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

Following the trend of taking ownership of their classroom, during the first week of school, the 5th graders in Marla and Eli's class explored how classroom objects should be used and shared. Working together with their teachers, students wrote and voted on a bill, resulting in their first classroom law! 🗳️ While some of these laws may be difficult to manage, that’s part of the learning experience. The students will work together to revise and improve them as they go, gaining valuable lessons in problem-solving and teamwork. #reggioinaction #reggioinspiredschools #richmondelementaryschool #richmondschools #sabotschool #constructivisteducator #constructivisteducation #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren #reggioemiliaapproach

At Sabot School, spaces are collaborative, and students take ownership of their environment. Following the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the environment serves as a third teacher, encouraging students to engage with their surroundings and learn through hands-on experiences. During the first week of school, the children in the Forest Room took on the daunting task of putting together an Ikea shelf. While this might seem like a simple task (although with Ikea, is it ever?) - for preschoolers it's a bit more. It’s a valuable learning experience that involves following instructions, problem-solving, fine motor skills, and teamwork. They worked together to look at the directions, screw the pieces into place, and communicate effectively—practicing perseverance and collaboration along the way. #Richmondpreschool #ReggioPreschool #sabotschool #reggioinaction #constructivisteducator #constructivisteducation #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom

Today, our Sabot family came together to honor Jamie Lahy, who tragically passed away this week. Jamie taught science to Grades 5-8, ran the Outdoor Spaces club, and served as the Grade 6 advisor, but to Sabot, he was much, much more than that. When asked how they’d like to honor him today, Middle School students decided that—in true Jamie fashion—a rocket launch would be the perfect tribute. Students launched air rockets they designed using two-liter bottles, each with a personal message to Jamie tucked inside. It felt like the perfect way to remember him—his love for hands-on science brought joy, wonder, and laughter to the whole community. This has been a tough week, but the way our community has come together has been inspiring. Parents have stepped up to support teachers, students have created beautiful tributes, counselors have volunteered their time, and our teachers have been there for each other every step of the way. Today’s rocket launch was a moment of joy and reflection, honoring the spirit of a teacher who gave us so much. #RememberingJamie #SabotCommunity #SciencelikeJamie

Thank you to everyone who came out on Saturday for the BTS Family Potluck, and a special thanks to Parents@Sabot for organizing! What a great day of good food and good company. Not to be biased, but the Sabot community is truly the best! 💚 #sabotschool #parentsatsabot #backtoschoolpotluck #sabotcommunity

Last week, Dave Menges, our new Interim Head of School, was recognized as the winner of the 🌟Kellogg Award🌟 from Hurricane Island Outward Bound School in Maine. This award honors a HIOBS staff member who has demonstrated outstanding service, a deep commitment to the school and its programs, and/or support for students/staff in a special way. Dave first started with HIOBS as an instructor in 1989 and has been serving in the field ever since. Over the past decade, he has also made a profound impact on the Costa Rica semester courses, as well as countless educational partnership programs, where he served the mission of the school and their students with excellence and compassion. "Dave has an incredible way of connecting with students quickly and making them feel important. Whether it’s learning their names and hometowns or showing up with cookies at the end of a course, students feel connected to Dave immediately." Congrats Dave! We're so grateful that you're part of the Sabot family! @outwardboundhurricaneisland #outwardboundhurricaneisland #hoibs #kellogaward #sabotschool

Registration is open for the Fall sessions of Beyond The Classroom! From Mountain Biking 🚵 to Dungeons & Dragons 🎲 to SWIFTology 🎤✨, there's something for everyone. Click the [ 🔗 link in bio] to see the catalog and register. Registration closes on Sept 10, but be warned - classes fill up quickly! #beyondtheclassroom #sabotschool #taylorswift #schoolgarden https://www.sabotschool.org/after-school-enrichment

Richmond artist Lowe Fehn (they/them) joined our Middle Schoolers for the first Maker Speaker event of the year. Fehn is an interdisciplinary painter whose work and poetry embrace spiritual curiosity—seeking to describe elemental unification and intuitive connections between living beings. You can see Fehn's artwork by clicking the [🔗 link in bio]. Part of our Middle School curriculum is Exploratory, or Explo for short, which is an opportunity for students to take a deep dive into a personal interest. Throughout the year, students connect with other Makers—area artists, engineers, thinkers, doers, etc.—who showcase their studio practice and help them apply specific skills to Explo and beyond. #Lowefehnartwork #sabotschool #sabotrva #sabotmiddleschool #sabotexplo #makerseries #makertalks https://lowefehn.cargo.site/Paintings

🦋“There are so many butterflies because it’s such a beautiful day and they want to be outside enjoying it!”🦋 - Kindergarten #sabotschool #butterflygarden #sabotkindergarten #richmondkindergarten

The Back To School Family Potluck is this Saturday from 5:00 - 7:00! Check this month's Roundup for details on how to sign up to bring a dish, and don't forget to bring refillable water bottles and a blanket or chairs for your family. We hope to see you there! 🍝🍛 If you have questions feel free to reach out to parents@sabotschool.org #sabotschool #parentsatsabot #backtoschool #richmondbacktoschool

