🚨 Sabot School will remain closed on Thursday, February 20, due to the ongoing inclement weather.

🚨Sabot School will be closed Wednesday, February 19, due to predicted winter weather. We will continue to monitor the forecast and will notify families by Wednesday evening if there are any changes to school on Thursday.

Last year, the children in Kindergarten launched a school-wide mail project inspired by our Umbrella Theme, "Movement", and for many grades, it's still going strong! Recently, the preschoolers in the Rainbow Room decided that each student should have their own mailbox, leading them to spend time crafting thoughtful notes for one another and their teachers. This budding interest in communication didn’t stop there! The children’s excitement for notes blossomed into a fascination with bookmaking. They’ve been practicing their letters, experimenting with watercolor painting, and exploring various techniques for binding their own books. #Kindergarten #Preschool #ReggioEmilia #ReggioInspired #ReggioEmiliaPreschool #ReggioEmiliaApproach #RichmondPreschool #RichmondEarlyLearning #Movement #CreativeLearning #Bookmaking #StudentCreativity #ClassroomCommunity #HandsOnLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #LearningThroughPlay #RichmondEducation

Earlier this year, local author and VCU professor SJ Sindu (author of the graphic novel Shakti) visited our Middle Schoolers to share her journey as a writer and discuss the creative process. Her visit was part of our Maker-Speakers series, a program that connects students with local creators, artisans, and innovators. These visits complement the middle school curriculum, which includes quarterly independent study projects called "Exploratory" (or "Explo"). By meeting and learning from working makers like Sindu, students see the creative process in action and gain practical insights into pursuing their own ideas and projects. A huge thank you to @sjsindu for coming and sharing with our students! #ReggioMiddleSchool #MakerSpeakers #SJSindu #Shakti #CreativeProcess #InspirationThroughLearning #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ProgressiveEducation #VCU #VCUCreativeWriting #IndependentProjects #ExplorationLearning #MiddleSchoolEducation #LifelongLearning #LocalAuthors #GraphicNovels #CreativeThinking #HandsOnLearning #CuriosityDrivenLearning #StudentProjects #LearningThroughMaking #ArtisansAndInnovators #CreativityInEducation #BuildingConnections #VCUFaculty #MiddleSchoolCuriosity

A love story for the ages: Q & U, together forever. 💕 Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us at Sabot School! #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioInspired #ReggioKindergarten #ProgressiveEducation #InquiryBasedLearning #PlayBasedLearning #JoyfulLearning #ChildLedLearning #HandsOnLearning #EmergentCurriculum #ExperientialLearning #CollaborativeLearning #HolisticEducation #KindergartenLiteracy #EarlyLiteracy #PhonicsFun #BlendingSounds

We hope you join us at our next Sabot Session on Wednesday, Feb 19, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.! This event is open to all current and applying families. Sabot Sessions are quarterly opportunities for our community to explore topics that matter most to our families. Next week, we’re excited to present our third session, Reggio in Action. During this session, Teacher-Researcher Melanie Nan will lead an interactive workshop where you'll get a firsthand experience of the learning your child engages in every day through the Reggio Emilia Approach®. It’s a unique chance to step into your child’s world and see this approach in action. #SabotSessions #ReggioInAction #ReggioEmiliaApproach #LifelongLearning #EngagedLearning #CommunityEngagement #ProgressiveEducation #ParentEngagement #LearningTogether #SabotSchool #RichmondVA #EducationMatters #ReggioInspired

In our classrooms, we share stories that reflect the richness of the world around us. One way we celebrate the voices and contributions of African Americans is by reading books written by contemporary African American authors. These stories invite our students into authentic learning experiences, where they engage with perspectives that are vital, real, and inspiring. By honoring diverse voices, we create a space where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered. #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioElementarySchool #DiverseBooks #InclusiveEducation #BlackHistoryMonth #CelebratingDiversity #RichmondVA #LearningThroughStories #CommunityOfBelonging #CulturalAwareness #EquityInEducation #Nature

"Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt." — John Muir Life is too short to stay on a beaten path. At Sabot, our children explore, climb, splash, and dig, finding joy in the freedom of nature. They are brave explorers, critical thinkers, and resilient problem-solvers, forging their own paths and discovering the world around them with wonder and curiosity. This is what school should be. #ReggioEmiliaApproach #NatureBasedLearning #ProgressiveEducation #OutdoorLearning #ReggioInAction #LearningThroughPlay #NatureExploration #SabotSchool #RichmondEducation #ReggioInspired #ChildLedLearning #HandsOnLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #OutdoorClassroom #LearningInNature #ExplorationAndDiscovery #ActiveLearning #BuildingCuriosity #RichmondSchools #GrowingThroughNature #ReggioPreschool

Dear Sabot Families, Re-enrollment is due today! Sabot is more than a school—it’s a place where your children are known, their voices heard, and their ideas valued. We can’t wait for another year together! #SabotSchool #ReEnrollment #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioSchool #ProgressiveEducation #RichmondVA #RVA #RichmondIndependentSchools #ReggioInspired #LifelongLearning #JoyfulLearning #WholeChildEducation #NatureBasedLearning #LearningThroughPlay #CuriosityDriven #ChildCenteredEducation #ExperientialLearning #HandsOnLearning #DeepLearning #IndependentSchool #SmallClassSizes #CreativeThinkers #CriticalThinking #Collaboration #CommunityOfLearners #EducationForTheFuture

A Sabot moment shared by one of our parents that perfectly captures the magic of our approach to learning. A few weeks ago, 6th Grader Riker excitedly shared his reflections on the Revolutionary War after reading multiple books on the topic. What started as a curiosity about the conflict’s early stages led him to a deeper question: Who “should” have won, and how do the stories we tell shape our understanding of history? This moment highlights the beauty of the Reggio Emilia Approach® at Sabot: student-driven inquiry, deep engagement with topics from multiple perspectives, and a classroom culture where questions are just as important as answers. Riker’s journey—reading 300+ pages of nonfiction, reflecting on multiple narratives, and feeling excited to engage with his classmates—shows how powerful it is when learning is driven by curiosity and personal connection. This is the kind of environment we strive for every day at Sabot: a place where students feel seen, heard, and supported in their intellectual journeys. #SabotSchool #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioMiddleSchool #LifelongLearning #StudentDrivenInquiry #ProgressiveEducation #DeepLearning #HistoryThroughInquiry #CuriosityDrivenLearning #LearningThroughReflection #StudentCenteredEducation #ReggioInspired #MiddleSchoolMagic #EngagedLearners #RichmondSchools #JoyfulLearning #CriticalThinkingSkills #ClassroomCulture #EducationForTheFuture #ReggioInspiration #LearningThatMatters

Did you know that Philly Vegan, a local Southside restaurant, is owned by the family of Samuel (Grade 1) and JahZaRa (Kindergarten)? This family-owned, plant-based restaurant’s mission is to “spread love through our food,” and we wanted to take a moment to highlight the amazing work that they are doing for the Richmond community. The restaurant typically offers a “pay-what-you-can” menu once per month. In the wake of the water crisis, owners Samuel, Celicia, and Ratha extended this menu to ensure no one went without a hot meal. Their generosity and dedication to helping others, especially during challenging times, is truly inspiring. We are so glad to have them as part of our Sabot family! Click the [ 🔗 link in bio] to read about their extraordinary work. #PhillyVegan #FamilyOwnedBusiness #PlantBasedEats #PayWhatYouCan #CommunitySupport #RichmondVA #RVACommunity #SupportLocal #VeganRichmond #VeganCommunity #VeganEats #VeganLife #VeganFoodies #VeganRichmondVA #SabotFamilies #SabotSpotlight #GivingBack https://tinyurl.com/PhillyVegan

🌟 School Counselor Spotlight: Ann Reavey 🌟 This week, we celebrate National School Counseling Week by shining a special light on Ann Reavey, who has been supporting Sabot students for 14 years with warmth, wisdom, and deep care. Ann believes that truly listening to another person's experience has the power to change the world, one conversation at a time. She brings this belief into her work every day, creating a space where children feel heard, valued, and understood. Beyond Sabot, Ann enjoys knitting, hiking, baking, and traveling—especially when it takes her somewhere magical, like Ghibli Park in Japan! Ann, your kindness, empathy, and unwavering dedication make such a difference in our community. We are so grateful for you! ❤️ #SchoolCounselorWeek #ThankYouCounselors #ReggioEmiliaApproach #schoolcounselorweek #schoolcounselor #ReggioInspired #ReggioEducation #WholeChildEducation #ListeningMatters #SabotCommunity #SabotSchool #RichmondVA #RVAParents #RVAEducation

Yesterday, we had a surprise fire alarm (Don’t worry—no fire!). Our friendly firemen rushed to the scene, and our students loved meeting them and learning all about their important work. Amira even got to sit in the driver’s seat! Thank you @richmondfiredept for all you do! 🚒 #FireSafety #CommunityHelpers #SabotSchool #ReggioEmiliaApproach #RichmondVA #RVACommunity #RichmondFireDept

8th Grader Grayson L. is leading his 6th annual Food Drive for Feed More, an organization dedicated to hunger relief across Central Virginia. This year, Grayson’s goal is to collect 400 lbs of non-perishable food items! You can help by donating items like nut butters, canned protein, pasta, tomato products, soups, vegetables, olive oil, beans, lentils, fruits, and spices. Donation boxes are set up on campus—one near Mary’s desk in Honor Hall and one near Mabrey’s desk in the Main House. Let’s support Grayson’s initiative and help fight hunger in our community! #CommunityService #StudentInitiative #FeedMore #FoodDrive #HungerRelief #CentralVirginia #SabotSchool #MakingADifference #GiveBack #SupportLocal #RVACommunity #RVAKids #EndHunger #NeighborsHelpingNeighbors #RVAEvents #DonateFood #YouthLeadership

