William R. Jevne Memorial Fund
Happy New Year!
We are filled with gratitude as we reflect on the incredible generosity shown by our community during our recent fundraising campaign. Thanks to your support—whether you donated, shared our social media posts, or helped spread the word—we were able to raise $7,600!
On top of that, with the help of our anonymous match donor, who pledged an additional
$10,000, we are thrilled to announce that
$17,600 will be added to our Tuition Assistance Fund. This generosity directly benefits students, families, and our entire school
community, ensuring that we can continue to provide more children with the opportunity to experience the magic of Five Acre, where every child has room to grow!
While our match campaign has concluded, you can still contribute to our general fund or Tuition Assistance fund at any time. Remember, ALL donations are tax-deductible.
Thank you again for your continued support! We are excited about the opportunities that 2025 will bring and look forward to what we can achieve together in the year ahead.
As we wrap up our fundraiser this week, we want to take a moment to share something truly special with you. This week’s feature video gives you a glimpse into one of our favorite community-building traditions—our All-School Sing session, where Kindergarten through 6th grade students come together to make music and memories.
One of the unique aspects of our school is our multiage classrooms, where students of different ages learn alongside one another. These classrooms aren’t just a way to teach— they’re a way to create
bonds. In our multiage environment, older students often take on leadership roles, teaching and guiding the younger ones, while the younger students bring fresh perspectives that can teach the older ones in return. This dynamic fosters a deep sense of community and encourages peer-to-peer learning in a way that truly enriches everyone involved.
And when you add music into the mix, magic happens! Music, whether through singing, playing, or listening, creates connections that transcend age and background. It encourages creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking, while enhancing memory and cultural awareness. And, of course, it brings joy and a touch of playfulness, which is something we all need in our lives.
We are so grateful for your support during this fundraising effort, which helps us continue to provide these enriching experiences. We couldn’t do it without the amazing contributions of our school community!
Thank you for your generosity and for helping to make our school a place where students can lead, learn, and grow together.
“A community is a place where people support each other, like especially when they are going through a tough time. It's like a tribe. But people can be different and have different beliefs and still support each other.” - Harmony, 4th grade
At Five Acre School, we believe that community is the heart of learning and personal growth. Students, teachers, and families work together to create an environment of support, respect, and shared responsibility. A strong community encourages collaboration, builds lasting friendships, and makes everyone feel valued and connected.
By embracing the diverse talents, ideas, and perspectives within our school, we not only strengthen our academic achievements but also foster a sense of belonging and care that extends beyond the classroom. Together, we can achieve more and make our school a place where every individual thrives.
Each year I hear that our community is a large reason for families continuing to send their children to Five Acre School. We are cultivating a love of learning and a sense of joy in community while also developing a sense of self in each student. This week I talked with students about community and their responses brought me hope for our future. Investing in children and Five Acre is investing in the future!
"Ten Things that Bring me Joy” -Lucian, 4th grade
Writing
Reading
Math
Hike
Books
Soccer
Chess
Project
Running
Fiber Arts and Art
Recently, I asked our students what “Where Children Have Room to Grow” means to them. Their responses ranged from “I don’t know” to “Room to be yourself and explore.” Hearing their thoughts on a motto I use every week was a powerful reminder of the pure joy and wonder that come with working alongside children. They approach life with such truth and innocence, and it made me realize how easily adults can lose sight of the simple things that matter most. Time spent with kids keeps me grounded, reminding me to stay in the moment and embrace a positive outlook, even when the world feels overwhelming.
As we continue nurturing both our children and community, there are many ways you can help make a difference! We’re always in need of classroom volunteers—whether it’s assisting with math, reading, hiking, or recess, there’s an opportunity for everyone to get involved. Another meaningful way to support Five Acre School is through our current fundraiser. Your generous donations help provide vital tuition assistance, reallocate funds to boost teacher salaries, and enhance our playground equipment.
No contribution is too small, and every donation counts. Please consider donating, sharing, and spreading the word. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of our school and the children we serve.
Reminder - Donations are being MATCHED, and all contributions are tax-deductible!
Thank you for your continued support!
22
We’re excited to announce that a generous donor is matching contributions to our campaign again! For every dollar you give, they’ll match it dollar for dollar—up to $15,000!
Here’s how it works: If we raise $10,000 by December 23rd, our donor will add an extra $5,000! This is an incredible chance to double your impact and help more families access our tuition assistance fund.
Pro Tip: Many employers offer donation matching programs. Check with your HR team to see if your gift can go even further!
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, all donations to Five Acre School are tax-deductible.
Words in Bloom
At Five Acre School, the annual poetry unit is a highlight of the year. The creativity and excitement it sparks linger in student work for months. Here's a gem from this year’s poetry festival:
“Candlelight”
by Wolf, 3rd grade
Candle, candle burning bright
In the middle of the night
Stack the books, make a height
Read them all by candlelight
Throw out the headlamp, it’s too bright
Gives my cat a fearful fright
Don’t need any, in this night
All we need is candlelight
Donor Gift Levels
As a thank-you for your generosity, we’re offering exclusive donor gifts
Your support directly benefits our students and their families. Let’s make this campaign a success—together!
On a winter’s day in 1994, a vision was created, a plan was hatched, and the work began… 30 years ago, Five Acre School was founded with a mission to inspire children (and adults) to love learning, foster creativity, celebrate individuality, and build a supportive community for growth.
This year, we are thrilled to celebrate this incredible milestone -
30 years of transformative education!
As part of our milestone celebrations, we are excited to launch our annual campaign to support the William R. Jevne Memorial Fund for Tuition Assistance, ensuring that future generations of students can experience the same nurturing environment that has shaped so many lives over the past three decades. The William R. Jevne Memorial Fund was established by Juanita in memory of her late husband, Bill Jevne, whose vision for the school was rooted in creating a space that would enrich the lives of children and families, regardless of their financial situation.
In honor of this milestone, Juanita Ramsey-Jevne, one of the visionary founders of Five Acre School, will be sharing her personal story about the creation of the school. Her reflection on the journey of Five Acre School will be featured throughout the year — an inspiring testament to the power of community, commitment, and education. The first part of her story can be found HERE, with more to come in the near future.
Over the next five weeks, we’ll be sharing spotlights that highlight aspects of Five Acre School. Our tuition assistance fundraiser provides an opportunity for our community to give back and help shape the future of our school. Your support will directly impact families who may not otherwise be able to afford tuition, making a Five Acre education a reality for more children in the years to come.
Your generous contributions will help provide the financial support needed to ensure that the transformative experience of Five Acre School continues to be available to all. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant impact on the lives of future students and families.
We are grateful for your support as we continue this incredible journey together — 30 years and counting!
With gratitude,
Sarah Bones
Director, Five Acre School