⚽ Sabot School is itching to get soccer season started, but there's just one thing we're missing - coaches! We are looking for Varsity (Grades 5 - 8) and Junior Varsity (Grades 2 - 4) Coaches. Both teams practice once a week with one game each most weeks. If you or anyone you know might be interested in being a soccer coach this year, please email our director of Enrichment, Reese Vinson, at rvinson@sabotschool.org. This is a paid position. #richmondsoccer #sabotsoccer #youthsoccer #coachesneede #soccercoachesneeded

🌟 Faculty & Staff Spotlight: Mabrey 🌟 In this series, we’re introducing the incredible faculty and staff who make Sabot School a special place to learn and grow. First up is Mabrey Matherly, who is the smiling face you'll see when you walk into the Main House! Mabrey has been part of the Sabot community since 2015 as a parent and joined the staff in 2019. She finds Sabot magical because of the way the image of the child is celebrated every day. Her favorite aspect of Sabot is the people—both children and adults—who make each day special. Outside of Sabot, Mabrey enjoys spending time at parks with her kids, pulling weeds, and reading. Fun fact: Mabrey used to be a green belt in Taekwondo! #meetadragon #sabotdragons #sabotschool #sabotfacultyandstaff #sabotrocks

🌧 Even a little rain couldn’t keep us from our first all-school circle! Dave Menges, Interim Head of School, welcomed students to the 24-25 school year, 8th grade led the school in a giant wave, and a belated happy birthday was sung to our students with summer birthdays. Parents, you can expect the first edition of the Sabot RoundUp, our monthly newsletter, to hit your inboxes this afternoon. It's filled with all sorts of good stuff, from upcoming events, highlights from each program, Beyond The Classroom sign-ups, P@S updates, and more! #sabotschool #sabotrva #allschoolcircle #newschoolyear

The Hive, our preschool class for children aged 4, has expanded into two rooms in the Main House this year. Teachers Katie and Emily have created such a beautiful environment, and all the children are loving the extra space! Don’t worry, the fireplace is for aesthetics only! #sabotschool #sabotpreschool #richmondpreschool

Each year, our faculty chooses a question or a topic that the whole school community investigates together, which we call our Umbrella Project. This investigation takes place across the entire school and includes research done by all the children, from two-year-olds to eighth graders, as well as teachers, administrators, and parents. This year's Umbrella Project theme is Stewardship, which has provided an exciting jumping-off point this week. Our 8th graders started their week by mapping out the buildings on campus and interviewing teachers, looking for opportunities for stewardship. #sabotschool #umbrellaproject #stewardship

First day of school in the books, and what a great day it was! Filled with new friends, icebreakers, wonderings, games, and lots of play. Can't wait for tomorrow! #sabotschool #firstdayofschool

Welcome back Sabot Dragons! Today was Preschool Family Visits and K-8 Meet The Teacher, followed by the Ice Cream Social sponsored by Parents@Sabot. Thank you everyone who came out, and a special thank you to our P@S Chairs, Dori and Janna! Parents, if you're not a part of the Parents@Sabot facebook group, I'm including the 🔗 link in bio. It's a great place to connect with other Sabot parents. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/F6AeEK1EqULj39yX/ #sabotschool #meettheteacher #parentsatsabot #sabotdragons

Sabot School is buzzing with excitement as we've eagerly prepared for the arrival of students next week! Over the past two weeks, teachers have been busy connecting, planning, and creating inviting classroom environments. They’ve engaged in meaningful discussions on inclusion, belonging, and safety, and ended the week in true Sabot fashion - by stewarding our shared outdoor space, Larus Park. We’re looking forward to seeing you on Monday for Meet the Teacher, Preschool Family Visits, and the Ice Cream Social sponsored by Parents@Sabot! #saboschool #parentsatsabot #backtoschool #richmondschools

The bottom floor of Honor Hall is OPEN and ready for our Middle School Students! 🙌 Our Middle School teachers have been slowly moving in to their new classrooms, and we couldn't be more excited to welcome our students on Monday for Meet the Teacher. Here, Jamie is pictured in the new Middle School science lab. Don't worry, the axolotls made the move just fine. #sabotschool #honorhall #richmondmiddleschool

🌟 Sabot Alumni Spotlight 🌟 Evan Wolff, Sabot Class of 2016, has just celebrated a major milestone. As early as third grade, Evan showed a love for medicine. During a class reenactment of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, Evan played the role of the doctor who performed the medical reviews. He is pictured here examining his brother. Evan went on to attend Maggie Walker High School, graduating in the class of 2020, and then the University of Richmond, class of 2024. He is now a student at the UVA School of Medicine, class of 2028. This past Friday marked Evan's "White Coat" ceremony, a significant milestone for medical students. Congratulations, Evan! We are so proud of you and glad that Sabot could play a part in your journey. We love to celebrate the happenings in our community. If you have news to share, email communications@sabotschool.org, we'd love to shout you out! You can read more about Evan by clicking the 🔗link in bio. #sabotschool #sabotalum #sabotalumni https://hs.richmond.edu/professional-development/pre-clinical-advising/index.html