The energy in The Nest is palpable these days! ⚡⚡⚡ #RichmondPreschool #PreschoolLife #EarlyChildhoodEducation #RichmondMoms #RVAParents #RVAKids #PlayBasedLearning #ReggioInspired #RVAChildhood #LearningThroughPlay #RVAFamily #RichmondEducation #RVACommunity #PreschoolFun #RichmondKids #EarlyLearning #NestLife #RichmondVA

In Courtney’s Middle School Social Studies class, 7th and 8th graders are continuing to explore the power they hold as active citizens in our democracy. Inspired by Shirley Chisholm’s quote, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring your own chair,” students began the year by creating their own chairs to represent their values and beliefs. This activity set the tone for the important work they would be doing throughout the year to understand how democracy works —focusing on the role of government, civic participation, and the influence of media. As they continue to explore the complexities of our democratic system, they’re developing the tools to better understand and participate in shaping the future of our nation. You can read Courtney’s entire Article, “A Seat at the Table” by clicking the [🔗link in bio] #MiddleSchool #CivicEngagement #DemocracyInAction #StudentVoices #ActiveCitizenship #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioEmiliaMiddleSchool #PoliticalEducation #UnderstandingDemocracy #FutureLeaders #YouthEmpowerment #CivicParticipation #PoliticalAwareness #SocialStudies #SabotSchool #RichmondVA #MediaLiteracy #ElectoralProcess #InformedCitizens #ActiveLearners #ShapingTheFuture #SabotCommunity #EducationForDemocracy #RichmondMiddleSchool https://tinyurl.com/SabotSchool

Great news! The Mending Walls Screening & Artist Panel has been rescheduled to Friday, February 28, 2025, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. If you’ve already reserved a ticket, your space is secure. If you cannot attend the new date, email Jess at jkhawaja@sabotschool.org. To reserve a ticket or learn more, head to the [🔗link in bio] The evening will include a screening of the Emmy Award-winning documentary Mending Walls: A Healing Art Project by Hamilton Glass, followed by a panel discussion with local muralists on how art fosters empathy and unity. This pay-what-you-can event will raise funds for a Sabot workshop where students will work closely with Hamilton Glass to understand their role as makers in the community and create a collaborative mural to represent our beloved school. Attendance is limited to 100 people, ages 21 and older. Wine, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, and light hors d'oeuvres will be served. #RVA #RichmondVA #RVArts #RichmondMurals #ArtInRVA #RVAEvents #RVACommunity #MendingWallsRVA #SocialJusticeArt #ArtForChange #EquityThroughArt #CommunityHealing #ArtWithPurpose #MuralMovement #VCUArts #VirginiaMuseumOfHistory #VMFA #DocumentaryFilm #ArtAndActivism #CreativeConversations #PublicArtMatters #hamiltonglass @hamglass @mendingwallsrva @vcuarts @vmfa @richmondnews https://www.sabotschool.org/sabot-school-to-host-mending-walls-screening-artist-panel

One of the best things about going to school next to the 106 acres of Larus Park is the chance to spend time in nature year-round. Each week, students enjoy 'forest time,' an unstructured period where they can explore, play, and connect with the natural world on their own terms. This freedom to follow their curiosity often leads to big discoveries, like the one that inspired third grade’s latest project. Before the break, students in Grade 3 had been constructing dams and observing the dramatic release of water (fondly called a "tsunami") when the dam breaks. Some focus on building, others on the results, but everyone is captivated by the changes in the stream. In the Reggio Emilia approach, we view the environment as the third teacher. This means that the spaces where learning happens—whether a classroom or the outdoors—are more than just backdrops; they are active participants in education, sparking curiosity, shaping experiences, and offering countless opportunities for discovery. Guided by this philosophy, teachers Patrick and Myla leaned into the class’s shared fascination. Students were invited to notice what happens when the water flows freely, undisturbed by their activity. They observed that clear water allowed sediment to settle, while building and breaking dams stirred up murky currents.

The preschoolers in the Rainbow Room recently made their own PlayDoh, but they ran into a dilemma when they learned they couldn’t take the wet dough home. Instead of giving up, they put their heads together and came up with a plan: maybe leaving it out in the air would help it dry. After some reflection and investigation, they discovered their prediction was correct—the PlayDoh dried just as they hoped! #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioEmiliaPreschool #SabotSchool #PreschoolLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ChildLedInquiry #CreativeProblemSolving #LearningThroughPlay #HandsOnLearning #CuriosityDriven #PlayBasedLearning #RichmondVA #RichmondSchools #RichmondPreschool #RichmondEarlyLearning #PreschoolAdventures

The Village Project is an ongoing 5th-grade provocation that is now in full swing and will continue throughout the year. Each year, the class creates a unique "village" full of residents with real jobs, salaries, and responsibilities. While the project is an annual tradition, it always evolves based on the children’s interests, making each year different. The project begins with the creation of people, aka "peeps," who are the residents of the village. Each student develops a fully realized character, complete with a biography, family background, education, special skills, and a resume. Peeps then go on job interviews, applying for roles that align with their character's strengths and skills. The Village is a space where the group learns by doing. With both guidance and freedom, students test out ideas and reflect on the outcomes as a group. Along the way, they develop real-world skills, such as giving a professional handshake and responding professionally in a job interview, while also learning how to address community issues, draft legislation, and refine their village’s rules. Since the project has so many facets, there are areas where each class member can be a leader and help others, and areas where each class member will need help from a peer. When each class member is both a giver and a receiver of help, it not only builds the peep society but also strengthens the community within our group of humans. #ReggioEmiliaApproach #InquiryBasedLearning #ConstructivistEducation #ProgressiveEducation #HandsOnLearning #ExperientialLearning #StudentCenteredLearning #ProjectBasedLearning #LearningThroughPlay #ActiveLearning #CreativePedagogy #CollaborativeLearning #SocialEmotionalLearning #AuthenticLearning #ChildLedLearning #CriticalThinkingSkills #EmpathyInEducation #HolisticEducation #CuriosityDriven #LearningThroughDiscovery #InquiryDriven #EducatingTheWholeChild #TransformativeEducation

Early in the year, the three-year-olds in the Burrow adopted some pet beetles. When one of the beetles passed away, the children responded with care and empathy, deciding to hold a funeral. As a school that uses the Reggio-Emilia Approach™, we follow the children’s ideas, guiding their learning based on their interests. Teachers Eliese and Audrey saw this as an opportunity to discuss challenging topics, encouraging the children to respond authentically. Together, they read The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown, created artwork as offerings, and joined a musical procession led by Atelierista Jāna to honor their small friend. This thoughtful moment reflects the empathy nurtured in Sabot classrooms. By caring for even the smallest creatures, children learn respect for the natural world and their role within it. #ReggioEmilia #ReggioInspired #PreschoolLearning #RichmondPreschools #EarlyChildhoodEducation #LearningThroughPlay #ChildCenteredLearning #RVAKids #RichmondCommunity #ProgressiveEducation #EmpathyInEducation #HandsOnLearning #RichmondSchools

Kindergarteners in Amy and Jake’s class have been learning about 2D and 3D shapes and recently had the chance to experiment with marshmallows and toothpicks to see how many shapes they could create. 🔵 🔶 🔺 In inquiry-based classrooms like ours, teachers leave the door open for exploration, allowing children to take the lead in their learning. As they built familiar shapes, the children began to experiment and create their own. Leaning into their discoveries sparked rich conversations and questions: 💬 “What is a shape that has seven sides?” 💬 “I made a pyramid, which has a square at the bottom!” 💬 “Look, a square can become a diamond.” 💬 “I noticed three triangles can make a trapezoid.” #SabotSchool #KindergartenLearning #ReggioInspired #InquiryBasedLearning #HandsOnLearning #CreativeClassrooms #ChildLedLearning #CuriosityDriven #MathExploration #2DShapes #3DShapes #ProgressiveEducation #RichmondSchools #MarshmallowMath

Yesterday, members of our community came together to assemble Cold Weather Kits for Blessings Warriors, a small, volunteer-led nonprofit that provides food, clothing, and other resources to meet the basic needs of Richmond’s unsheltered community. This schoolwide service project, organized by Parents@Sabot, reflects the spirit of service and compassion that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. championed. As we honor his legacy, we are reminded that each of us has the power to make a positive impact on our community and help those in need. Thank you to everyone who came out, everyone who donated, P@S for organizing this project, and a special thank you to Pam (the Grandmother of Solace S) for knitting 10 hats to donate! #CommunityService #MLKDay #SabotStrong #GivingBack #BlessingsWarriors #RichmondCommunity #ServiceToOthers #ParentVolunteers #SocialJustice #CompassionInAction #TogetherWeCan #RichmondVA #MakingADifference

We hope you will join us on Monday, January 20, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for our annual Schoolwide Service Project organized by Parents@Sabot. This year, families will come together to assemble cold weather kits for Blessing Warriors, a small, volunteer-led nonprofit that provides food, clothing, and other resources to meet the basic needs of Richmond’s unsheltered community. If you plan to join us on Monday, please sign up via the link in your P@S newsletter so we can get a rough head count. Can’t make it to campus on MLK Day? A donation box will be available in Founders Hall. Drop off new adult- and/or child-sized socks, gloves, and hand warmers between Wednesday and Friday. Every warm item helps! For more details or to sign up, check the most recent Parents@Sabot newsletter. We hope to see you there! #MLKDay #DayOfService #CommunityGiving #SabotSchool #ParentsAtSabot #BlessingWarriors #Volunteer #RichmondVA #ColdWeatherKits #GivingBack #UnshelteredCommunity #FamilyService #MakingADifference #GlovesAndSocks #WarmHeartsWarmHands

Our campus turned into a snowy wonderland this week! 4th graders made the most of it, sledding down the hill with some creative, makeshift sleds. ❄️ #SabotSchool #SnowDay #RichmondSchools #RVAEducation #RichmondPrivateSchools #ReggioInspired #RVASchools #RVACommunity #OutdoorLearning #ProgressiveEducation #RichmondKids #LearningThroughPlay

