![]() Henrico, VA - At Lynnhaven School, the motto "Learn. Think. Grow." doesn't just apply to students. Our faculty and staff are committed to improving their craft and contributing to the broader educational community. Mrs. LaShanda Melendez returned from San Diego, CA recently where she participated in and presented at the 2024 Education Summit @ Esri User Conference. This annual international event offers educators the opportunity to explore innovative approaches to include mapping technologies in their classrooms. Mrs. Melendez, who has served as a teacher and Dean of Teaching and Innovation at Lynnhaven and her son Carlos Disla, an active supporter and volunteer at Lynnhaven School, gave a Lightning Talk titled "Gateway to GIS: Empowering Education for the Uninitiated." This session focused on tools that teachers can use to help students build critical thinking through spatial analysis skills. Teachers at Lynnhaven have used these tools and skills in Science, Math, the Humanities, and in their Solutions class. This was demonstrated at the Spring Showcase in May, where visitors had the opportunity to see the StoryMap titled Period Poverty created by Tori '24, Abbey, '24, and Amaya 24' and the StoryMap titled Felony Disenfranchisement created by Grace '24. Lynnhaven School stands as a beacon of innovation and dedication to lifelong learning, higher-level thinking, and continuous growth. In the Richmond, VA landscape, Lynnhaven offers students a hands-on and authentic way to experience education. By incorporating tools like GIS, Lynnhaven students gain real-world skills that set them up for success in higher education and beyond. For more information about Lynnhaven School, visit www.tlsrva.org. Contact: Lynnhaven School 1538 E. Parham Rd. Henrico, VA 23228 Phone: 804-750-2300 Email: [email protected]
0 Comments
![]() We are pleased to announce the Appointment of a New Board Member, LaRee Sugg, and the New Chairperson for our Board, Shareema Williams. LaRee previously served on the board during Lynnhaven’s foundational years. “I am eager to bring my skills and experience back to this vibrant community. My background in higher education, community engagement, and fundraising, alongside my current role as Deputy Athletic Director at the University of Richmond, has prepared me well to contribute effectively to our shared goals. As a former parent of a Lynnhaven student, my commitment to Lynnhaven is both personal and passionate,” said LaRee Sugg about her recent appointment to the Board of Trustees. Bridgette C. Bywater resigned from her position as Board President this month. “It was an honor serving Lynnhaven on the Board of Trustees. As a parent of a Lynnhaven Student, I know firsthand the power of the mission and vision, and the positive impact it has on the students enrolled there. I look forward to witnessing the growth and success of the school and am confident it is in good hands with the current Board of Trustees. I wish the students, the staff, the Lynnhaven families, and the board the very best in the future,” said Bridgette Bywater regarding her recent resignation. Replacing her is Shareema Williams. Shareema Williams has been a Commercial Lender Senior Vice President since 2022 and has 17 years of direct banking experience. “Lynnhaven School is a unique haven for gifted learners who don’t fit the traditional school model. The school fosters an environment of inclusivity, independent thinking, and creative license, ensuring students remain focused and engaged. Reflecting on the lack of such opportunities during my own educational journey, my involvement with Lynnhaven's board and other school matters has underscored the necessity of this remarkable institution. With significant changes on the horizon, stepping into the role of Board Chair was a call I felt compelled to answer. In this capacity, I am dedicated to ensuring Lynnhaven School meets its educational goals and maintains its financial goals,” said Shareema Williams about her recent election to Board Chairperson. “Lynnhaven was well served by Mrs. Bywater, over the past year. I am grateful for her invaluable leadership and wisdom while Lynnhaven went through the process of moving campuses. I am excited welcome Ms. Sugg back to the board and to work with Mrs. Williams more closely as our newly elected chairperson, as we enter into our next strategic planning phase,” said Head of School Dr. Casey Hitchcock. Lynnhaven School is Richmond's only Project-Based Learning high school. They provide a social learning experience built on the principles of progressive education. Each and every student is expected to pursue successes, to celebrate victories, and to learn from defeats. It is through self-reliance, integrity, compassion and humor, that the students embrace and balance the freedom to be, with the responsibility to do! Media Contact: Dr. Hitchcock -Head of Lynnhaven School Contact Info: [email protected] or 804-750-2300 Web Address: www.lynnhavenschool.org ![]() Henrico, VA – Lynnhaven School is thrilled to announce that STEM teacher Brittany Usiak, has been accepted as a 2024-2025 Pilot Light Food Education Fellow. This fellowship is awarded by Pilot Light, a non-profit organization committed to supporting students as they learn and advocate for informed choices by bridging the lessons they learn in their classrooms to the foods on their lunch trays, at home, and in their communities. Each year, Pilot Light recruits and accepts a cohort of PreK–12th