Community
Who is a Chance Family?
Chance families see early childhood education as an essential investment in a child’s long-term achievement and their core development as a person, which can never be understated- this is the like-minded thread that brings our community together.
Chance families are uniquely aware of their child's capabilities, through their observations in their child's earliest months and years. This keen awareness is what brings them to their search for a school that will challenge their child's mind but not dull their personality. Our parents have high standards for their high-performing children and want them to have a best-practice education. And they are focused on an essential long-term goal: developing healthy, resilient, and capable students who are thinkers, problem-solvers but also emotionally intelligent and self-aware.
Our families hold the value of education in common, and their diverse experiences and socio-economic backgrounds enrich the school. They allow us to prove the rigor of our program and the inclusive nature of our school through anti-racism practices and teachings to children and shared with parents. The school also welcomes families of all faiths and does not promote any one belief or practice.
Chance families appreciate the tremendous value of teaching to a child’s abilities – not “teaching to the test.” For this reason, they’re comfortable with their child’s progression to mastery without strict letter grades through our progressive education program. Chance parents believe that giving children a voice in what they are learning leads them to make discoveries and choices for themselves – the most potent form of learning.
In addition to providing nutritious snacks and chaperoning field trips, parents often contribute to learning. Your visit might be an informal one – just to observe your child at school. Or it may be a visit you have planned ahead with teachers to share a story, a hobby or profession, a collection – whatever is age-appropriate and meaningful. Families are asked to share family and cultural traditions to broaden students’ respect for the richness that differences bring to the world. On occasion, classes invite parents, grandparents, and special friends for visits, presentations, and performances to celebrate the year’s growth and development.
Equally important is the relationship that parents and teachers develop. It is in a child’s best interest that adults work together and channel their efforts productively, appropriately, and respectfully. Parents are encouraged to contact the school at any time and share questions or concerns.
Parents’ Association
All Chance parents can join the Parents’ Association, which has many functions, from fundraising to family outreach. Parents’ Association is a great way to meet new friends and the Chance community while supporting its mission, programs, and activities. There are many fun ways to get involved. Consider your talents and interests and volunteer- you are welcome here!
Financial Support
In addition to making timely tuition payments, we rely on your financial generosity during Virginia Chance School’s two annual campaigns: Challenge for Chance and Auction. We strive for no less than 100% parent and faculty participation- in amounts that you can. The revenue from these campaigns provides for the balance of operating expenses, enhances current programs, contributes to the school's socio-economic diversity, and strengthens the school's future.