The Winter Sessions of Beyond the Classroom (BTC) are up and running! Missed your chance to sign up? There are still a few spots available in classes like ⚽ Soccer Shots, 🎨 Art, 🧱 Legos, Myths & Magic 🪄, and more! Registration will remain open until classes are full. Sign up through your Veracross Parent Portal. #SabotSchool #BeyondTheClassroom #CreativeLearning #RichmondVA #RichmondExtracurriculars #SoccerShots #RichmondSoccer #AfterSchoolAdventures #ExplorationThroughPlay

And we're back! There’s nothing like the sound of music and laughter to remind us why being together matters so much. Here’s to a joyful return and a week full of connection! 🔊 Better with sound! #BackToSchool #CommunityJoy #MusicAndLaughter #SabotSchool #PreschoolMagic #LearningThroughPlay #TogetherAgain #SchoolCommunity #ReggioInspired #EarlyChildhoodEducation #SabotStrong #FamilyAndLearning #LaughterIsContagious #SoundUpForJoy

The paperwhite bulbs that students brought home in December have been quietly growing over our extended winter break. With care and patience, they’ve grown tall and strong. Now crowned with delicate white blooms, they serve as a gentle reminder that the rhythm of school is ready to begin again. 🌱❄️ After last week’s unexpected closures, we’re looking forward to seeing our campus once again filled with laughter and discovery. Thank you all for your patience and understanding as we navigated the challenges of last week. We hope your family stayed warm and safe, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back tomorrow at the regular times. 💚 #SabotSchool #PaperwhiteBlooms #WinterBreakGrowth #ReggioInspired #SnowDay #WelcomeBackStudents #CommunityAndConnection #LearningInEverySeason #RichmondVA #ProgressiveEducation #sabottraditions #wintertraditions

The Mending Walls screening and artist panel, scheduled for Friday evening, has been postponed. The unpredictability of the ongoing water crisis, which affects our campus, and possible inclement weather Friday evening are factors. We are working with the artists to find another date. Your reservations will, of course, be honored. If you have already reserved tickets, be on the lookout for an email from Jess with more details. We are looking forward to being in community with you all and the artists of Mending Wall in the near future! @hamglass @mendingwallsrva @vcuarts @richmondmag @vmfamuseum

The last week of school before winter break is always filled with excitement and energy, a little bit of craziness, and a lot of fun. We hope everyone enjoys some rest, relaxation, and togetherness this holiday season. ❄ There is no school tomorrow; We look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, January 6. Wishing you peace and joy this season from all of us at Sabot School! 🕊 #SabotSchool #WinterBreak #togetherness #sabotcommunity #RestAndRecharge #HappyHolidays #WinterSeason #PeaceAndJoy

🌟 Alumni Spotlight: Emerson Rose 🌟 Sabot graduate Emerson Rose ('20) returned to campus yesterday to share his passion for music with first graders in Hannah and Catherine's class! 🎹 Building on the children’s interest in musical instruments, Emerson demonstrated how a piano works, shared his journey as a musician, and led the students in exercises to explore how different sounds and melodies affect their minds and bodies. Emerson is now a freshman at VCU, studying Jazz Piano—but many of our Sabot faculty fondly remember him from his days in Preschool! We loved having him back on campus! #SabotAlumni #SabotSpotlight #SabotSchool #MusicEducation #JazzPiano #VCUMusic #VCUJazzPiano #VCUArts #MusicAtVCU #ReggioMusic #ReggioInspiredMusic #ReggioEmiliaMusic

This week and last, preschoolers are diving into the 🎨 "Watercolor Painting" 🎨 sessions with Tricia. These one-day Beyond The Classroom (BTC) pop-ups invite children to experiment with familiar materials like paints and brushes alongside unexpected tools like straws and crayons. The child-led sessions encourage curiosity and discovery —some are exploring traditional watercolor techniques, while others are inventing their own approaches. We love to see them experimenting, evaluating, and finding joy in creating something uniquely their own. #BeyondTheClassroom #WatercolorPainting #PreschoolArt #ChildLedLearning #CreativeExpression #ReggioEmiliaApproach #HandsOnLearning #ArtExploration #ProcessOverProduct #ExperimentAndDiscover #SabotSchool #RichmondVA #EarlyChildhoodEducation

Thank you to everyone who came together last Friday for Winter Night. This cherished tradition reminds us of the importance of gathering as a community, especially during the darker days of the season. We’re so grateful to have you as part of our Sabot family. #WinterNight #SabotSchool #CommunityTraditions #SeasonOfLight #TogetherWeThrive #ReggioInspired #SchoolCommunity #CherishedMoments #SimpleTraditions #ConnectionAndBelonging #HeartOfSabot #RichmondSchools

When first grade asks if they can learn about more musical instruments, we enthusiastically say YES! Thank you to Brian Erbe from Greater Richmond Pipe and Drums for visiting and sharing the art of bagpiping with our budding musicians. Leaning into children’s interests can sometimes take us in unexpected directions, but those moments often spark the most curiosity, joy, and meaningful learning. #SabotSchool #BagpipesInTheClassroom #GreaterRichmondPD #BuddingMusicians #ReggioInspired #ChildLedLearning #RVACommunity #HandsOnLearning #MusicEducation #FollowTheChild #CuriosityDriven #UnexpectedLearningJourneys #CreativeClassrooms #RVASchools #InspiringYoungMinds #SabotSpirit #RichmondVA #MusicalExploration #ArtOfBagpiping #LoveOfLearning

Tomorrow is Winter Night, and our middle school students are organizing a special raffle to support the Jamie Lahy Fund. Tickets are $7 for one or $10 for two and can be purchased with cash or Venmo at the event. The winner will take home a cozy gift basket valued at $330, featuring a hand-crocheted dragon and a hand-tied fleece blanket made by our students, a Sabot tote bag, treats from our Beyond the Classroom students, and goodies from local businesses. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the Jamie Lahy Fund, which honors Jamie’s legacy by providing opportunities for Sabot students to pursue passions, take risks, think critically, and develop their identities—hallmarks of a Sabot education that Jamie championed so well. If you can’t attend Winter Night but would still like to donate, you can do so through the [🔗 link in bio] #SabotSchool #JamieLahyFund #WinterNight #CommunitySupport #StudentLeadership #RVAEvents #SupportEducation #SabotStudents #RVASchools #FundraisingForGood #MiddleSchoolMatters #LegacyOfLearning #CozyBasketRaffle #RVACommunity #EducationForAll #SabotSpirit #SupportLocalBusinesses #RVAFundraiser #PassionAndPurpose https://tinyurl.com/uvaty9v6

A few weeks ago, Virginia and Theo in the Forest Room began a collaborative project using drawings, tape, and mixed media. As the artwork grew, other children joined in, contributing their ideas and adding paper airplanes to the creation. Virginia was insistent—it was going to fly! After learning about murals, the young architects decided to move their evolving masterpiece to an easel, where it now proudly hangs in the hall. And the name they chose? “Heli-Colorful.” As Reggio-inspired educators, we create spaces where children’s ideas can take flight, both literally and figuratively. We believe in fostering collaboration and honoring their unique visions. While some may see papers taped to a board, we - and the children - see something much more significant: a shared creation that represents their imagination, passion, and pride. #ReggioEmilia #ReggioInspired #ChildLedLearning #ForestRoom #CollaborativeCreativity #EarlyChildhoodEducation #HandsOnLearning #StudentDrivenProjects #ImaginationInAction #CreativeExpression #ArtInEducation #PlayBasedLearning #InquiryBasedLearning #MakingLearningVisible #ChildhoodUnfolded #SabotSchool #RichmondPreschools #PreschoolInRichmond #EarlyLearningRichmond #RichmondKids #RVAFamilies #RVAParents #RichmondEducation

Please join us on January 10, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., for an evening with acclaimed artist Hamilton Glass and local muralists as they present their Emmy Award-winning documentary, Mending Walls: A Healing Art Project Attendance is limited to 100 people, aged 21+ RSVP here: https://www.sabotschool.org/sabot-school-to-host-mending-walls-screening-artist-panel The event will be held at Sabot School and is open to the entire Richmond community. This “pay what you can” event will raise funds to support a Sabot School student workshop led by Glass, where students will learn about the Mending Walls project and processes and create a collaborative mural. Following the screening, engage in a panel discussion with the artists as they explore the role of art in healing and uniting communities. Wine, beer, and light hors d'oeuvres will be served in an adults-only setting, offering a reflective space to engage with the power of art to create change. The concept for Mending Walls began in May of 2020 in response to the citizens of Richmond, Virginia taking to the streets to protest racial inequality, police brutality and the monuments to Confederate generals. Artist, Hamilton Glass, brought together artists from different cultural backgrounds to use collaborative art as a provocation; inviting dialogue and storytelling to bridge societal divides and foster greater empathy in the Richmond community. #RVA #RichmondVA #RVArts #RichmondMurals #ArtInRVA #RVAEvents #RVACommunity #MendingWallsRVA #SocialJusticeArt #ArtForChange #EquityThroughArt #CommunityHealing #ArtWithPurpose #MuralMovement #VCUArts #VirginiaMuseumOfHistory #VMFA #DocumentaryFilm #ArtAndActivism #CreativeConversations #PublicArtMatters #hamiltonglass www.sabotschool.org

