February 25, 2022
Chesapeake Academy's mission: to inspire each student to approach learning with 
curiosity and creativity, 
pursue excellence in all endeavors, 
and act with integrity--
so each can make our community and world a better place. 
The Head's HU: This is How We Roll!

One of the key functions of the Board of Trustees is to set the strategic vision for the school. Attached is a copy of the vision, goals, and strategies of the 2021-2024 CA Strategic Plan as approved by the Board of Trustees in June. The plan came together over the course of last year in meaningful work by the Board committees. The Board reviewed VAIS accreditation standards and expectations to ensure the plan addressed those areas. Committees analyzed the strengths of the school and challenges revealed by COVID. They tried to "see around" to post-pandemic circumstances. Last winter, we shared the draft of the vision statement with the broader community. We asked parents to participate in a (lengthy!) survey on all aspects of school life to help shape strategic plan priorities.

In order to help our community best understand the process, outcome, and “state of the school,” we've embedded a link to a recorded zoom conversation between members of the Board of Trustees, Richard Abbott, and me. It's only 20 minutes, so I hope you will take the time to listen so that you are fully informed on school operations and aspirations. This school, so important to our community, has great things ahead!



Vision (updated 2021:

Consistent with the mission and philosophy, Chesapeake Academy will continue to build a dynamic, robust educational program, rooted in a solid foundation of core subjects and the arts, with an instructional approach that is innovative, differentiated, and project based. Chesapeake Academy will fully develop the Arts &Innovation integrated skills curriculum to ensure that across grade levels and disciplines, students have technological and design thinking skills to apply in a variety of ways. 

In order to cultivate and sustain an inclusive climate where all belong, Chesapeake Academy will evaluate the program of the school, enrollment outreach, hiring process, board composition, and community engagement with a goal of broadening the diversity of perspectives. Chesapeake Academy will solidify its position as an essential community institution that can capitalize on the Arts & Innovation Hub as a resource for the community. Chesapeake Academy will maximize partnerships with local organizations and seek to expand resources to the children in the broader area through those partnerships, on-campus activities, and educational services. 

Chesapeake Academy will plan financially for sufficient revenue to support the mission and strategic vision of the school, ensuring that the school can hire and retain exceptional staff, provide adequate financial assistance for families, invest in instructional materials, and maintain appropriate facilities to carry out the program of the school. Chesapeake Academy will evaluate potential income streams to supplement fundraising and tuition revenue, including building the endowment and exploring additional fee based services. 

Mission (updated 2017):

To inspire each student to approach learning with curiosity and creativity, to pursue excellence in all endeavors, and to act with integrity – so each can make our community and world a better place.

Philosophy (updated 2010):

Located in historic Irvington, Virginia, where the Rappahannock River meets the Chesapeake Bay, Chesapeake Academy is a school dedicated to preparing each student for future academic, ethical, social, and physical endeavors in an intellectually challenging environment.
Bound by common goals and aspirations, Chesapeake Academy students experience an academically challenging, traditional liberal arts curriculum taught by teachers who model creativity, commitment, flexibility, teamwork and a love of learning. Intellectual curiosity is valued, laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning, growth and achievement. Our caring and supportive environment guides children to develop confidence in their abilities. In all aspects of school life, teachers know their students well. This relationship allows teachers to address differences in learning styles and teach in ways children will experience their greatest achievement.
In keeping with our heritage, Chesapeake Academy students are an interconnected community of learners. Our school, guided by a purposeful social and ethical curriculum, is a place where friendships and consideration for others thrive and responsibility and leadership develop. We embrace each other’s beliefs and differences and discover that our diversity enriches us. The school’s community, formed by a unique partnership of parents, students, teachers, alumni and neighbors, works together to help children achieve academic excellence and personal growth. We believe students learn best when teachers, parents and children work in harmony.

From Age 3 through Grade Eight, Chesapeake Academy students develop and articulate ideas. The inclusion of visual and performing arts in the curriculum encourages self-discovery and creative expression. The physical education and athletic programs promote life-long personal fitness and character development. School-wide experiences and community service opportunities encourage students to be comfortable expressing their ideas in front of others as well as assuming future leadership roles.

Chesapeake Academy believes that an enriched and challenging academic curriculum, within a nurturing, child-centered environment, provides the foundation for future successes.