We are thrilled to have Honey Jones return to Sabot! This year, Honey will be working in the Nest and will also take on a new title: DEIB Community Co-Coordinator (working alongside Richard Garries). This past weekend, Honey gave an incredible presentation at the D.C. Area Educators for Social Justice Curriculum Fair. Honey and her co-presenter Makai Kellogg spoke on Honoring Diverse Family Structures in the Anti-Bias Early Childhood Classroom. From the seminar description: "This session is for early childhood and elementary educators who are working to cultivate a school community where all families belong." A major element that Honey spoke about was the practice of keeping "family journals", something Sabot does throughout our preschool program. These family journals allow students to document and celebrate their own family structures, as well as learn about the families of others. Photo 2 features Honey holding her own Family Journal, created with her parents after her adoption. 📖❤ During her presentation, Honey shared a list of early childhood books that would be helpful in teaching your children about family structures. 🔗 Those books are linked in bio. #DEIB #socialjustice #familysystems #sabotschool https://socialjusticebooks.org/booklists/early-childhood/families/

It's New Teacher Orientation at Sabot School! We are so excited to welcome new (and returning) staff members to our family. Teachers spent the week getting to know everything Sabot, exploring the forest, and going through extensive training on our progressive Reggio-inspired pedagogy. From seminars on documentation, investigation, and co-construction (presented by our very own Melanie Nan) to engaging discussions on how to utilize the environment as the third teacher (run by our very own Director of Preschool, Elaine Phillips), these teachers are more than ready to jump in and support our children's learning. Next week is Teacher Work Week, where all faculty and staff will join us. Good things ahead! #reggioschools #newteacherorientation #sabotschool

Introducing the ✨Preschool Research Library✨ A lot happens at a school over the summer, behind the scenes. This summer, a room on the bottom floor of the Main House was transformed into the Preschool Research Library, or PRL for short. A tranquil place where students can read, play, and learn was created thanks to generous donations from our community. What other surprises will the new year bring? 👀 #sabotschool #preschoolresearchlibrary #behindthescenes

This year Sabot School is collaborating with @heshezeandwe, a non-profit organization that supports Transgender and Nonbinary people by empowering their families, communities, and allies to create life-saving, inclusive environments. He She Ze and We will be providing professional development training for all faculty/staff this August, and also be providing ongoing support and collaboration for our community. This Sunday, Aug 4, He She Ze and We is hosting a back-to-school event at Diversity Thrift, from 1-4pm. Join in the fun as students participate in a clothing swap, gender-affirming haircuts and hair styling, and professional styling services. Studio Two-Three will be there to print t-shirts and Soul Ice will be serving iced treats! Click the 🔗 link in our bio to learn more https://heshezewe.org/

Remember the days of turning marker caps into finger puppets? Some things never change! #sabotsummer #richmondsummercamps #childhoodmemories #playdiscovercreate

Throwback to the 5th-grade sleepover this past May! Always a popular auction item at the Gala, this year it was purchased by a 5th-grade parent and gifted to the entire class. Students had a blast playing in the garden, hanging out in the main house, and showing off their stuffies! #sabotsleepover #sabotgala

Summer days spent as they were meant to be—filled with books, play, and creating. 📚 🏃‍♂️ 🎨. #sabotsummer #richmondsummercamps #playdiscovercreate

Imaginary worlds are built one brick at a time. 🏗️✨ #sabotsummer #richmondsummercamps #creativityinmotion #playdiscovercreate

We hope you're finding ways to stay cool on this hot week! Preschool campers at A Sabot Summer are beating the heat with water (and mud) play. #sabotsummer #asabotsummer #richmondsummercamps #staycooloutthere

The end of the year is a truly special time, filled with excitement for the future, nostalgia for the past, and a whole lot of fun events. A few weeks ago, our students participated in "Move-Up Days," which provided them with an opportunity to meet their future teachers and get a sneak peek at what they will be learning next year. We hope this experience has left your students feeling excited about the coming year and ready to enjoy a worry-free summer! #sabotschool #moveupdays #richmondelementaryschools #readyforsummer

Last week members of our community gathered for an end-of-the-year forest walk. Both children and families alike delighted in the opportunity to explore our magical woods together. Thanks for everyone that came out! #laruspark #sabotschool #richmondnatureschools #getoutside

That’s a wrap, folks! Have a great summer and we can’t wait to see you next fall! #lastdayofschool #sabotschool #haveagreatsummer

Congratulations Sabot Class of 2024! We are SO proud of you and can’t wait to see where you go next 🎉 #sabotgraduates #classof2024

What a sweet day filled with sweet traditions. On the last day of school, Preschool students are surprised with a note written from their families as well as a shiny new pencil - silver for children that are returning to Sabot for the following year, gold for those embarking on new adventures. This lovely tradition is inspired by the song Making New Friends. "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver; the other is gold. A circle is round; it has no end. That’s how long I will be your friend. A fire burns bright; it warms the heart. We’ve been friends from the very start. You have one hand; I have the other. Put them together; we have each other."

