Dear Middle School Parents, 

As you may have heard, during our upcoming Community Service Week on April 7-11 our Middle School students will spend part of a day working at Bellair Farm in southern Albemarle County. A portion of the produce harvested this spring will go to local food banks. All grades will be paired with current or past Chapel buddies and find themselves mulching the fields, working in the seedling greenhouse, or undertaking other small projects under the direction of the Farm Manager. Most advisors will be joining the students. 

The Farm Manager has made it clear that if the forecast is for heavy rain he will cancel. Also, he has just informed us that his wife is expecting their third child next week! If she goes into labor, the farm will close and the visit will be canceled. 

Below are more specific details to guide you. Please click here to download the complete schedule. 
 

Transportation: All students and faculty will be transported by school bus to and from the Learning Village.

Clothing: Children should be dressed in appropriate farm wear and footwear (boots or old sneakers, as they may get wet and muddy) when they come to school on the day they are going. If we have light rain, we will continue working, in which case showerproof clothing is necessary. Working gloves are not necessary, but students may bring their own (please write a name inside).

Labor: Students will be divided into two groups (A & B) and will do some of the tasks listed on the schedule. Groups of 10 students may be tasked with other age-appropriate farm chores. The main chores are mulching the fields and dividing seedlings.

Other: There will be water stations, porta-johns, and hand sanitizer available. Special medication, for those children who require it, will be brought along by teachers.

Lunch: A boxed lunch will be provided by the school for all students and faculty at no charge. Those with dietary requirements need to inform the Middle School Office before Friday, April 4. (Children may bring their own packed lunch, if they must, but they will be responsible for their lunchboxes.)

I think this promises to be a very special time for our students as they reconnect with old buddies and learn a little about the basics of farming. Parents are welcome to visit the farm during the spring and summer months to see how the crops are growing. I am sure your child will be happy to show you around. If you have any questions, please contact the Middle School office.

With all good wishes,
 

Hunter Price
Dean of the Middle School