We seek:
  1. to prepare each student for his or her future academic, ethical, social and physical endeavors
  2. to provide a nurturing environment where students build confidence as they rise to the challenge of developing new skills
  3. to model creativity, ignite curiosity, demonstrate commitment and flexibility, work as a team, and lay the foundation for life-long learning in our students so our students demonstrate the same values
  4. to foster strong relationships between students and teachers to allow teachers to know students well and address each student’s learning style
  5. to cultivate an interconnected community of learners where friendship, consideration, responsibility, and leadership thrive
  6. to embrace each other’s beliefs and differences and discover that diversity enriches us
  7. to work in harmony with parents, teachers, and students for the students’ academic achievement and personal growth
  8. to encourage self-discovery and self-expression through the integration of the arts 
  9. to promote life-long fitness and character development through athletics
  10. to engage in school-wide and community service so that students are comfortable expressing their ideas and assuming leadership roles
  11. to develop global citizens who value a pluralistic society and who have the skills to tackle 21st century challenges.

Please let me know if you have any questions. The Board and I welcome your feedback.
CA Summer Camps 2022 will be here before we know it! Plan for a summer of fun, exploration, and discovery at CA! CA Summer Camps are top rated by Virginia Living Magazine each year, and spots are limited. Don’t wait! Many weeks had waiting lists last summer!

Camp Irvington Ages 4 through rising first grade; $250/week except where noted; Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Campers explore each week’s theme through age-appropriate field trips and activities. All activities and entrance fees are included. 
Is it fictional? June 20 – June 24
Is it a book character? Can I do it, too? Campers will try out adventures found in some of our favorite books. Whether it’s bike riding, making snacks, or exploring, this week is full of fun that should not be missed!
Is it aquatic? June 27- July 1 $250
Is it a fish? Does it have bones? Welcome to CA’s own shark week! Campers will learn about these fascinating creatures and some fictional friends like Clark the Shark in the Shark Zone. 
Is it on a picnic? July 5 - July 8 $200
Is it on picnics? Does it fit in a picnic basket? Campers will spend the morning preparing for their picnic by creating a picnic basket with special snacks and activities based on clues. Each afternoon they will picnic and play at a fun mystery location. Of course, this week includes splashes of red, white, and blue! 
Is it on a farm? July 11 - July 15 $250
Is it on a farm? Is there a barn? Campers will explore life around the Northern Neck, learning what is grown in our area and what animals live on a farm. Look for fictional farm fun, too! A visit to a teaching farm will add to the excitement! 
Is it buoyant? July 18 - July 22 $250
Is it buoyant? Does it sink? Young scientists will explore their environment to find out what floats. They will make predictions, conduct experiments, and record results. All that time around water will also keep campers cool. Some experiences will occur in different locations around the Northern Neck. 
Is it colorful? July 25 - July 29 $250
Is it colorful? Is it multicolored? Colors reflect our feelings and help us to express ourselves. Color allows us to stand out or blend in. Campers will learn about rainbows, mixing colors, expressing emotion with color, camouflages, and their habitat colors. Campers will use their heightened color senses when exploring the animals at the zoo. 
Is it green? August 1 - 5 $250
Is it green? Can I help? Become a planeteer at CA Camp! Campers will explore the beautiful environment of the Northern Neck and learn ways to keep it clean and green. So much positive power will have everyone enthusiastically green!
Camp Chesapeake Rising second through eighth grade; Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. except where noted; fees for each week are listed below.