grade teachers from across the country who are passionate about integrating food education into their curricula. As a Food Education Fellow, Ms. Usiak will have the opportunity to develop and implement innovative food education lessons, helping students to connect their learning to the broader issues of sustainability, equity, and health. Ms. Usiak's selection as a Fellow is a testament to her commitment to enhancing equity bringing a social justice lens to STEM education at Lynnhaven School. Her involvement in this program will not only enrich her own teaching practices but also bring invaluable resources and insights to our school's curriculum. Through the fellowship, Ms. Usiak will receive support from Pilot Light's extensive network of staff, peers, and partners, along with access to a wealth of educational resources designed to refine and evaluate food education in the classroom. "We are incredibly proud of Ms. Usiak for being recognized by Pilot Light," said Dr. Casey Hitchcock, Head of School at Lynnhaven School. "Her dedication to her students and her innovative approach to teaching will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our school community. We look forward to seeing the positive changes that her participation in the fellowship will bring." Ms. Usiak will begin her fellowship in the fall of 2024, joining a dynamic group of educators who are leading the way in food education. Lynnhaven School eagerly anticipates the new perspectives and practices she will bring back to our classrooms, furthering our mission to provide a comprehensive and forward-thinking education for all our students. For more information about Pilot Light and the Food Education Fellowship, please visit Pilot Light's website. Contact: Lynnhaven School 1538 E. Parham Rd. Henrico, VA 23228 Phone: 804-750-2300 Email: [email protected] Website: www.tlsrva.org Lynnhaven School Celebrates Humanities Teacher Evan Liddiard's Selection as K-12 Educator Fellow4/15/2024 ![]() Richmond, VA - Lynnhaven School is delighted to announce that Evan Liddiard, Humanities Teacher, has been chosen as one of the distinguished K-12 Educator Fellows for 2024 by Virginia Humanities. This prestigious fellowship recognizes Mr. Liddiard's dedication to enriching classroom experiences through the humanities and fostering inclusivity in education. As a passionate educator at Lynnhaven School in Richmond, Virginia, Mr. Liddiard embodies the spirit of this fellowship, bringing his expertise and commitment to fostering engaging and inclusive learning environments. His selection as a K-12 Educator Fellow is a testament to his contributions to education in the state. Throughout the nine-month fellowship program, Mr. Liddiard will collaborate with a cohort of 16 other educators from diverse backgrounds and specialties across the state to develop innovative learning experiences aligned with the Virginia Standards of Learning. Together, they will create comprehensive lesson plans and professional development offerings aimed at enriching the pedagogical landscape of Virginia. "I am honored and excited to be selected as a K-12 Educator Fellow by Virginia Humanities," said Evan Liddiard, Humanities Teacher at Lynnhaven School. "This fellowship presents a unique opportunity to deepen my understanding of the humanities and collaborate with fellow educators to create inclusive and impactful learning experiences for our students." Mr. Liddiard and his fellow cohort members will focus on amplifying historically excluded populations and communities in their curriculum, ensuring that their lesson plans and learning experiences reflect diversity and inclusivity. Their resources will be made available online, free of charge, to educators statewide through the Virginia Humanities Education website. To learn more about Lynnhaven School, and our commitment to diverse perspectives and inclusive voices in history, visit www.tlsrva.org or contact Dr. Casey Hitchcock (804)-750-2300. Lynnhaven School Students Showcase Research at Virginia Council for Social Studies Conference3/5/2024 ![]() Farmville, VA - Lynnhaven School (Henrico, VA) students made a notable appearance at the Virginia Council for the Social Studies Conference, which took place at Longwood University from March 1st to 3rd, 2024. Abbey and Brooks, both from the class of '24 and members of Magnolia House, spearheaded a discussion with their poster presentation, "The Danger of a Single Story." Their presentation was a significant contribution to the conference's focus on "Teaching Hard History." Their exhibit showcased a research project that critiqued the traditional accounts of African descent peoples in the Americas from the 15th to the 18th century. This study stemmed from a Project-Based Learning (PBL) venture within their Pan-African Studies I course, centering around the question, "What was life like for people of African descent in the Americas in the 15th-18th centuries?" They embarked on a thorough investigation of primary documents and historical fiction, bringing to light the stories of lesser-known historical figures like Ona Judge, Olaudah Equiano, and Elizabeth Key. Their work highlighted the defiance and endurance of these individuals, offering a rich, layered understanding that is often missed in mainstream education. During the event, Abbey and Brooks shed light on the significance of including challenging aspects of history in education. They discussed how expanding the range of narratives enhances