One of our kindergarten classes recently experienced the magical journey of hatching and releasing butterflies, a perfect metaphor for the end of the school year. Just as these butterflies have grown and are now ready to spread their wings, our students have blossomed and are prepared for their next big adventure. When asked if they had any words they would like to say to the butterflies, they children said to the butterflies “thank you for being with us. We hope you have a good life. Come and visit us. We enjoyed having you.” The butterflies were released in the Mary Baxter Memorial Garden. Watching the butterflies take flight reminds us of the growth, transformation, and new beginnings that come with learning. We're so proud of all of our students and are excited to see where their curiosity and hard work will take them next. 🦋 #lastdaysofschool #sabotschool #transformation #inmemory

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Eve, who came to Sabot in kindergarten. They’re off to Open High School, where they imagine a future studying history or political science. Their favorite Explo project was in 8th grade when they made four dresses, each one based on a season. They loved being able to explore something they were passionate about. They state, “My favorite thing about Sabot is the freedom I got as a young child to explore and make mistakes.” They will miss their friends who made this journey with them and watched them grow and change. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Raymond, who came to Sabot in 6th grade. He’s off to James River High School Center for Leadership and International Relations, where he imagines a future studying urban planning. His favorite Explo project was when he got to study music production, a project that he loved and continues to explore. His favorite thing about Sabot is the people, and he’s going to miss all the friendships and laughter. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

The Virginia Junior Academy of Science (VJAS) State Symposium took place a couple of weeks ago, and - to no one's surprise - our students absolutely rocked it. Each project reflects months of work, experimentation, and thoughtful research. The fact that our students took home so many awards at the state level makes it even more impressive. We are so proud of our budding scientists and grateful for teacher-researcher Jamie for his guidance. You can read the full story by clicking the 🔗 link in bio. INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS: Alexa: 1st Place in Animal and Human Sciences Olivia: 2nd Place in Animal and Human Sciences Ainsley and Eve: 1st Place in Chemical Science Kieden & Lucy: Honorable Mention in Ecology and Earth Science Lucian: 2nd Place in Plant Science and Microbiology SPECIAL AWARDS: Eve and Ainsley: "The Effect of Different Activators on the Stretch of Slime" (pictured above) Eve and Ainsley won the Joyce K. Peterson Award for Outstanding Research Project, given in honor of Joyce Peterson’s outstanding teaching legacy. Their project was recognized as the best project in the physical sciences, as well as best project overall. Lucian P: "The Effect of Black-strap Molasses as a Foliar Fertilizer on the Propagation and Leaf Growth of the Critically Endangered Species Stachys matthewsii" Lucian won the Gamma Sigma Delta Award, from the Virginia Tech Chapter of the Honor Society of Agriculture. This award is given to a student in recognition of excellence in research dealing with the application of new technologies and/or concepts in agriculture, forestry, or veterinary medicine. #vjas #sabotschool #virginiajunioracademyofscience #juniorscientists #middleschoolscience #progressiveeducation #richmondmiddleschool #sabotstudentsrock

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Serena, who came to Sabot in 7th grade. She’s off to St. Gertrude High School, where she's considering studying for a career working for NASA. Her favorite Explo project was when she created dog bandannas, catering to each dog’s specific personality. One of her favorite parts of being at Sabot is going to the forest, which she will miss greatly. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Isaac, who came to Sabot in 6th grade. He’s off to Monacan High School Center for the Humanities, where he imagines a future in mechanical or architectural engineering. His favorite Explo project was when he coded a game, in which he designated the sprites and wrote some original code, which he was proud of. He’s going to miss his friends and the opportunity to explore his interests in Explo class. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Renna, who came to Sabot in 7th grade. She’s off to Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School, where she imagines a future studying marine biology or interior design. Her favorite Explo project was focused on photography, where she explored candid photography with both a digital and Polaroid camera. She says that she’ll miss the freedom she’s felt at Sabot, and of course, her friends. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

As if our 8th graders aren't awesome enough, they made a podcast! Click the 🔗 link in bio to listen. Teacher-researcher Sarah explains "As part of their action research project, the 8th grade created a podcast titled, Sabot's Peace of Mind. The project asked students to identify interests, choose a focus area, gather data, consult with experts, engage stakeholders, and devise a plan for sustainable action. This year's class chose to focus on food insecurity in Richmond. Students collected data during a field study trip to Shalom Farms, and in interviews with representatives from Chesterfield Food Bank, Goochland Cares, and Greater Richmond Fit4Kids." #sabotstudentsrock #richmondmiddleschool #sabotschool #studentpodcast #reggioemiliaapproach #100languagesofchildren #reggioclassroom #reggioinspired #reggio #reggioemilia #progressiveeducation #constructivisteducation #constructivisteducator #reggioinaction https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fMbwm8uy9afEXNr0vgRfMZhkIlqBDaSu/view

