Fall 2025 Newsletter
- Christen Parker-Yarnal
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
As the weather (finally!) cools and our days fill with creativity, exploration, and connection, we’re excited to share what’s been happening at The Miami Sudbury School this Fall.
From ice skating adventures and a bustling art studio to new projects, penpals, and community stories, our learners continue to show what self-directed education looks like in action. We hope you enjoy this glimpse into our vibrant, ever-evolving community—and feel inspired to share it with friends who’d love to see young people learning with joy and purpose!
Art Studio Activity
This year started off with the Art Studio in high demand. Getting certified to use the hot glue gun is a major accomplishment and lots of fun. One of our new students has several times now set up a “store” for her unique art creations, giving everyone special tickets to purchase her art. Our self-directed art studio is very different from an “art class” at most schools. Learning to choose your materials, having the time and space to truly be creative, and then having the responsibility to clean up after yourself build the skills of a true artist.
Ice Skating
Again this semester students proposed and planned trips to the ice skating arena! It’s a wonderful time for our community to skate and play together.
Built To Play
Parent Discussion Circles
This year we launched a monthly Parent Discussion Circle to support and strengthen our community. Our first gatherings focused on supporting self-directed education and navigating screen time, and the conversations were thoughtful, honest, and deeply connecting. Sharing our experiences and reflections reminded us how valuable it is to learn and grow together. As our children take ownership of their learning and their lives, we as parents grow alongside them—learning to trust the process, and each other, in community.
Staff Search Beginning Soon
Our long-time beloved staff members Nick and Alyssa are moving to Tennessee Summer 2026. We are so happy for them as they begin this next adventure — though they will be dearly missed in our daily community life.
It also means that we’re beginning the search for a new staff member to join our team soon.
If you know someone who is curious about self-directed education, loves being in community with young people, and thrives in a setting with freedom, responsibility, and collaboration, please send them our way!
More details and the full job description here.
Sudbury International News
Sudbury International Network is growing and buzzing with initiatives, activities and connections:
Sudbury International Blog
is a great resource to learn about the Sudbury Model from experienced practitioners.
Sudbury International Community Book Club
You are invited to join the Sudbury International Community Book Club! It's a place to read, discuss, learn and think about education and parenting with like-minded people from all over the world.
Spring Valley Sudbury School Connections
Our students are excited to be part of the Sudbury International Pen-Pals initiative, started by our friends at Spring Valley School in Florida.
To deepen these connections, we’re planning a visit to Spring Valley this November!
Board Member Spotlight
Annick Sternberg
We want to spotlight one of our wonderful Board Members, Annick Sternberg. Annick has supported The Miami Sudbury School since our early years, letting us use the restroom at her home near Brewer Park when we used to regularly frequent that lovely place. She welcomed our students to explore her front yard native garden and enjoy the LIttle Free Library she maintains. She’s given us bins of legos and boxes of dollhouse furniture, art supplies, and more. She’s been like a “fairy godmother” of creative support. Though she and her husband will be moving back to her native Belgium this month, she will continue to support the school as a board member and her gifts will continue to enrich and inspire our school community.
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