We’re excited to announce several opportunities to join our team. We’re looking for a Resource Teacher, Extended Day Teacher, Extended Day Substitute Teacher, and Substitute Teacher. These roles are a wonderful way to spend time with children in a supportive and creative learning environment. Whether you're seeking regular hours or a more flexible schedule, Sabot offers meaningful opportunities to make an impact. Substitute positions, in particular, are perfect for adults in your life—like retirees or grandparents—who may be seeking a flexible, low-commitment way to stay active and spend time with kids. Our Extended Day positions are also ideal for college students aged 21 and older who are looking to gain experience in education. Learn more and apply by heading to our website: www.sabotschool.org/careers Know someone who’d be a great fit? Help us spread the word! ##RichmondJobs #NowHiring #SabotSchool #TeachingJobs #EducationJobs #RichmondEducation #RichmondTeachers #RVAJobs #RichmondVA #TeacherLife #SubstituteTeacherJobs #ExtendedDayPositions #ResourceTeacher #ProgressiveEducation #WorkWithKids #JobsInRichmondVA #RichmondCareers #AfterSchoolJobs #TeachInRVA #ChildLedLearning #StudentCentered #TeacherNetwork #EducationCareers #EdJobs #JoinOurTeam https://www.sabotschool.org/careers

This week in Middle School advisory, students are crafting candles for Winter Night, continuing a tradition that began more than 20 years ago. It started in the preschool, where children would warm colorful beeswax in their hands, exploring its texture before using it to decorate a candle—a gift for their families during the darkest season of the year. As Sabot has grown, this tradition has grown with us, becoming an integral part of Winter Night. Today, the event brings the whole school community together in a celebration of light, with luminaria lighting the walkways, lantern-making workshops, and winter stories by the glowing fireplaces in the Main House. Winter Night reflects both the strength of our traditions and how they evolve as we grow. We look forward to sharing this special evening with all of you! #SabotSchool #WinterNight #RichmondVA #RVAcommunity #RVAevents #RichmondEducation #ReggioInspired #BeeswaxCandles #Luminaria #LanternMaking #WinterTraditions #LightInTheDarkness #RVAfamilies #RichmondSchools #CommunityConnections #ExploreRichmond #RVAkids #RichmondCulture

Happy Monday from our smiling (and frigid!) kindergarteners! We are excited for the temperatures to warm up this week, and even more excited for Winter Night this Friday! We hope to see you there ❄️🕯️

Beyond the Classroom (BTC) Winter Pop-Ups are underway! Here, BTC teacher Elize leads her group in making a variety of chocolate, winter-themed treats. What a fun way to end the school day! #BeyondTheClassroom #SabotSchool #WinterFun #ChocolateTreats #AfterschoolActivities #CreativeKids #LearningThroughPlay #WinterPopUps #ReggioEmiliaInspired #HandsOnLearning #SweetLearning #CommunityConnections #FunAtSabot

We’re thrilled to announce the Anna Golden Grants, a new initiative honoring Anna Golden’s extraordinary 30-year legacy at Sabot School. Anna’s work as a teacher-researcher and atelierista shaped the heart of Sabot, bringing the Reggio Emilia Approach® to life in ways that continue to inspire our community. Thanks to a generous $20,000 gift from an anonymous donor, these grants will support Sabot teachers in pursuing learning experiences that deepen their practice and creativity. In true Sabot spirit, recipients will share their discoveries with the entire faculty, extending the impact of this incredible gift. We are so grateful to the donor for celebrating Anna’s legacy and supporting the ongoing work of our talented educators. #ReggioEmilia #ReggioInspired #Atelierista #TeacherResearchers #ProgressiveEducation #CreativeLearning #ChildCenteredEducation #EmpoweringTeachers #LifelongLearning #AnnaGoldenGrants #EducationInnovation #CommunitySupport #SabotSchool #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ArtAndEducation #TeacherDevelopment #ReggioApproach #ListeningToChildren #InspiringEducators

Winter Night is coming up on Friday, December 13, 2024! 🕯 (Rain date: Thursday, December 19) Winter Night is a cherished annual Sabot tradition celebrating warmth, light, and community. We invite all current families to join us for winter stories by the fire, a variety of seasonal activities, and, of course, meaningful time spent connecting with other Sabot families. The evening will culminate in singing songs of light together as we reflect on the season and the joy of gathering as a community. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and concludes at 7:00 p.m. We hope your family can join us for this magical celebration. Don’t forget to check your email for the lyrics to our Winter Night songs! Note: We are collecting pinecones to make bird feeders for Winter Night! If you have any to donate, please drop them in the boxes located at the entrances to the Main House and Honor Hall. Thank you in advance! BYOHDAS: Bring your own hot drinks and snacks! #WinterNight #SabotSchool #HolidayTraditions #CommunityGathering #LanternMaking #WinterCelebration #GilletteGarden #SongsOfLight #FamilyEvent #WinterStories #SeasonOfGiving #MakingMemories #SabotMagic #CelebrateTogether #HolidaySeason #WinterFun #RichmondVA #WinterFestivities #WinterCommunity #SabotEvents

A little warmth for this frigid Tuesday... Our Community Garden is a magical place 🌻🥕🐝🌱 Here are a few throwbacks to this past September, when Amy’s kindergarteners picked carrots and used them for observational drawings. Our children love working with Kerry and watching things grow! #getouside #SabotSchool #CommunityGarden #ReggioEmilia #ReggioInspired #HandsOnLearning #NatureBasedLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #RichmondVA #LearningThroughNature #ObservationSkills #GardenExploration #KindergartenAdventures #ProgressiveEducation #GrowingTogether #STEMInNature #OutdoorClassroom #LearningWithJoy #WatchUsGrow #ExploreAndLearn #RichmondEducation

The friendships made at Sabot last a lifetime 💚 🌿 If you’re interested in being part of our Small School for Big Change, now’s a great time to apply! While we accept applications all year, priority is given to those submitted by January 1st. We are accepting applications for students aged 2 through 8th Grade. By applying early, you ensure your family has the best chance to join Sabot’s unique learning community—one that values curiosity, collaboration, and creativity at every age. Find out more about what makes Sabot so special, and start your journey with us today! Click the [🔗 link in bio] to learn more! #SabotSchool #SmallSchoolBigChange #ProgressiveEducation #ReggioEmilia #ReggioInspired #ChildCenteredLearning #CuriosityAndJoy #HandsOnLearning #RichmondEducation #RichmondSchools #ApplyNow #Admissions2024 #LearningThroughPlay #CreativeClassrooms #ExplorationAndDiscovery #WholeChildEducation #CommunityOfLearners #RichmondFamilies #EducationalJourney #STEMAndTheArts #JoyfulLearning https://www.sabotschool.org/explore-sabot

Join us next Wednesday, December 4, for our second Sabot Session, where Associate Head of Academics, Carol-Margaret Bitner, will speak on "The Reggio Emilia Approach at Sabot." This event is open to all current families, and we hope you will join us to learn more about our inquiry-based pedagogy. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. in Founders Hall. #ReggioEmilia #ProgressiveEducation #RichmondVA #ChildCenteredLearning #InquiryBasedLearning #HandsOnLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #PrimarySchoolEducation #MiddleSchoolEducation #CuriosityDriven #LoveOfLearning #RichmondEducation #SabotSchool #ReggioInspired #EducationForTheFuture #LearningThroughPlay #SchoolCommunity #ExploreAndLearn #GrowWithUs #SmallSchoolBigChange #SabotStrong #RichmondFamilies #EducationalExcellence #AdmissionsOpen

We loved seeing all our grandparents & special friends yesterday! 💚 #GPSF #GPSFD #sabotschool #sabotfamilies #sabotgrandparents #sabotgpsf #community #richmondcommunity #thankful

Wishing your families a joyful holiday filled with gratitude, love, and togetherness. This time of year serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of community and the many blessings we share. We are truly grateful for each and every member of the Sabot family. 🦃🍁🍽 Please note that the school will be closed next week, but we can’t wait to welcome your children back on Monday, December 2. Enjoy this special time with your loved ones! #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #Community #Family #Thankful #SabotSchool #Togetherness #HolidaySeason #JoyfulCelebrations #ThanksgivingBreak #SabotFamily

A question in a Reggio Emilia classroom isn’t just a question—it’s an invitation to investigate, discuss, and co-construct knowledge. When a student in Jen and Hannah's 2nd grade asked about timelines, it led to a full class inquiry into how we measure time. Together, they explored BC/AD and BCE/CE systems, discussing why some people may choose one over the other. This sparked a long list of questions the students wanted to research, including 'When did Amelia Earhart’s plane crash?' and 'When did the Ice Age end?' Each student selected a question and chose the best research method, from nonfiction books to interviews. The project is now underway, with students following their interests and digging into the answers. Click the [ 🔗 link in bio] to learn more about our progressive, child-led approach to learning! https://www.sabotschool.org/explore-our-approach #ProgressiveEducation #ReggioEmilia #OutdoorLearning #ChildDevelopment #EducationMatters #RichmondVA #RVAParents #RVAeducation #ExploreRVA #FamilyEngagement #CommunityFirst #Admissions2024 #LearnThroughPlay #InquiryBasedLearning #Timelines #StudentInquiry #SecondGradeLearning #QuestionsLeadToDiscovery #ChildLedLearning

Our youngest two-year-olds in the Nest are diving into sensory play, exploring the texture of sand on top of a light box! ✨ Teachers Maddie and Honey share more about the experience: "The children have explored sensory setups with mung beans, pom-poms, rice, shaving cream, water, kinetic sand, and more. When we set the sand on the light table, Honey and I wondered what the kids would notice as they moved the sand around. Would they notice the light shining through? Would the light add a new element that enhances the sensory experience? It seemed like it did! The children who were scooping and moving the sand tended to stay at the table longer than with other sensory provocations. As the weather gets colder and darker, we have wonderful opportunities to explore light more with the Nest kids through shadow play, using the light table, projectors, and more. We're excited to see what they discover!" #SensoryPlay #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ReggioInspired #PreschoolAdventures #HandsOnLearning #SabotSchool #DiscoverSabot #AdmissionsSeason #PreschoolFun #LearningThroughPlay #LightAndShadow #CreativeExploration #NestAtSabot #InnovativeEducation #PreschoolLife #EnrollNow #PrivateSchoolVA #ExploreWithUs #richmondpreschool #richmondearlychildhoodeducation #richmondvirginia #rvapreschool