Dear Sabot Community, we are beyond thrilled to announce that with the completion of Phase 2, Honor Hall is now fully complete! 🙌 Honor Hall opened its top floor for the 2023-2024 school year, and, now complete, will open its lower level for the fall 2024 semester, marking a significant milestone for our community. The lower level of Honor Hall, overlooking the forest, will be dedicated to our middle school classrooms, providing much-needed space for our growing programs. With this addition, the main level of Honor Hall will now house most of our Kindergarten through Grade 5 classrooms, in addition to a dedicated K-8 studio space. The move into the new space will take place this summer. If you are interested in volunteering to assist with the move, please contact Chris, our Director of Operations, at chackenberg@sabotschool.org. Read the full Sabot Story by clicking the 🔗 link in bio. #sabotschool #wheretheheartiscampaign #sabotgiving #sabotcapitalcampaign https://www.sabotschool.org/it-s-done-phase-2-of-honor-hall-is-complete-and-ready-for-move-in

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Charlie, who came to Sabot in preschool. She’s off to Appomattox Regional Governor's School, where she imagines a future studying to be an artist or teacher. Her favorite Explo project was exploring cosplaying, where she made an entire costume for Zoro from One Piece. Charlie says that she’ll miss a lot of things, especially the community and the memories. Being here since preschool, she says, “I know most people on a personal level, and I'm very grateful to be able to know all of my peers and teachers like that.” Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Caroline, who came to Sabot in preschool. She’s off to St. Catherine’s School, where she imagines studying for a future as a historian. Her favorite Explo project, which extended way beyond Sabot, was when she was accepted as a Page in the Virginia House of Delegates. For the entire semester, she worked for the Clerk of the Virginia House of Delegates along with other students her age. One of her favorite parts of Sabot was the time spent outside in the forest, which she values as a unique trait of Sabot. She states, “We would go down there every day, rain or shine, and stay until we got picked up [for carpool].” Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Owen, who came to Sabot in 7th grade. They are off to Open High School, where they imagine a future studying computer science. Their favorite Explo project was creating a Scratch game based on Pokemon and Nintendo. One of their favorite things about Sabot was making friends across all grades of middle school, and they are going to miss how much time they were able to spend outdoors. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Lucian, who came to Sabot in 6th grade. He’s off to Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School and is considering a future in economics. His favorite Explo project was when he got to study and make Hispanic food from a variety of different countries. Lucian says that he’ll miss the relaxed atmosphere of campus. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

In pondering Movement, our Umbrella Theme for the year, 5th grade began thinking about movement across the country. They designed a game that showed how various socioeconomic groups moved and thrived (or not) during the Colonial Period in North America. Teacher-researcher Marla says "The group combined their knowledge of games and the movement of various socioeconomic and cultural identity groups to create an original game. Each group had a different choice of starting and ending points, Both the desired outcome and range of outcomes for each group were different. The group devised the board and the rules collaboratively, and made game markers as small figures to represent each group based on their previous learning and additional research." It's incredible how a single word can inspire such a range of ideas! #richmondelementaryschool #richmondschools #sabotschool #reggioinaction #constructivisteducator #constructivisteducation #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren #learningthroughplay

We hope you will join us for the end-of-the-year stay n' play Families and Food Trucks Extravaganza on the last day of school! This Wednesday, June 5th, directly following dismissal at 12:30, we will gather on the soccer field to spend some much-needed time together before we go our separate ways for the summer. Bring a blanket and/or some chairs and your appetite! Ruby Scoops, The Grateful Grill RVA, and Goatocado will be onsite; they accept both cash and credit cards. #lastdayofschool #rubyscoops #gratefulgrillrva #goatocado #richmondfoodtrucks #familiesandfoodtrucks #sabotschool #parentsatsabot

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Avery, who came to Sabot in kindergarten. She’s off to Trinity Episcopal School, where she imagines a future studying to be a PE teacher or a pediatrician. Her favorite Explo project was based in photography, where she spent time viewing the campus through different perspectives and capturing some of Sabot’s beauty that often gets overlooked. She’s going to miss the opportunities to connect with children of all ages. She states, “I have made so many amazing relationships that I would have never made if I did not go here.” Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Adam, who came to Sabot in 7th grade. He’s off to Monacan High School, where he imagines a future in basketball and soccer. His favorite Explo project was when he created a stop-motion video of a wrestling match. He fondly remembers how welcome he felt from students and staff when he started at Sabot; he immediately felt at home. He’s going to miss the time spent outside. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

Leaning into the Umbrella Theme for the year, Movement, as well the children's interests, our preschoolers in the Rainbow Room and Garden Room created this interactive obstacle course for Umbrella Celebration Night. Our teacher-researchers write, "Obstacles are a part of life, both literally and figuratively. Our job as educators is to show children that the best way to overcome an obstacle is to go through it. There is no one way to get through an obstacle; each child has processed their unique outcome on their own." #sabotumbrellaproject #umbrellanight #umbrellanightcelebration