our grasp of history and contributes to a more inclusive representation of our collective past. They championed an education system that acknowledges the complexity of history, calling on educators to include a diverse and accurate depiction of underrepresented narratives in their lessons. Lynnhaven School is at the forefront of innovative educational approaches, empowering its students to tackle intricate subjects and working through complex projects. To learn more about Lynnhaven School, visit www.tlsrva.org or contact Dr. Casey Hitchcock (804)-750-2300. ![]() Henrico, VA – Lynnhaven School, Richmond's first micro-high school, is thrilled to announce its upcoming relocation to a highly strategic and vibrant location in the West End of Henrico County. Lynnhaven has secured a long-term and renewable lease for this site, ensuring its presence in this thriving community for years to come. "We are set to move to our new home at 1538 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA, in February, which will open up so many new opportunities for our students. With its direct proximity to Reynolds and ease of access to resources such as Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, our academic program will be getting a boost," said Dr. Casey Hitchcock, Head of School. The move to 1538 East Parham Road aligns seamlessly with Lynnhaven School's mission to provide the highest quality education and foster a nurturing environment where students can excel academically and personally. The strategic nature of this relocation will allow them to further enhance their educational offerings, drawing inspiration from the new surroundings. We look forward to sharing this exciting new chapter with our current and future Lynnhaven School families, and we invite the community to join us in celebrating this significant milestone. About Lynnhaven School: Lynnhaven School is committed to providing a transformative learning experience for students. Our relocation to 1538 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA, underscores our dedication to offering top-tier education in a vibrant and strategic setting. We continue to strive for excellence, empowering students to reach their full potential and thrive academically and personally. Families interested in applying or learning more please visit www.lynnhavenschool.org/become-a-lynx. ![]() Henrico, VA – Dr. Casey Hitchcock, Head of School at Lynnhaven School, conquered the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon in Buena Vista, FL on November 5th and the Richmond Marathon here in Richmond, VA on November 11th. With two races, in two states, in just one week. The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon, known for its magical course through the Walt Disney World Resort, served as a prelude to Dr. Hitchcock's ambitious week. Following this race, she continued her quest by tackling the Richmond Marathon, a challenging and iconic event held annually in the heart of Virginia. This year's race highlighted just why it is dubbed America's Friendliest Marathon, with perfect weather and cheering spectators lining the course. Dr. Hitchcock's achievement demonstrates her commitment to fostering a culture of holistic well-being within the Lynnhaven School community, leading by example through hard work, grit, and endurance. "I want everyone to know that when they decide to do something that seems impossible and they dedicate the time to make it happen, it can!" Dr. Hitchcock shared. She started training in June with the Sports Backers Marathon Training Team where she also volunteers. "Battling injury and illness this season made it more challenging than most, but I was able to pull off a big personal best and I'm looking forward to taking a little break before the next adventure," she stated. "I don't know how she does it," said a Lynnhaven parent. Lynnhaven School also had parents and students represented in the Richmond Marathon as runners and volunteers along the course. As a leader in education and an advocate for personal development, Dr. Hitchcock's success resonates with students, parents, and faculty members alike. You will see Dr. Hitchcock on the course alongside faculty and staff for the Tacky Light Run and the new River City Half Marathon in March. For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Alyson LeMaster, Dean of Enrollment & Innovation at 804-750-2300. ![]() Lynnhaven School, Inc. is delighted to announce that we have been awarded the 2023-2024 Purple Star Award by the Virginia Council on the Educational Opportunity for Military Children. This accolade recognizes our dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for our military-connected students. The Purple Star Award is a symbol of our commitment to going above and beyond to provide the best possible support for the unique needs of military families during the 2023-2024 academic year. Lynnhaven School, Inc. is a place where our military-connected students can thrive, both academically and personally. Our team is trained to address the distinct academic and emotional needs of our military-connected students. We have strived to ensure that military-connected students feel at home from the moment they walk through our doors, fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Dr. Hitchcock, Head of Lynnhaven School, Inc., expressed her gratitude and commitment to maintaining this level of excellence, saying: "We are immensely proud to be the recipient of the Purple