Campers will explore each week’s theme through age-appropriate field trips and activities. All activities and entrance fees are included. 
Girls, Gizmos, and Gadgets (GGG) June 20 - June 24, 8:30 a.m. to noon, $125
Specialty camp for girls in rising 4th grade through rising 8th grade.
Chesapeake Academy is going big again with our STEM-focused GGG! Making full use of CA’s Arts & Innovation Hub, campers will design and code robots to perform a variety of tasks, create their own pieces using the 3D printer and laser cutter, and compete in fun challenges! This is a week that will inspire and energize your young inventor! 
Art Exploration? June 20 - June 24 1:00 p.m to noon, $125
Afternoon camp for students in rising 4th grade through rising 8th grade.
Not to leave it at STEM, Chesapeake Academy is excited to put the “A” in STEAM! Students will discover their inner artist through exploring different mediums, art challenges, and more! This is sure to be a week full of artistic growth and creativity!
Northern Neck Explorers June 27 - July 1, $250
Find adventure in and around the water! This favorite camp is back with new activities and destinations. Campers will love exploring parks, swimming, and having new adventures--a perfect way to see all the exciting things the Northern Neck has to offer! 
Fun Day Sundae July 5 - 8, $250
Nothing is more patriotic than a cool ice cream after a hot summer day of adventure! Campers will participate in daily trips and activities such as bowling and beach time. Each day will include a cool treat at local ice cream destinations. We’ll try our hand at making homemade ice cream, too! Of course, expect splashes of red, white, and blue celebrations all week long! 
Farm to Table July 11 - 15, $250
This exciting and delicious week is back! Campers will travel around the Northern Neck learning about local foods as well as harvesting and growing techniques. We will also seek the expertise of local chefs to learn more about how our food is prepared and try our own hands in the kitchen. New cooking experiences combine with old favorites to make this a can’t miss week of delicious meals! 
Mystery Tour July 18 - 22, $300
Chesapeake Academy’s famous mystery tour is back again! New destinations and surprises make for a thrilling week where no two days will be the same. There is something for everyone at this camp. Mystery Tour will keep campers guessing what fun is to come each day! 
Mad Science July 25 - 29, $250
Through experiments and activities both on and off campus we will explore the exciting world of science! Fun filled, hands on experiences make this a dynamite week! Embrace your inner scientist and join the fun! 
Animal Adventures August 1 - 5, $300
Calling all animal lovers! Campers will travel to local zoos and farms to see regional and exotic animals. Each day is sure to be a unique adventure as we see awesome animals up close. Campers will discover critters and creatures of all stripes, spots, and colors! All entrance fees are included. 
Academic Awards
Most Improved Student
Nathan Rafael 5
Stella Mayhew 6
Herman Gill 8

Teachers Award
Ryann Kenner 6

Head of School and First Semester
Kate Johnson 5
Avery Caisee 5
Charley Manetz 5
Miriam Sisson 5
Yvelisse Cabocel 6
Izzy Dew 6
Alex Fulmer 6
Matthew Harte Hackney 6
Evan Hinton 6
Ryann Kenner 6
Finley Major 7
Chase Carneal 7
Parker Daley 7
Quenton Harding 7
Ian Jonson 7
Sam Antonio 8
Trevor Haynie 8
Harrison Hinton 8

First Semester Head of School
Ethan Wills 5
Skyler Casey 6

Second Marking Period Head of School
Stephanie Bowhey 7
Valerie Edmonds 7
Herman Gill 8
PALS Presents Harriet Tubman and the Undergroud Railroad

Chesapeake Academy's Performing Arts and Lecture Series (PALS) presented Virginia Repertory Theatre's "Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad" to students from third through eighth grades on Wednesday, February 16 in the Osprey Dome.

The players showcased the life of Harriet Tubman and her history with the abolitionist movement from her early years in slavery and her time as a conductor on the underground railroad. The program shows Tubman as a freedom fighter in every sense of the word: a spy for the Union Army, a nurse and scout…to a champion of the suffrage movement, fighting for everyone who suffered inequality.

PALS programming is funded by the Wiley Foundation with support from the Virginia Commission for the Arts.
Class Acts...
Chesapeake Academy 3.0: Blended Learning
The Pitter Patter of Patterns in Pre-K

Pre-k students have been patterning all year and recently began translating patterns to different mediums! A pattern block pattern became a letter pattern became a sound pattern! Excitement mounted when letter patterns translated to notes on a xylophone! Music ensued! Next up...more patterns!
The Final Frontier in First Grade!

First grade has been eagerly studying space! As they studied the Milky Way they were excited to learn all about the planets in our solar system, the Main Asteroid Belt, the Kuiper Belt, and the Sun. The cherry on the cake was being able to see and touch real moon rocks, moon dust, and portions of asteroids from NASA. Together, first graders worked hard to create a model of their portion of the galaxy. First graders are truly out of this world!
The Bards of Third Grade Get Busy

Third graders have been using the writing process--prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing--to write their own "There Was an Old _________ Who Swallowed a _____________" stories. Young authors brushed up on their rhyming skills and flexed grammar and spelling skills as well.
No Simple Solutions!

Imagine this: fifth graders were just elected the leaders of imaginary islands. Unfortunately, the islands have not been economically successful and thus are classed as developing nations. The European Union has decided to invest $500 million, so students had to choose from a list how to best spend that money to improve the lives of their citizens.

Students discussed the options within groups, debating how the choices would impact citizens. After checking their math to make sure they didn't overspend, students posted their choices and reasoning to a discussion forum.

Next up: Students will get to read and reply to their peers, practicing their written communication. 
Remember Punnet Squares?