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Anna, who came to Sabot in 5th grade. She’s off to Trinity Episcopal School, where she imagines a future studying to be an equine therapist. Her favorite Explo project was when she made jewelry inspired by the 1990s. One of her favorite memories of Sabot is spending time outside and the 6th-grade pet, a turtle named Poseidon. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

Speaking of movement, let's talk about how money moves! Our 4th grade Spanish class recently embarked on an exciting journey to explore the vibrant world of mercados, delving into the broader theme of how money moves within different cultures. They began by watching a video to understand what a mercado is and then engaged in a lively discussion comparing grocery shopping in the US to mercado shopping in Spanish-speaking countries. Through this, they identified various shops like pescadería, carnicería, panadería, and frutería, and learned the vocabulary for different produce items such as naranjas, pollo, arroz, and fresas. They also explored the concept of currencies, focusing on euros, and how money facilitates transactions in different countries. In collaborative groups, the students were assigned specific shops and tasked with making lists of items to sell, materials needed, and creating shop signs in Spanish. They practiced shopping dialogues with classmates to prepare for the big event—Mercado Day. On this day, armed with fake euros, they invited 3rd and 5th graders to come and shop at their creatively crafted stalls, simulating a real-world economy and demonstrating the movement of money within a marketplace. #4thGradeSpanish #MercadoProject #CulturalLearning #MoneyMovement #HandsOnLearning #LanguageFun

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Julia, who came to Sabot in kindergarten. She’s off to the Steward School, where she imagines a future studying to be a neuroscientist. Her favorite Explo project was when she worked with a friend to make miniature food. She will miss the Sabot community, and how her class felt like a big, weird family. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

2nd grade made a movie! Click the 🔗 link in bio to watch Legotown. While exploring the big idea of Movement (our Umbrella Theme for the year), the children discovered that movement tends to have a sequence and a rhythm. 2nd grade teacher-researcher Jen explains, "Through investigating how our bodies move with our joints, we took the next steps of creating a sequence of movements by making a phonotrope, praxinoscope, zoetrope, a mural with a variety of movements, as well as a Wizard of Oz movement system with the characters." The next logical step—create a Lego movie, of course! There were so many incredible project displayed during our Umbrella Night Celebration this year. Thank you to everyone who made it out. #umbrellanight #umbrellanightcelebration #sabotumbrellaproject #sabotschool https://vimeo.com/948158987/e8864dc13b?share=copy

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Penelope, who came to Sabot in preschool. She’s off to Open High School next year. To no one’s surprise, her favorite Explo projects have been centered around art, specifically her black and white project and watercolor project. She says that above all, she will miss the community and the teachers and staff at Sabot. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. 🎓 Meet Kenny, who came to Sabot in kindergarten. He’s off to James River High School, where he imagines studying for a future in meteorology. His favorite Explo project was nature photography, where he went into nature every day in the spring to capture inspiring shots. One thing he will miss next year is the time spent in the forest. Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

Thank you Fireman Davis for visiting with our preschoolers today! The Nook loved every moment. 🧑‍🚒 ❤️ 🚒 #richmondfiresafety #richmondfiredepartment #sabotschool

With graduation just around the corner, we’re taking some time this week and next to celebrate and spotlight each of our soon-to-be graduates. Meet Shayna, who came to Sabot in preschool. She’s off to the James River High School Center for Leadership and International Relations. Her favorite Explo project is when she studied hairstyles through time. She will miss the way that students are able to interact with each other across grade levels. She says, “It’s really special getting to see the younger kids and be a role model in that way.” Congratulations to the #SabotClassof2024! We can’t wait to see what happens next! 🎓 #classof2024 #graduationcountdown #middleschoolgraduates #futureleaders #nextchapter #congratulationsgraduates

One of our auction items from this year's Gala was an "Inflatable Walk" with Kate Murray (aka Koala Puff) and Chris Hackenberg (aka The Air Dancer). The Rainbow Room was lucky enough to have been gifted this experience, and spent a hilarious and memorable afternoon hanging with these characters on our beautiful campus. Thanks to Lauren Tucker for purchasing this experience and supporting our programs in doing so! #sabotschool #sabotgala

Field Day 2024 is a wrap! What a blast! #sabotschool #sabotfieldday

The GROW Community Garden is having their annual Garden Party on May 29, 2024 at 4:00 pm in the garden. There will be child-led garden tours, seedlings for sale, and even tastings of produce grown in right here in our garden. This event is open to all and cash-only. We hope to see you there! 🌱🌸 #growcommunitygarden #sabotschoolgarden #richmondgarden #richmondnatureschool #getoutdoors #progressiveeducation #learningthroughplay

True to it's name, the Umbrella Project Celebration will go on - rain or shine! We can't wait to see you tonight at 6:30. #umbrellanight #umbrellanightcelebration #sabotschool #sabotumbrellaproject