We’re thrilled to announce that Emma Ferek will be Sabot’s next Head of School! 🌟🎉 Emma comes to us from Allen Academy in Bryan, Texas, where she currently serves as Associate Head of School for Enrollment Management & Community Engagement. She has 16 years of experience in independent schools, both as a classroom teacher and an administrator. Emma brings a deep commitment to the Reggio Emilia Approach® to education, along with a well-developed skill set in operational leadership, growth, fundraising, and strategic management. Emma will officially join us on July 1, 2025, following a seamless transition with our Interim Head of School, Dave Menges. Dave has provided remarkable stability and a renewed sense of community; we are deeply grateful for his leadership as he continues this important work through June 30. In the coming months, Dave will work closely with Emma and the Transition Team to ensure a smooth handoff, with the shared goal of providing our children with the best possible education during this exciting new chapter. We extend heartfelt thanks to TEG, the Search Committee and its chairs, Grant and Micah, the Board of Directors, Dave, and the entire Sabot community for their dedication throughout this process. Please join us in welcoming Emma, her spouse Brett, and their children, Grace and David, to the Sabot community! Click the [🔗 link in bio] to read more about Emma and learn about the search process. #SabotSchool #WelcomeEmma #EducationalLeadership #ReggioInspired #IndependentSchools #RichmondVA #RVACommunity #RichmondEducation #PrivateSchoolVA #RVAParents #ReggioEducation #SabotCommunity #InnovativeEducation #LeadershipTransition #RVALife #theeducationgroup #teg https://www.sabotschool.org/head-of-school-search

8th Grade has launched their media literacy unit with a Field Study to Virginia Public Media (VPM), a public broadcasting organization based in Virginia that encompasses various media outlets, including television and radio stations dedicated to educational, cultural, and informational programming. During their visit, students explored the operations of a public media organization and learned about responsible media consumption. They engaged with professionals to gain insights into news production and the critical thinking skills necessary for navigating today's information landscape. This hands-on experience not only enhances their understanding of media but also empowers them to become informed consumers of information. #MediaLiteracy #VirginiaPublicMedia #VPM #PublicBroadcasting #CriticalThinking #Education #8thGrade #FieldStudy #LearningByDoing #ResponsibleMediaConsumption #FutureLeaders #CommunityEngagement #SabotSchool #ReggioEmilia #RichmondVA #sabotschool

Students in Hannah and Catherine’s first grade class are coming up with strategies to help each other climb the “big rock.” Our Sabot students are brave, resourceful, and kind—and never afraid to get a little dirty in the process! 🌿💪 #sabotschool #FirstGrade #Collaboration #Teamwork #SupportiveLearning #ClimbingTheBigRock #ChildDevelopment #CreativeProblemSolving #SabotSchool #RichmondVA #EmpoweringStudents #Community #GrowthMindset #natureschool #getoutside #kidsinnature #kidsbeingkids

GREAT NEWS! Sabot School has received an A+ ranking on Niche! 🏆 Our classrooms are different for a reason. We believe in fostering curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning that goes beyond the ordinary. From our progressive approach to education to our supportive, close-knit community, Sabot is where students thrive, both academically and as individuals. Thank you to our students, teachers, and families for making Sabot a special place to learn and grow! 💚 Click the [ 🔗 link in bio] to read the reviews. (And if you wanted to write a review, that would be awesome! 🙌)

When 3rd grade teachers Patrick and Myla noticed their class's obsession with paper airplanes ✈️, they seized the opportunity to dive into physics. The students have been conducting experiments on the four forces of flight: lift, thrust, drag, and gravity. This is just one example of how leaning into children's interests not only challenges them academically but also fosters a love of learning and builds their confidence. #SabotSchool #ReggioEmilia #ProgressiveEducation #RichmondSchools #STEMeducation #LearningThroughPlay #HandsOnLearning #ChildCentered #InnovativeLearning #ElementaryEducation #STEM #ReggioInspired #FutureThinkers #ExploreCreateLearn #LearningInAction #GrowingMinds #RichmondVA #CreativeCurriculum #CuriosityDriven #EducationWithJoy #StudentLedLearning #EmpoweredLearners

Congratulations to our very own 5th grader Anais, whose soccer team was named Dick's Sporting Goods Team of the Week! What's more, her team won the NCFC Girls Junior Showcase Tournament to end their fall season. ⚽🏆 "We love that Anais is at Sabot, where she gets to discover and develop all her 100 languages, exploring research, dance, and the arts. We know that soccer and swimming are her passions, but also that science, writing and her Sabot friends are all a close second!” - Parents Julian and Tania Click the [ 🔗 link in bio ] to read the articles If your Sabot Dragon has an achievement you'd like to share with the community, please email communications@sabotschool.org. We love to highlight our amazing students and alumni! 🙌 #richmondkickers #richmondsoccer #sabotsoccer #sabotdragons #sabotshoutout #dickssportinggoods #richondkickersyouth #teamoftheweek https://www.richmondkickersyouth.com/

It's World Kindness Day, and we are truly grateful to be part of a community that places such a strong emphasis on empathy, compassion, and collaboration. Whether it’s families coming together to beautify our grounds during spring clean-up or students offering a helping hand to their peers, we see kindness in action every day 💚🤝✨🌍 #WorldKindnessDay #Community #Empathy #Compassion #Collaboration #KindnessMatters #SabotSchool #TogetherWeThrive #RichmondVA #Education #KindnessInAction #SupportiveCommunity

Last Thursday, some of our 5th, 6th, and 7th graders in Callia’s maker space invited the Sabot community to test out their cardboard arcade games—prototypes created as part of their dive into the design cycle. 🕹️💡🛠️ Some games worked perfectly the first time; others were, well, a "learning experience" 😂. Each glitch became a chance to tweak, redesign, and laugh together. Armed with feedback from their game testers, students are now gearing up for version two. We’re proud of our resilient students who see bumps in the road not as setbacks but as opportunities to grow and improve. #ReggioInspired #ReggioEmiliaApproach #DesignThinking #MakerSpace #StudentInnovation #HandsOnLearning #LearningThroughPlay #CardboardArcade #Prototyping #GrowthMindset #SabotSchool #RichmondVA #RichmondMiddleSchool #LearningInAction #CreativeProblemSolving #STEMEducation #IterativeDesign #StudentCreators #CommunityOfLearners #ResilientStudents #progressiveeducation

The "100 languages of children" is a Reggio-Emilia concept rooted in the belief that children have multiple ways of expressing themselves, including through art, music, movement, and language, among many others. This concept is woven into each subject across all grades, from preschool through grade 8. Jāna, our PS-2 music atelierista, has been taking our preschoolers in the Forest Room on Listening Walks. Below is an excerpt from her newsletter: “Seen through the Reggio lens, the environment is the third teacher. To deepen a relationship with the natural environment, we have been taking Listening Walks in Sabot's outdoor spaces. In walking quietly through varied sound habitats, the children identify and map many unique sounds. Using paper and pen, they stop along the walks to visually represent what they're hearing. Some use pen strokes that appear like sound waves to chart the movement of sounds, while others include the images of the things they believe to be making the sounds. The group becomes quiet during these investigations, making it possible to more deeply activate their senses.” #ReggioEmilia #1000LanguagesOfChildren #CreativeLearning #ListeningWalks #NatureExploration #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ChildExpression #MusicEducation #SabotSchool #ForestRoom #EmpowerYoungMinds #ArtInEducation #LearningThroughPlay #SoundMapping #ChildhoodCreativity #RichmondVA #EducationMatters #InspiringCuriosity

Our students are so excited to welcome their grandparents and special friends to campus on Friday, November 22! 🦋 Please make sure your child(ren)’s grandparents/special friends have registered if they plan to attend. Invitations have been sent directly to them. Registrations are due next Friday. #grandparents #grandparentsandspecialfriendsday #sabotschool #grandparentsandspecialfriends

So much of our Reggio Emilia pedagogy begins with inquiry. Following Tuesday's election results, 7th graders in Courtney's social studies class came to school with pressing questions, sparking an opportunity for a deep dive in the days that followed. Yesterday, students rotated through stations to explore different aspects of the electoral process—listening to podcasts, analyzing electoral maps, reading articles, and engaging in meaningful discussions with their peers along the way. As a "Small School for Big Change," we’re committed to nurturing students who think critically and understand their role in shaping the future 🇺🇸 #SabotSchool #MiddleSchoolEducation #ProgressiveEducation #ReggioEmilia #CriticalThinking #SmallSchoolBigChange #FutureLeaders #RVAMiddleSchool #InquiryBasedLearning #SocialStudies #ElectionLearning #AdmissionsSeason #ExploreSabot #ApplyToSabot #RichmondVA #PrivateSchoolRVA #IndependentSchool #CommunityOfLearners #SmallClassSizes #StudentDriven #CuriosityDriven #ProjectBasedLearning #CivicEngagement #RichmondEducation #HolisticEducation #HandsOnLearning #RVAParents #MiddleSchoolMatters #BeyondTheClassroom #EducationForTomorrow

🌿 Sabot School is accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year! We invite you to join us at our upcoming admissions events to learn more about what makes Sabot so special. We are currently accepting applications for Preschool through 8th Grade. We would love to welcome you to our historic campus to meet our community, learn more about our Reggio-Emilia approach to education, and see firsthand how our classrooms inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. Click the [🔗 link in bio] to learn more and register. If you have any questions don't hesitate to reach out to admissions@sabotschool.org. We hope to see you soon! Correction: The times for Kindergarten Discovery Sessions are 3:45 - 4:45 p.m. on December 10 and 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. on December 12. https://www.sabotschool.org/upcoming-admissions-events #SabotSchool #RichmondVA #ProgressiveEducation #ReggioEmilia #WholeChildEducation #RichmondPrivateSchool #ApplyToSabot #ExploreSabot #SabotAdmissions #RVAFamilies #PreschoolEducation #Kindergarten #LowerSchool #MiddleSchool #RichmondEducation #SmallClassSizes #RVAParents #InnovativeEducation #OutdoorLearning #HolisticEducation #PrivateSchoolInRichmond #RichmondMoms #RichmondDads #RVACommunity #PersonalizedLearning #JoinTheSabotCommunity #DiscoverSabot #EarlyChildhoodEducation #NatureSchool #Montessori

