Students in the Olders Group range in age from fifteen to eighteen; the usual number of enrollees is around 18.

Our goal is to tailor the classes and the overall approach to the needs, interests and goals of each student. Students are expected to gain as much benefit from this small setting as they possibly can. The possibilities are almost limitless. Students can choose regularly scheduled classes; they can work in small groups; they can take online courses; they can design and pursue independent studies; they can enter mentoring relationships in the community which result in academic credit; they can, in so many ways, soar...

Curriculum planning begins with assessment. This is done during Orientation Week in the beginning of the school year. Students who enroll later than September will have assessment included in their enrollment process. Once we know the skills, challenges and interests of our students, we create a “Grand Schedule.” It includes the core academic areas: Math, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. It also reaches beyond fundamental knowledge and skills to problem solving; critical thinking; independent work, cultural literacy, research, community service, and play. Field trips are also an important part of the Clonlara curriculum: every student gets to know the Ann Arbor community and explore its recreational, academic and cultural resources.

The Olders also include Morning Meetings in their daily schedule. This is a formum for sharing ideas, hearing news, airing grievances, solving problems and planning. Students often facilitate the meetings.