Did you know that our very own math teacher Mike Pisarcik is also a chef? 👨‍🍳 He's currently an amature contestant in a competition and could use your vote! Mike says "Cooking and baking makes the world melt away. It's an awesome feeling to put so much love into a dish, and then have that love nourish the ones with whom you share it." "Favorite Chef" is a cooking competition sponsored by Bravo's Top Chef celebrity chef Carla Hall. Click the 🔗 link in bio to vote (fun fact: you can vote every day!) We love highlighting the amazing things going on our Sabot community. If you have special news to share, feel free to reach out to communications@sabotschool.org. #favoritechef #favoritechefcontest #sabotteachersrock https://favchef.com/2024/michael-pisarcik

This year our community has been thinking about Movement. This common theme, which we call our “Umbrella Project” has driven inquiry, sparking all sorts of provocations from aqueducts to migration. We are so excited to share our work with the community tomorrow during the Umbrella Project Celebration, starting at 6:30. The Nook, featured here with our music atlieresta Jāna, is READY to show off all things movement! We can’t wait to see you there! #umbrellaproject #movement #richmondelementaryschool #Richmondpreschool #ReggioPreschool #richmondschools #sabotschool #reggiomusic #reggioinaction #constructivisteducator #constructivisteducation #richmondmiddleschool #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren

Thanks to the amazing initiative of 5th grader Lorena Rodriguez and her Girl Scout troop, Sabot now has its very own "Buddy Bench"! Lorena, along with her troop, raised funds through a yard sale for their capstone project. Their mission? Building Buddy Benches for schools in the area. Despite attending different schools, the troop made sure all the troop's schools were included. The Buddy Bench is a colorful spot where students can sit if they're feeling lonely during recess or lunch, signaling that they're looking for someone to play with, and offering an invitation for others to connect. Lorena and her troop took charge, building and painting the bench themselves, leaving a special mark with a sign that reads "Made by Girl Scout Troop 3654." 🎨👭 Thank you to Lorena and troop 3654 for spreading kindness and friendship at Sabot School! #BuddyBench #KindnessMatters #girlscoutsrocks

Last week 3rd grader Roman Vinson placed first in her category in the Spring Splash Figure Skating Competition! This is her 4th year competing and her 8th gold metal! Way to go, Roman! Last week 3rd grader Roman Vinson placed first in her category in the Spring Splash Figure Skating Competition! This is her 4th year competing and her 8th gold metal! "I love the feeling I have before I get on the ice before a competition. I always start with butterflies in my stomach, but once I finish the performance... it just feels amazing. Like no other feeling. The audience is clapping and the judges are smiling and you know you did the best you could do. Plus everything you wear sparkles and there's glitter covering LITERALLY every inch of you. You know it's a great sport if there's glitter involved." -Roman Madeline Vinson, Grade 3 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! #sabotstudentsrock #iceskating #sabotschool

Are you as excited for the Umbrella Project Celebration as we are?? Join us this Thursday at 6:30 to witness and celebrate the culmination of student work across all grades, united by a common theme: Movement. We can’t wait to see you there! ✨☂️✨ #umbrellaproject #umbrellacelebrationnight #richmondelementaryschool #Richmondpreschool #reggioinaction #constructivisteducation #richmondmiddleschool #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren #learningthroughplay #reggioemiliaapproach #100languages #reggioinspiredteachers

"We must teach our children to smell the earth, to taste the rain, to touch the wind, to see things grow, to see the sun rise and night fall - and [most importantly] to care." - John Cleal At Sabot School, we believe in slowing down, unplugging, and fostering a deep connection with nature. Part of our mission is to provide experiences that allow children to truly engage with the world around them. Through hands-on exploration and outdoor learning, we cultivate a sense of wonder and caring for our planet, nurturing future stewards of the Earth. #richmondnatureschool #Richmondpreschool #richmondelementaryschool #getoutdoors #natureschool #ReggioPreschool #constructivisteducation #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggioinspired #learningthroughplay #playdiscovercreate

Wahoo! With graduation just around the corner, our 8th graders are thrilled to have been accepted to, and will be attending*, the following schools. We are so proud of their Reach and Research, and so grateful to the faculty and staff that supported them throughout the application process! 🙌 🎓 • The Appomattox Regional Governor's School for the Arts and Technology* • Blessed Sacrament Huguenot School* • Clover Hill High School, Math & Science Specialty Center • Cosby High School, Health Sciences • James River High School* • James River High School - Center for Leadership and International Relations* • Lloyd C. Bird High School, Engineering Specialty Center • Maggie L. Walker Governor's School for Government and International Studies* • Monacan High School* • Monacan High School, Center for the Humanities* • The New Community School • Open High School* • Richmond Community High School* • Saint Gertrude High School* • St. Catherine's School* • Steward School* • Thomas Dale High School - Specialty Center for the Arts • Trinity Episcopal School* #sabotschool #sabotgraduates #sabotstudentsrock #richmondhighschoolacceptances

Summer is almost here, which means A Sabot Summer is right around the corner! Priority Registration ends this weekend, but there are still spots left - sign up before space runs out! Campers will play soccer, explore the forest, and tap into their creative potential all summer long. Sabot pairs with Youth Outdoor Workshops of RVA to put on high energy, one-of-a-kind programing here on our beautiful campus. Learn more by clicking the 🔗 link in bio. Sign-ups are on the Parent Portal. #ASabotSummer #richmondsummercamps https://www.sabotschool.org/a-sabot-summer