Some joy for your feed this morning 💚 In a world where adults often rush to solve children’s problems, we believe in embracing the uncomfortableness that comes with empowering kids to figure things out on their own. Part of the Reggio Emilia approach involves stepping back and allowing children to think creatively and problem-solve like scientists. This process includes planning, trial and error, some inevitable frustration, and often starting over, all of which build critical thinking, resilience, and independence. Sometimes, removing the easy solution leads to greater discoveries. In the Rainbow Room 🌈, teachers Alexis and Anne have removed tape from the supply cabinet to challenge the children to explore new ways to connect their creations. The children are experimenting with a variety of materials, such as pipe cleaners, clothespins, velcro dots, and even stickers. This approach fosters ownership of their learning and cultivates confidence by embracing the "messy middle" and the pride that comes from succeeding with a difficult task. #ChildLedLearning #CreativeConnections #ProblemSolving #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioInspired #EarlyChildhoodEducation #RainbowRoom #SabotSchool #HandsOnLearning #ImaginationUnleashed #InquiryBasedLearning #PlayBasedLearning #StudentAgency #richmondpreschool #progressiveeducation

Early on, the kindergarteners in Hope and Ron's class showed a strong interest and curiosity about animals (maybe inspired by the class bunny Clover 🐰). What began as building a series of “zoos” has since grown into a class-wide project on habitats. Now, the children are creating a 3-D model of different animal habitats. 🐒🐖🐍🐢🐇🐘🐅🐏 In classrooms like ours, we use a Reggio Emilia approach, anchored in the belief that learning begins with children’s natural interests. By following their curiosity, we create opportunities for them to explore deeply, ask questions, and collaborate with peers. Projects like this habitat model don’t just teach facts; they inspire a lifelong love of learning and empower kids to follow their own ideas and passions. #ReggioInspired #KindergartenProjects #LearningThroughPlay #HabitatExploration #EarlyChildhoodEducation #SabotSchool #CuriosityDriven #LoveOfLearning #CollaborationInClass #CreativeLearning #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ChildLedLearning #HandsOnLearning #InquiryBasedLearning #ProjectBasedLearning #FollowTheChild #ReggioJourney #InspiredByReggio

🌟Faculty & Staff Spotlight: Renee Kunnen🌟 As if she couldn't be more awesome, PE Teacher Renee Kunnen just finished Ironman 12 this weekend! 🏅🏃‍♀️🏊‍♂️🚴‍♀️ Renee has been a part of the Sabot family since 2008 and says what makes this place magical is our incredible adjoining wilderness and the people. She loves being able to hold PE classes outdoors. When she's not at Sabot, Renee loves taking on triathlons and spending quality time with her family. She’s especially passionate about helping kids find activities and sports that spark their excitement—and she loves watching them fall in love with movement. Something you might not have guessed: Renee didn’t always enjoy running! Renee, you are a rockstar and we are so proud of you! 👏👏👏 #IronmanFinisher #Ironman12 #TriathleteLife #EnduranceAthlete #PEteacher #OutdoorEducation #SabotSchool #IronmanJourney #TeacherAthlete #IronStrong #SabotCommunity #FitnessInspiration #TriathlonTraining #RunBikeSwim #IronmanWeekend #KidsInNature #ActiveKids #SabotSpotlight #IronmanMom #SabotPride #OutdoorPE

Breakdancing in Grade 1! 🕺🎶 An interest in Breaking that began in preschool has grown into a full-blown movement in first grade! From one excited callout—“When do we get to breakdance?”—the entire class has joined in, exploring Hip-Hop, building their own cardboard dance floor, and diving into Breaking’s history and artistry. Recently, we welcomed Eric Luu from Richmond Urban Dance for a workshop, where students learned “freezes,” “power moves,” and the history of Breaking. With friends cheering each other on, taking turns in the spotlight, and sharing creative ideas, these young breakers have created a vibrant, supportive dance community. Thanks to Eric, @richmondurbandance, our music atelierista Jāna, our first grade teachers, and everyone who helped make this experience possible! 🙌 #ReggioEmilia #SabotSchool #Breakdancing #RichmondVA #100LanguagesOfChildren #ChildLedLearning #DanceAndDiscovery #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ReggioInspired #LearningThroughMovement #RichmondUrbanDance #BuildingCommunity #CreativityInClassroom #FollowingTheChild #InterestLedLearning #HipHopEducation

Gatemaster - open the gates! At Sabot, we believe in nurturing creativity and fostering a deep connection with nature, allowing children to explore, imagine, and grow through child-led playful learning experiences. Leaning into children's ideas and interests is a core feature of our pedagogy, even when playing! #ReggioEmilia #NatureSchools #PlayBasedLearning #ChildLedLearning #LearningThroughPlay #OutdoorClassroom #ThirdTeacher #RichmondVA #SabotSchool #NatureExploration #PreschoolLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #HandsOnLearning #ConnectWithNature #LearningInNature #NatureAsTeacher #ChildhoodDevelopment #NatureLovers #ForestSchool

By the time students enter 4th grade, they know how to put pencil to paper to write a story. But this year, teachers Melanie and Shannon are inviting them to follow their curiosity and engage with their narratives in new, hands-on ways. The first step was to develop their main characters. Heading outdoors, students used natural materials to sculpt imaginative figures—an experience that invites them to think deeply about personality and form. Back in the classroom, they painted these characters in watercolor, adding details that shape each unique identity. Next, the students designed the settings where their characters live, work, and play. By using “loose parts” like rocks, bark, and marbles, the students were encouraged to make intentional choices about each feature, considering details that reveal more about the world they are building. In Reggio-inspired learning, storytelling is more than writing—it’s a process of discovery. With each sensory-rich activity, our students deepen their understanding of narrative elements, express their voices, and engage with learning in ways that reach beyond the page. Swipe through to see their work in action and witness the creativity that unfolds when learning and nature come together. #SabotSchool #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ReggioInspired #ProgressiveEducation #ChildLedLearning #ProjectBasedLearning #OutdoorEducation #LearningThroughNature #CreativeClassrooms #HandsOnLearning #StudentVoice #SocialEmotionalLearning #InquiryBasedLearning #ExploringThroughPlay #CollaborativeLearning #RichmondVA #ElementaryEducation #WholeChildEducation #InspiredByNature #CuriosityDriven #LearningInAction #CreativeThinking #InnovativeEducation #LearningBeyondTheClassroom #NatureInspiredLearning

📚 The new LS-MS Library is almost ready for its grand opening! Housed in the former pool house, this redesigned space has become an inviting hub for reading and research for our Lower and Middle School students. A huge thanks to everyone who helped bring this vision to life! The library will have a soft opening this Thursday and Friday—be sure to stop by while you're on campus for conferences. And just a reminder, there is no school on these days for P/T conferences. #SabotSchool #ReggioInspired #RichmondVA #RichmondEducation #ProgressiveEducation #LowerSchool #MiddleSchool #LibraryOpening #ReadingAndResearch #CommunitySupported #EducationInnovation #LearningSpaces

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Fall Festival on Saturday! We had an incredible turnout, and it was wonderful to see our community come together and enjoy this beautiful weather! 🍂🍁🎃 #sabotschool #fallfestival2024 #sabotfallfest #richmondfallfestival

🌟 Teaching Team Spotlight: Shayla & Tricia🌟 As one of Sabot’s Grade 1 teaching teams, Shayla and Tricia bring unique strengths and passions to their classroom, creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment. They value the power of teamwork, knowing that together they can support their students more holistically. Shayla shared, "We truly are so much stronger as a team, and I feel like a better teacher when I am able to teach with Tricia!" With their complementary skills, they meet each child where they are, encouraging creativity and individuality every step of the way. Outside of school, Shayla enjoys hiking with her dog, reading, and playing music with her band. She’s passionate about children’s rights to play and loves the freedom and flexibility Sabot gives teachers to plan creatively. Fun fact: Shayla comes from a mixed family with 8 kids. She is also about to welcome her first bundle of joy! In her free time, Tricia loves reading, dancing, decorating, and spending time with her playful dog Goose. She’s passionate about creative expression and enjoys making art for herself, saying, “It’s the making that matters.” Fun fact: Tricia has dual citizenship with Belgium! #FacultySpotlight #TeachingTeam #Grade1 #ReggioInspired #CreativeClassroom #ChildLedLearning #CollaborativeTeaching #SabotCommunity #PassionForEducation #CreativeExpression #PlayBasedLearning #TeamworkInEducation #SabotSchool #LoveOfLearning #ExploringCreativity #TeacherLife #MusicAndArt #OutdoorLearning #PassionateTeachers

Our PS - Grade 2 music atelierista Jāna often takes students on unique sound explorations across campus, helping them discover the music that surrounds us every day. Whether it's tapping natural materials with a mallet or listening to the way our body feels when it hears certain sounds, Jāna guides students in understanding that music isn't confined to instruments alone—it's all around us, in nature and in the rhythms of life. Earlier this year, our 2nd graders captured this idea in a poem: "Music is made from natural materials… And instruments Music is made from voices Music is made from sounds that are good to your ears Music is a lot of things Music comes from air Music is a recorder Music is bells Music is chimes Music is drums Some music makes me feel happy and some music can feel sad Like funeral music I like singing, I sing a lot Music is shaking Music is strings Music makes me calm sometimes, sometimes happy and tired Music sometimes echoes There’s all types of music, like rock Music comes from nature Music is storytelling." #ReggioInspired #MusicExploration #SoundExplorations #Atelierista #MusicInNature #ReggioEmiliaApproach #ChildLedLearning #NaturalMaterials #DiscoveringSound #EarlyChildhoodEducation #LearningThroughMusic #CreativeExploration #MusicIsEverywhere #MusicalDiscovery #PS2Learning #VoicesAndSounds #MusicAndNature #StorytellingThroughMusic

