In the 1970s, my brother introduced my husband and me to the enchanting town of Eureka Springs. Little did we know that this introduction would lead us to an extraordinary educational journey through our association with Clear Spring School (CSS). Meeting the founders, Will Fulton and Molly Seeligson, both dedicated educators, marked the beginning of our unique venture into the realm of education.
Upon relocating to Eureka Springs, I found myself teaching preschool at CSS, becoming an integral part of the school’s warm and welcoming “family.” The connection deepened as my nephew attended the school. We served on the board and volunteered, eventually choosing CSS for our children, Andrew and Clare. Rick, my husband, continued his involvement with the board, focusing on landscaping projects and the expansion of school facilities.
From preschool to eighth grade, Andrew and Clare’s CSS journey provided a holistic education that stood out from our prior experiences. The school’s emphasis on the “whole” person was evident as education transcended the classroom and seamlessly integrated into the community. Events like the Trashathon, Fall Harvest Festivals, plays, Singing Valentines, and various fundraisers instilled values of good citizenship, teamwork, goal-setting, friendship, and making a difference.
One aspect that particularly resonated with me was the concept of “conflict resolution,” teaching children to use their minds and words to solve problems—a valuable skill for a lifetime. CSS’s commitment to unique experiences extended to camping trips and travels within and beyond Arkansas, fostering confidence, exploration, and an understanding of diverse ways of life. Thanks to creative teachers, mentors, and volunteer parents, CSS truly embodied the saying, “It takes a village!”
The school’s ability to build confidence, encourage exploration, and foster connections among students and their communities sets it apart. Incorporating the fundamentals of learning into engaging lessons, CSS shared the value of global awareness, our bond with nature, and the importance of everyday life skills to enhance intellectual pursuits.
As Clear Spring School celebrates its fiftieth anniversary, my family extends heartfelt congratulations. Over the decades, CSS has evolved to meet children’s needs, excelling in lifelong, heart-engaged learning. The success stories of my children, Andrew and Clare, who pursued diverse paths after CSS, exemplify the enduring impact of this exceptional institution on its students.
Andrew McCormick’s Bio: After graduating from Eureka Springs High School, Andrew pursued higher education, earning degrees from Hendrix College, Columbia Law School, and the London School of Economics. He is currently serving as the General Counsel of Black Rifle Coffee, a public benefit corporation focused on employing and serving GWOT-era veterans.
Clare McCormick’s Bio: Following graduation from Eureka Springs High School, Clare earned a fine arts degree from the University of Virginia and studied scenic painting and set design at the Yale School of Drama. Now an interior designer in Los Angeles, Clare specializes in concept-based hospitality design. She cultivates a small ceramics practice in her neighborhood during her off-hours.
Clear Spring School is proud to announce that after being featured in the Eureka Springs Independent, this story, along with many others from alumni, parents, teachers, and staff, will be included in our Fiftieth Anniversary Anthology, The Miracle in the Woods, set to be released in October 2024.