If you have seen a swarm of seventh grade science students recently, be assured their meanderings are purposeful. With advanced and Mendelian genetics as their topic, seventh graders took their learning mobile as they searched the science room and hallway for QR code clues to scan that would reveal a question for them to answer. Students explored incomplete dominance and co-dominance. What a great way to learn about punnet squares and genetics!
Coach's Corner

We've enjoyed being back on the basketball court this Winter and are proud of the efforts that our Ospreys have shown. 

The JV basketball team won their final game against Ware in a nail biter! Ospreys worked together and kept pushing themselves to finish the game strong, which earned them the 11-10 win! Throughout this season, the team has grown in their overall knowledge of the game and skill thanks to Coach Keplinger's dedication and foundational coaching. They were a fun group to watch, and we're all excited to see what next season holds for them!

The varsity girls team worked hard to come together this season, and they should be proud of their growth on the court. During our short season, the team has pushed through many ups and downs, but they came each day with a positive attitude and the desire to improve. After a long break between games, the team finished the regular season with two games against a talented Ware team, and then they faced another strong opponent in the ISAC semifinals against Aylett Country Day (ACDS) where they played their best game yet! It was so exciting to see the team put everything together that they've been working on in practice. After the lead went back and forth throughout the game, we ended in an 18-18 tie and went into overtime! Despite our solid defense and best offensive efforts, the team came up a bit short in the end losing by six points. Although we may have lost the game, we didn't lose at all thanks to the team's tenacity on the court, their camaraderie, and their winning spirit! We're excited about what the future holds for these Ospreys!

The varsity boys had one of their best seasons in recent history, and they picked up a big win in a back and forth game against ACDS when we hosted them in early February. Throughout the season, the team went from talented individual players to a strong team who used each other's talents to be successful. This growth and upbeat energy can be attributed to a passionate and intentional Coach Shields. Under his guidance, the team continued to improve each time they stepped onto the court, and we all have enjoyed watching them play! After a tough loss at Ware, the team bounced back in their ISAC Semifinal game against ACDS where the game went down to the wire again! Throughout the game there were several lead changes, good defensive stops, impressive offensive possessions, and the game came down to the wire yet again; this time, the two point win went to ACDS. The varsity boys' team should be proud of themselves, and they have set the bar high for next year's team!  

As you can tell, we are excited about what the future holds for our student-athletes and our athletic program! Thank you for all your support over the past two seasons, and we can't wait to see you back on the sidelines again next fall!

Go Ospreys!
Coach Allen
Osprey About Town, Susan May

A lifelong learner, Chesapeake Academy's librarian Susan May has just completed Pathways to Learning and Leadership Online Courses, through Union Presbyterian Seminary.

The program is comprised of ten online courses taken over a two-year period. The coursework is part of the process for becoming a Commissioned Pastor (CP) in the Presbyterian Church (USA). A CP is a lay pastor position.

Ms. May has already had opportunities to use knowledge from her coursework at her local church.
Attitude of Gratitude

  • In a welcome blast from the past, former Athletic Director Ian York dropped by last week with yummy treats for the faculty from Carried Away Cuisine!!
  • A special thank you to the sweetest wee cupid William Harrison (pre-k) and his wonderful mom (Tiffany Harrison) for the Valentine treats.
  • The Jonson family treated the faculty to delicious Valentine's Hershey kisses!
  • While most of us reach for an extra cup of coffee on a frosty morning, Business Manager Richard Abbott is generally at school at o'dark early salting walks and drives to protect Ospreys from frigid falls!
  • Thanks to Charley Manetz and Brynleigh Allen for running a wee daycare for faculty kids while their parents are in morning meeting!
  • Thanks to all the great parents who make admission referrals!
  • Thanks again to the most flexible supportive faculty any where!
Save the Date


3/2 PALS, Richmond Ballet, virtual performance, pre-k through eighth grade, 9:30 a.m.
3/2 Dress Uniform
3/4 Interims Mailed
3/4 Pizza Lunch
3/4 V Boys Basketball @ Veritas, 4:00 p.m.
3/11 Pizza Lunch
3/17 St. Patrick's Day
3/18 Pizza Lunch
3/24 Pizza Lunch
3/25 End of Third Marking Period, half day for students
3/30 Tag Day
4/1 Report Cards
4/6 Dress Uniforms
4/8 Pizza Lunch
4/11 through 4/18 Spring Break
4/21 PALS, "Little Pigs"
4/22 Earth Day
4/22 Pizza Lunch
4/27 Tag Day
4/27 Faculty Professional Development
4/29 Pizza Lunch
5/4 Dress Uniform