Just a small moment of friendship captured in Honor Hall 💚 At Sabot, our community is built on trust, collaboration, and meaningful connections. Every day, we see students learning and growing together, supporting one another in a space that values curiosity, respect, and a shared love of learning. #SabotSchool #CommunityInAction #LearningTogether #FriendshipAndLearning #CuriosityAndConnection #HonorHallMoments #StudentLife #GrowingTogether #CollaborativeLearning #SabotValues

Ever wondered what life after Sabot is like? Sabot families with students in Grades 4-8 are invited to join us this Thursday, from 7:00 - 8:30 pm, for our Graduate Panel, where alumni will share their experiences navigating high school and beyond. Discover how Sabot helped prepare them for what’s next—and why our middle school program is such a crucial part of that journey. We hope to see you there! 📸: 2023 Graduate Panel #richmondmiddleschools #sabotschool #sabotgraduates #whatliesahead #richmondschools #richmondindependentschools #SabotAlumni #GraduatePanel #RichmondVA #ReggioInspired #RichmondEducation #MiddleSchoolJourney #RichmondSchools #RVAFamily #RichmondEvents #RVAParents #RichmondCommunity #RVAKids #RVASchools

This is a reminder that tomorrow, Wednesday, October 23, there will be a Sabot parent conversation on grief from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m via Zoom. Ashley Soukup, a licensed family therapist who worked with students and faculty on campus this fall, will lead the workshop for parents about children and grief. The Zoom link was emailed this morning. Hope to (virtually) see you there!

Democracy has emerged in the 6th grade! During Advisory two weeks ago, students mused about school elections and "how someone becomes a class president". Excitement and questions kept bubbling up and Taïs and Callia rolled with it beautifully! Within days the sixth graders organized into parties and created voting regulations and term limits, rules for campaigning, and even a mini Congress! Primaries were held resulting in two parties. Candidates gave prepared speeches in time for early voting on October 2nd. Terms are limited to two months and the sixth grade hopes to continue this process through the school year. Congrats to the whole class for pulling off this spectacular feat! It has been well organized, focused on equity and healthy competition, and fun! #SabotSchool #ReggioInspired #ReggioEmiliaApproach #DemocracyInAction #StudentLeadership #InquiryBasedLearning #6thGradeLeaders #HandsOnLearning #ClassroomCommunity #StudentVoice #ProgressiveEducation #EquityInEducation #CollaborativeLearning #SabotInspires #LearningThroughPlay

Sabot family! Tomorrow, you have the opportunity to combine two of your favorite activities: supporting Sabot and enjoying ice cream! Proceeds from this fundraiser will help support the Middle School trip to Panama happening this spring. Don't forget to mention Sabot School when you order 🙏 Thank you to Gelati Celesti Ice Cream for your partnership! 🍦💚 #fundraising #sabotschool #gelaticelesti #panamabound

Play is a vital part of how children learn and grow, which is especially evident when our children spend time in nature. As our 2nd graders collaborate to move a heavy log, they are engaging in purposeful work that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and social-emotional development. Research shows that unstructured, hands-on play strengthens cognitive development and supports the natural curiosity children bring to learning. Rooted in Reggio Emilia’s belief in the power of exploration, we see play as essential to developing resilience, cooperation, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. #ReggioInspired #SocialEmotionalLearning #HandsOnLearning #PlayBasedEducation #LearningThroughExploration #CollaborationInAction #CognitiveDevelopment #ReggioApproach #ChildLedLearning #ForestClassroom #InquiryBasedLearning #SabotValues #ResilienceThroughPlay #WholeChildEducation

Sabot School's Fall Festival is next Saturday! Join us on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 2:00–5:00 PM. 🍁🍂🎃 This festive afternoon will be packed with fun activities like face painting, pumpkin decorating, arts and crafts, and even a petting zoo. Make s'mores around a fire pit, enjoy hot chocolate and cider, get a bit of sparkle with fairy hair, and play yard games. With music, warm drinks, and plenty of fall vibes, it’s the perfect opportunity for families to come together, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the season. We are still looking for volunteers! If you're interested in helping out, be on the lookout for the Parents@Sabot newsletter tomorrow with more details. @flat.creekfarm @rva_fairyhair #sabotschool #fallfest #sabotfallfest #fallfestival #richmondfallfestival

In September, Sabot families came together for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Thanks to our amazing community, we stocked the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation Clinic at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond with snacks for patients, parents, and siblings. These snacks help support families during long hours at appointments and hospital stays. So many people donated that we were able to provide more than we ever expected! Thank you to everyone for your generosity, and a special thanks to Parents@Sabot for organizing this effort! #ChildhoodCancerAwareness #ASKFoundation #SabotCommunity #SabotGivesBack #SupportLocalFamilies #CommunityCare #SabotSchool #GiveBack #ChildrensHospitalRVA #SabotStrong #Parentsatsabot #communityservice

Crochet club is in session! 🧶 Years ago, Mary Boher taught a few 2nd graders to crochet. Since then, those students have passed on their skills to others. This group popped up again during the rainy weeks and now occasionally meets in Honor Hall to spend recess working on personal projects. #crochetclub #sabotschool

We’re excited to spotlight our Beyond the Classroom course, “Intro to Microcontrollers,” taught by Sabot parent and software architect Aaron Meriwether. In this course, students explore how computers work using the BBC micro:bit, a small, programmable device designed to teach coding and electronics. Students started by discussing what makes a computer. They learned about three key components: the processor (which handles calculations), memory (which stores information), and input/output (which lets us interact with the device). During hands-on experimentation, students used the micro’s built-in "welcome" program to explore its inputs and outputs, including buttons and sensors. They discovered how to write simple programs using MakeCode to display images and play sounds. #futureengineers #IntroToMicrocontrollers #BeyondTheClassroom #BBCMicrobit #STEMEducation #CreativeLearning #sabotschool

Join us tomorrow, Wednesday, October 16th, for the first event in a series called Sabot Sessions. Sabot Sessions are quarterly opportunities to hear from members of our community about topics relevant to our families. Our first session will feature counselor Ann Reavey, who will be leading a discussion on the topic: Supporting Your Child Through Friendship Conflict. The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. in Founders Hall. We hope to see you there. #sabotschool #friendshipconflict #sabotsessions #supportingyourchildthroughfriendshipconflict #richmondschools #schoolcounselors

🌟 Faculty & Staff Spotlight: Eliese & Audrey 🌟 Meet Eliese and Audrey, the dynamic duo guiding The Burrow! Both teachers joined Sabot within the past two years. As a team, they bring a sense of humor and thrive on the sense of community at Sabot, noting how the kindness and understanding from faculty and staff made them feel welcome from day one. In their words, “Our strengths and weaknesses fill each other’s gaps—we make one well-rounded unit!” Eliese loves exploring nature, thrifting, cooking, and spending time with her family. She’s passionate about learning, child development, and, surprisingly—sourdough! Fun fact: she has a 4-year-old sourdough starter and collects clowns. Eliese especially values the sense of togetherness at Sabot, which makes teaching feel less like a job and more like being part of a supportive community. Audrey is a founding member of an amateur crochet club, loves to read outdoors, and enjoys spending time with her sister and cats. She also has a unique hobby—raising tarantulas and other bugs! Audrey appreciates how Sabot’s focus on collective stewardship and social responsibility contrasts with the individualism of broader culture, making her work feel radical and important. #SabotSchool #TeacherSpotlight #teachingteam #burrowteam

Good morning from the Rainbow Room 🌈 These incredible 3-year-olds are signing themselves in every morning! 🖍️ In true Reggio Emilia fashion, this daily practice grew from the children's own curiosity and interests, rather than being directed by the teachers. By choosing to sign in, the students are taking ownership of their day, building early literacy skills, and learning how to navigate their classroom community—all through a process that honors their autonomy and fosters a sense of belonging. At Sabot, learning emerges from the children’s natural rhythms and passions, which is where a love of learning begins. #richmondpreschool #sabotschool #reggioinaction #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren #learningthroughplay #reggioemiliaapproach #childledlearning #earlyliteracy #handsonlearning #emergentcurriculum #letthemlead #earlychildhoodeducation #childcentered #preschoolactivities #reggiophilosophy

Have you seen our new signs on campus? These were created last year by our very own fourth graders, led by teachers Melanie and Shannon. In true Sabot fashion, the children took a deep dive into graphic design with a focus on purpose and audience. “We need to consider our audience. They will be driving in a car.” “We need to make the sign so it will be listened to.” With this in mind, the children investigated color combinations, fonts, and layout, and the mood that these elements evoke. They debated how to send a clear message that showed that it came from children, understanding the value and power of their voices. This highlights the pedagogy of Reggio that knows that children can have the power to affect adult behavior. #SabotSchool #ReggioEmilia #StudentVoices #ChildLedLearning #GraphicDesign #InquiryBasedLearning #PowerOfChildren #CreativityInAction #FourthGradeProjects #CampusCommunity #RichmondSchools #SabotPride #LearningByDoing #DesignThinking #YoungDesigners

Reading buddies are up and running! 📖👭 One of the best things about being a PS–8 school is the opportunity for collaboration across classes and grade levels. Here, Kindergarteners are paired up with 6th graders, who are excited to share their love of reading with their buddies throughout the year.

