Springfield Sudbury School Newsletter

April/May 2007

Springfield Sudbury School will complete its first school year in May. Our first year of operation was both exactly and nothing like we expected. It was so true that giving rise to this project was much like giving birth – we knew we were in store for one of the hardest, most rewarding experiences imaginable; yet we had no reference point with which to imagine.

The students and staff of Springfield Sudbury are pleased to look back over all that occurred within this year. We opened a brand new school, formed a community, and learned to live side by side with individuals pursuing their internal cues without diminishing the cues of another. We experienced miracle after miracle in the form of pathways opening for the school to continue in its natural progression. We celebrated holidays together, raised funds, navigated changes, and went to our first Prom. It was indeed a magical year.

As this school year draws to a close, the process of evaluation inevitably begins. In terms of growth and knowledge added to our individual and collective wisdoms – the success has been immeasurable. We have also realized that in terms of business ventures and investment of resources, our continuing efforts are just not sustainable at this time. We have been heartened by an influx of interest as of late; but proceeding into subsequent years would require an infusion of resources that is yet to materialize.

Springfield Sudbury School will continue to be a not-for-profit corporation recognized by the State of Missouri and the IRS. The current Board of Directors will maintain contact and conversations to maintain a window of opportunity for the reemergence of the school, and for additional school years to manifest. It remains our dream that the Springfield metropolitan area will be able to enjoy the option of educating our children in an environment of freedom, respect, and responsibility.

We would encourage anyone with a passion for this model of education, and a willingness to volunteer their resources to contact us. We will continue to facilitate connections of people with similar interests. Should a cohesive, strongly endowed group form in the future, we would gladly assist, instruct and/or provide all the foundations previously laid to allow this vision to take form once again.

Thank you all, for everything you have provided to this Dream. The mere fact that you are reading this newsletter indicates a level of interest that sustained our hopes and efforts through some very difficult times. Thank you to those who donated without expectation. Thank you to those who inspired us to continue on at our most bleak moments. Every note of encouragement, donation of goods, provision of time, commitment, and effort are appreciated beyond words. We are truly, truly grateful for every thought, word, and deed that supported the realization of this vision – regardless of duration.

Sincerely,

Springfield Sudbury School