Star Award. This recognition showcases our dedication to ensuring that our military-connected students receive the care and support they deserve. As a military spouse myself, it is a very personal mission that we maintain our high standards of inclusivity and support." Lynnhaven School is the only private school recognized in the Richmond Metropolitan area. We extend our gratitude to the Virginia Council on the Educational Opportunity for Military Children for acknowledging our efforts and look forward to continuing our mission to create an exceptional educational environment for all our students. For more information, please contact: Alyson LeMaster Dean of Enrollment & Innovation Lynnhaven School, Inc. 804-750-2300 ![]() Henrico, Virginia (October 9, 2023) – For the second year in a row, Lynnhaven School is one of 64 elementary, middle, and high schools across the United States to earn recognition through the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Campus K-12 program. The Arbor Day Foundation is the largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to tree planting. Its Tree Campus K-12 program, launched during the 2021-2022 school year, encourages educators to create meaningful opportunities for students to interact with trees. “We want to inspire young people to develop a lifelong respect for trees and understand the many benefits green spaces bring to communities,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Lynnhaven School is playing a key role in the effort to usher in a new generation of environmental stewards.” To earn this distinction, Lynnhaven School met four goals:
The recognized schools span 28 states. During the 2022-2023 school year, 22,478 students participated in tree-focused education, and more than 32,000 trees were planted or distributed by Tree Campus K-12 schools. Lynnhaven School was the first and only school recognized in the state of Virginia in 2021-2022 and is one of only two schools recognized in 2023. Other Arbor Day Foundation recognition programs include Tree City USA, Tree Line USA, Tree Campus Higher Education, and Tree Campus Healthcare. Working together, the five programs celebrate tree planting efforts at nearly every community level. To learn more and see the full list of recognized schools, visit arborday.org/K12. About the Arbor Day Foundation Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees. Together with our partners, we have helped plant more than 500 million trees in neighborhoods, communities, cities and forests throughout the world. Our vision is to lead toward a world where trees are used to solve issues critical to survival. Through our members, partners and programs, the Arbor Day Foundation inspires people across the globe to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. More information is available at arborday.org. ![]() August 16, 2023 – Lynnhaven School is thrilled to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of the Virginia Naturally School Recognition from the Virginia Department of Wildlife. As just one of 14 private schools in the state to receive the recognition this year, it highlights Lynnhaven's commitment to environmental education, conservation, and fostering a deep appreciation for Virginia's natural resources among its students. The Virginia Naturally School Recognition program, administered by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, recognizes educational institutions across the state that demonstrate exceptional dedication to promoting environmental stewardship and providing students with opportunities to connect with nature. Lynnhaven School has continuously strived to integrate environmental awareness and sustainability into its curriculum through stand-alone classes such as Environmental Policy & Practice or its GIS-based Solutions course. From interactive nature studies and habitat restoration projects to hands-on outdoor learning experiences, Lynnhaven students are actively engaged in understanding and preserving the local ecosystem. The school's commitment to environmental education extends beyond the classroom, as they consistently encourage students to participate in community clean-up events, tree planting initiatives, and other conservation efforts. "We are truly honored to receive the Virginia Naturally School recognition," said Dr. Casey Hitchcock, Head of School at Lynnhaven School. "This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and staff in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. We believe that connecting with nature not only enhances our students' educational journey but also equips them to become thoughtful and conscientious stewards of our planet." Lynnhaven School's achievement in earning the Virginia Naturally School recognition exemplifies the institution's dedication preparing students for a more sustainable future. For more information about Lynnhaven School, please visit www.lynnhavenschool.org. About Lynnhaven School - Lynnhaven School is a project-based microschool located in Richmond, VA. With a strong focus on academic excellence and whole-student learning, Lynnhaven offers an innovative educational environment that empowers gifted, twice exceptional, and neurodiverse students to excel both inside and outside the classroom. For media inquiries, please contact: Alyson LeMaster Dean of Enrollment & Innovation 804-750-2300 |
AuthorCatch up on the latest school news involving students, faculty, and staff! Archives
July 2024
Categories |