Our preschool students in the Hive 🐝 are creating their first self-portraits of the year! But this isn't about creating art, this is about observing. This practice is an important part of the Reggio Emilia approach, where learning to observe is a key step in exploring the world around them. 🔎 By carefully noticing and observing, children refine their ability to notice details and ask questions. They will revisit this activity several times throughout the year, allowing them to see how their skills develop over time. #SabotSchool #ReggioInspired #SelfPortraits #ObservationalSkills #RichmondVA #playdiscovercreate #100languages #reggioemiliaapproach #learningthroughplay #100languagesofchildren #reggioclassroom #reggioinspired #reggio #reggioemilia #progressiveeducation #constructivisteducation #ReggioPreschool

In celebration of Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month 🇪🇸 🇲🇽 🇨🇴 🇨🇺 🌎, middle schoolers in Taïs’s Spanish class explored the life and work of a Spanish-speaking or heritage artist of their choice 🧑‍🎨. Students began by researching, delving into their artist’s life, artwork, and impact. They then created their own original art pieces inspired by the artist, choosing the best medium for their ideas. The project concluded with presentations and a gallery walk, where students shared both their research and creations, showcasing their learning and appreciation for Latinx culture. At Sabot, creativity is an integral part of learning across all subjects. Our Reggio-inspired philosophy embraces the idea that children make their learning visible in 100 languages—from dance to drama, storytelling to painting. This project is just one example of how our students are constantly creating. #HispanicHeritageMonth #LatinxHeritageMonth #SabotMiddleSchool #ArtAndCulture #ReggioApproach #reggioinaction #constructivisteducator #constructivisteducation #richmondmiddleschool #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren #reggioemiliaapproach

In Reggio-inspired classrooms like Sabot, provocations are carefully designed setups by teachers meant to spark curiosity, exploration, and collaboration. Rather than giving instructions, we provide materials or scenarios that invite children to think, create, and problem-solve on their own. Provocations encourage children to engage deeply with the world around them, promoting inquiry, creativity, and collaborative learning. Here’s an example from the Nest, teachers Honey and Maddie set up a provocation for our youngest 2 year olds with blocks, tunnels, and cars. "James was the first to spot it and quickly turned the blocks into a road. Seeing that the road needed to be longer, he and Honey worked together to extend it. Soon, Wright noticed what was happening and joined in, making the road both longer and taller! By the end of morning play, Essie, Ezra, and Elena had all become part of the project. This play continued throughout the week, evolving with different blocks, trains, and tunnels." ✨This is the magic of provocations—open-ended, child-led, and always evolving!✨ #SabotSchool #ReggioInspired #ReggioEmiliaApproach #EarlyChildhoodEducation #RichmondVA #HandsOnLearning #ChildLedLearning #PlayBasedLearning #InquiryBasedLearning #RichmondSchools #LearningThroughPlay #CollaborativeLearning #ReggioInRichmond #OutdoorLearning #RichmondEducation #ReggioAtSabot #RichmondKids #ProvocationsInLearning #ExplorationAndPlay #RichmondFamilies #BuildingConnections #CreativePlay #ChildrensCuriosity #NatureInspiredLearning #SabotNest #RichmondEarlyEducation

At Sabot, each class heads into the forest at least once a week—rain or shine. We’re not afraid to get a little dirty while exploring, playing, and learning in nature. It’s an important part of our Reggio-inspired approach, allowing children to connect with the natural world in meaningful ways. Kindergarten teacher Amy shares details from her class's recent forest walk: "The children noticed so many creatures and natural materials. The play varied—some performed experiments to see what would sink or float, while others engaged in dramatic play, becoming beavers and making a dam in the creek. Some went on nature hunts to create a collection of treasures. Between the sensory exploration and challenging their bodies, the forest provided limitless fun. There were so many aphids that the children decided to name that part of the forest, 'Aphid Forest.'" #SabotSchool #OutdoorLearning #ForestPlay #ReggioInspired #RichmondVA #NatureExploration #LearningThroughPlay #ForestAdventures #HandsOnLearning

🌟 Faculty & Staff Spotlight: Lupita 🌟 In honor of Hispanic Heritage/Latinx Month, we’re celebrating our Spanish teachers! Meet Lupita, who teaches Lower School Spanish. New to Sabot this year, Lupita is already making an impact with her creative and engaging approach to teaching Spanish. Originally from Mexico City, Lupita is passionate about using music and movement to help students connect with the language. When she’s not at Sabot, she loves exploring Richmond’s parks, neighborhoods, and restaurants with her husband, Luis. Fun fact: Lupita loves dancing! #HispanicHeritageMonth #LatinxHeritage #SabotDragons #SabotSchool #SabotFacultyAndStaff #SabotCommunity #SabotLowerSchool

In sadness, we are grateful to also find joy. Yesterday, we came together in community with Jamie Lahy’s family to honor his memory and celebrate him as a colorful, joyful, and incredible educator. Jolly Ranchers, a dedication to his footwear, axolotls, and, of course - teaching in a way that allowed kids to be kids and instilling a passion for the wonder of science. Jamie left an indelible mark on each of us and will live on in so many ways. In the words of a student, "he was the realest guy that ever lived." #celebrationoflife #sciencelikejamie #sabotschool

Throwback to the first week of school, when our 6th and 7th Graders experienced their Field Study trips. These trips, part of the Middle School Field Studies program, are designed to immerse students in real-world environments, allowing them to observe, reflect, and deepen their understanding over time. Through repeated visits to key sites throughout the year, students not only track changes in their surroundings but also develop critical thinking, research skills, and a lasting connection to the natural world. Our 6th Graders explored the stunning Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, where they wandered through themed gardens like the Rose Garden and Cherry Tree Walk, engaging with plant life and ecosystems. Meanwhile, our 7th Graders spent their day at Shalom Farms, a nonprofit farm working toward food equity, where they got hands-on experience with sustainable farming and learned about the impact of local food systems. These experiences are tied to our Umbrella Project for the year, Stewardship, which challenges students to reflect on how their actions affect ecosystems, communities, and resources. By connecting their fieldwork to questions like "What does it mean to be a steward of the environment?" students gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world and their role in protecting it. #FieldStudies #Stewardship #EnvironmentalEducation #MiddleSchoolLearning #SabotSchool #NatureExploration #StudentResearchers #ConservationInAction #OutdoorClassroom #UmbrellaProject #ReggioEmilia #ReggioEmiliaApproach #100Languages #ReggioClassroom #ReggioInspired #Reggio #ProgressiveEducation #RichmondMiddleSchool #ConstructivistEducation #LewisGinterBotanicalGarden #ShalomFarms #FoodJustice #SustainableFarming #CommunityStewardship #HandsOnLearning

JV Soccer had a great game last Thursday, taking home their first W! #sabotschool #sabotathletics #richmondsoccer

3rd graders are officially mycologists! 🍄 After finding a 5-pound chicken of the woods mushroom during their time in the forest, teacher Patrick cooked it up and shared it with the community. Yup - tastes like chicken! Time in nature is an essential part of our days at Sabot. We are grateful to have the 105 acres of Larus Park right at our fingertips. #laruspark #mushrooming #chickenofthewoods #chickenofthewoodsmushroom #richmondelementaryschool #richmondnatureschool #getoutdoors #natureschool #richmondschools #sabotschool #progressiveeducation #learningthroughplay

Our preschool students in the Burrow are just over here living their best lives - playing, creating, exploring, and building connections. 🎨🍀👩‍🍳🚂 What a time to be 3! #Richmondpreschool #getoutdoors #natureschool #ReggioPreschool #sabotschool #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio

At Sabot, math looks a little different. In our Reggio-inspired classrooms, learning is a collaborative and creative process, driven by children's natural curiosity. First graders are working together to create a shared math strategy, and they’ve come up with some big ideas—literally! After class discussions and agreements, they decided their number line would include illustrations, and one student excitedly declared it the "biggest number line ever," while another imagines it might reach 3,000! #ReggioInspired #SabotMath #LearningThroughPlay #richmondelementaryschool #sabotschool #constructivisteducation #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren #reggioemiliaapproach #100languages

Sabot is in the news! 🎉 We’re excited to share that Sabot School was recently featured in Richmond Magazine! The article, “Charting a Course,” dives into how local schools are adapting their educational models to better support students' growth and success. With a focus on innovative learning environments, the piece explores how schools in Richmond are finding creative ways to engage students both inside and outside the classroom. In the article, Carol-Margaret Bitner, Associate Head of School of Academics and Research, shared insights into Sabot’s commitment to fostering curiosity and independence through our Reggio-inspired curriculum and outdoor learning. The feature highlights our use of the adjacent Larus Park, where students engage in hands-on exploration. Sabot’s unique approach empowers students to take charge of their learning, making meaningful connections to the world around them. Click the [🔗 link in bio] to read the full story. #SabotSchool #RichmondEducation #InnovativeLearning #OutdoorEducation #ReggioInspired #LarusPark #HandsOnLearning #RichmondVA #EducationInnovation #StudentEmpowerment https://richmondmagazine.com/news/education/charting-a-course

Each year, Sabot School explores a central theme through our Umbrella Project, and this year’s focus is Stewardship. As part of this project, our 8th graders recently took to the water at Dutch Gap Conservation Area, kayaking through wetlands while observing and recording the impact of conservation efforts. Field studies like this are essential to our Middle School curriculum, offering students the chance to revisit key sites quarterly. This repeated engagement allows them to track changes over time, deepen their understanding, and see the real-world effects of their observations and actions. By exploring questions like "What is stewardship?" and "How do our actions affect the environment?", students learn to care for ecosystems, communities, and resources, developing critical research skills and a lasting connection to the natural world. #FieldStudies #Stewardship #EnvironmentalEducation #DutchGapConservationArea #KayakingAdventures #MiddleSchoolLearning #SabotSchool #NatureExploration #StudentResearchers #ConservationInAction #OutdoorClassroom #umbrellaproject #reggioemilia #umbrellaproject #reggioemiliaapproach #100languages #reggioclassroom #reggioinspired #reggio #reggioemilia #progressiveeducation #richmondmiddleschool #constructivisteducation