3rd grade built a working aqueduct! What started off as simple marble runs evolved into water movement, ancient engineering, and real-world problem solving. From brainstorming to heavy labor, students learned science, teamwork, and the importance of resilient problem solving. Read the full Sabot Story by clicking the 🔗link in bio. https://www.sabotschool.org/being-moved-the-story-of-a-3rd-grade-aqueduct #richmondelementaryschool #sabotschool #reggioinaction #constructivisteducation #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #learningthroughplay #reggioemiliaapproach #100languages #reggioinspiredteachers #reggioelementaryschool #education #umbrellaproject

Last week, 8th grade had a fantastic experience at Shalom Farms that included a discussion about food justice, a tour of the farm with tastings of fresh greens, and time to assist the volunteers with the day's harvest. The students are now busy producing segments for a podcast episode that will include clips from their time at Shalom. Thank you Shalom Farms for hosting us! #shalomfarms #shalomfarmsrva #sabotschool

A few belated photos from this year's Bike Week! #sabotschool #bikeweek #getoutside

Have you met our new atelierista Lauren Bishop? While Lauren might be new to some, she’s actually a Sabot School veteran, having worked with us from 2014-2018. Lauren has a background in illustration, art education, and nature studies. Even though Lauren has only been here a few weeks, she's already fit right in, providing guidance and inspiration to our children in Preschool through Grade 2 as they make their learning visible. From Lauren: "These pictures capture an impromptu moment with second grade. We had been exploring watercolor's affordances for representing the aurora setting in their class narrative. When a child pulled up their wet painting, puddles were left on the table from the saturated artwork. Together, we used a dry paper to capture the "ghost print" of her artwork left behind on the table. Several children burnished the paper on to reveal a print which the child liked more for her composition than the original painting. Moments like these are magical and offer in-context acquisition of new skills, expanding their vocabulary with a material." With Umbrella Project Celebration Night just around the corner, we know all of our classes are hard at work on a variety of different projects. We can't wait to present them to you on Thursday, May 23 from 6:30 - 7:45 pm. #reggioatelierista #atelier #atelierista #atelieristas #Richmondpreschool #richmondelementaryschool #ReggioPreschool #sabotschool #reggioinaction #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggio #reggioinspired #reggioclassroom #100languagesofchildren #reggioinspiredteachers

Not to brag, but we have the coolest playground in Richmond. 🌳✨ Sabot School sits adjacent to the 106 acres of magical Larus Park. Classes spend time in the woods on a regular basis exploring, making forts, playing pretend, and learning from nature. #richmondelementaryschool #richmondnatureschool #getoutdoors #natureschool #richmondschools #sabotschool #progressiveeducation #reggioemilia #reggioinspired #learningthroughplay #reggioemiliaapproach #reggioelementaryschool

Last week, Kindergarten took a field trip to Jackson Ward to explore the stunning street art and history of this important district in Richmond. Tour guides led our children around the area and sparked conversations about the differences between art and graffiti. Students discussed the diversity of the images, noting many contained portraits of influential African Americans. They spent considerable time discussing the artwork of Matt Lively and Hamilton Glass. Kindergarten teacher-researchers shared "With the help of our tour guide and our own noticings, wonderings, and inquiry we now have a deeper understanding about what the artists were trying to share when they painted this mural." What a great day filled with great conversations. Thank you to everyone who helped put this trip together! #jacksonward #richmondstreetart #richmondwalkingtour #sabotschool

According to lore.. “The elusive creature will come to trust the children at play until, one fine spring day, the Sabot dragon will appear on the playground with a basket of berries for all to enjoy”🍓 Thank you Sabot Dragon for keeping the magic alive! ✨ #sabotschool #sabotdragon

In case you’ve wondered about what sort of letters our children send to the Sabot Dragon… 💚 #sabotschool #sabotmailservice #sabotdragon

Sabot teachers are simply the best! Teachers, thank you for everything you do in and out of the classroom every day to support and guide each child. You are the beating heart of Sabot and we appreciate you! 🧡💚🤍 #teacherappreciationday #teacherappreciationweek #weloveourteachers #sabotteachers #sabotteachersarethebest #simplythebest

It's Flower Day! 🌺🌸🌼 Each year our students express their appreciation for their teachers and other staff by presenting a single flower (or other bit of nature) to each of the adults at Sabot with whom they work. This is a beautiful, cherished tradition, and one that warms the hearts of every teacher and faculty member on campus. Thank you to P@S for organizing once again! #weloveourteachers #sabotteachersrock #teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationday #sabotteachers #sabotschool

We are grateful to be part of a community that values physical mark-making. 📝 In an increasingly digital world where typing is becoming the norm, our students engage daily in authentic experiences where they put pen (or pencil) to paper. Observational drawing, writing notes and letters to exchange messages, and storytelling are just a few examples that occur in all of our classrooms, from preschool to grade 8. #handwriting #literacy #observationaldrawing #sabotschool