“We’re a community school, and the community starts with us.”
-Alysoun Montijo
Welcome to Brompton Community School
Dear Families,
Welcome to BCS We are so glad you’re here
Brompton was founded by a mama who wanted something different for her children a better way to learn and live She imagined a school with no screens, copious outdoor time, and abundant play A place intentionally rooted in nature, where learning is joyful, academics are rich and rigorous, and mastery matters more than testing She envisioned teachers who care deeply, space for children to move and breathe, and an education that honors the spirit, heart, and fortitude within every child
That mama persisted until she built Brompton Community School, where every part of our program is intentional Every subject is connected Each experience is designed to carry students far beyond their time at BCS into high school, college, and life with a strong sense of self, community, and purpose
Beyond academics, our students learn that they are part of something bigger than themselves They discover that the world is wide, that humanity is good when we choose to be good humans, and that kindness, curiosity, and courage have the power to shape the future
At Brompton, education is both an adventure and a calling It’s grounded in research, guided by experience, and fueled by joy We’re so honored that you are curious enough to see what makes our school a place where learning feels alive
Welcome to our community
With warmth and gratitude,
Amber Dawson Head of School, Brompton Community School
School Culture
Our school culture is defined by collaboration, integrity, and a shared commitment to our mission We foster an environment where creativity, curiosity, and care are valued, ensuring every team member feels supported and empowered to do their best work. This spirit of respect and purpose not only strengthens our community but also directly enriches the experiences we create for our students and families In recognition of this, we were honored to be nominated as one of Fredericksburg’s Best Places to Work this year a reflection of the positive, mission-driven culture we strive to build every day.
Vision
Our vision is to reimagine education by blending the wonder of the natural world with rigorous academics We aim to nurture curious, resilient, and compassionate learners who are deeply connected to themselves, their community, and the environment.
Mission
To educate and honor the whole child by cultivating a reverence (deep respect) for the natural world, self, learning, and community so they become lifelong servant leaders
Our School
At Brompton we believe that children learn best through play, exploration, and guided discovery. Our curriculum is designed to support whole-child development by integrating the following approaches:
Nature Based
At Brompton, nature is both our classroom and our teacher Students spend meaningful time outdoors each day observing seasonal changes, exploring ecosystems, and developing a deep sense of wonder and respect for the natural world. This connection fosters curiosity, resilience, and stewardship that extend well beyond the school day.
We nurture the whole child mind, body, and heart Our intentional SEL approach helps students build empathy, self-awareness, and healthy relationships Daily routines, class discussions, and outdoor experiences provide opportunities for reflection and connection. Students learn to identify and manage emotions, resolve conflict, and build a sense of belonging that extends beyond the classroom into the broader community
Families are an essential part of the Brompton community We view education as a shared journey one that grows stronger through communication, collaboration, and connection Parents are invited to participate in the life of the school through volunteering, community events, and family learning experiences. Together, we create a supportive, joyful environment where every child can thrive.
Play is the foundation of curiosity, confidence, and creativity At Brompton, we believe that children learn best through hands-on, adventurous play - building forts, climbing trees, navigating challenges, and engaging their imagination. This type of play builds problem-solving skills, perseverance, and social awareness, allowing children to take appropriate risks and find joy in discovery while developing strong, capable bodies and minds
Our academic program is rooted in developmentally appropriate, research-based practice Foundational literacy and numeracy are woven naturally into play, storytelling, and exploration. We use evidence-aligned materials like UFLI for reading and Singapore Math for conceptual understanding, ensuring that children build strong academic foundations while maintaining a love of learning and discovery
Educational Philosophy
Although we borrow from other educational approaches, Brompton’s approach to learning is uniquely our own. We are guided by nature, rooted in community, and shaped by our belief that children learn best when they are curious, connected, and deeply engaged in meaningful work.
We are not Montessori: our classrooms extend far beyond four walls While we value independence and self-direction, we believe learning should also be collaborative, dynamic, and responsive to the natural world. Our students spend significant time outdoors, where curiosity leads the way and lessons come alive through hands-on, real-world exploration.
We are not Reggio Emilia: we are less bound by studio-based exploration and more connected to place-based, environmental learning. Like Reggio, we honor the child as capable and creative but our focus is on the relationship between the child and the natural environment as the third teacher, not the classroom space itself.
We are not Waldorf: while we embrace imagination and storytelling, we ground our academics in research-based curricula and align our instruction with modern understandings of literacy, numeracy, and child development. Our students benefit from both structured skillbuilding and open-ended exploration.
We are not Classical: though we value rigor, reasoning, and rich content, we believe education should engage the whole child body, mind, and spirit not just the intellect. Our approach nurtures curiosity and connection rather than competition, balancing academic depth with emotional intelligence and environmental stewardship.
At Brompton, we weave the best of these traditions into something new an education that is joyful, grounded, and deeply human
Our Vision:
The Brompton Community School grew out of a desire for a better way to educate and a dream to design a school that truly belongs to the community
BCS is a nature-based school with a rich curriculum filled with experiential learning, play-based learning and deep connections We are committed to fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and outdoor exploration among students and staff. We are dedicated to educating the whole child; mind body, and spirit Our days are spent mostly outdoors, rain or shine. Inside, our classrooms are sanctuaries, sacred places for kids to learn, dream big, explore, and develop a deep love of learning We do not teach to a test we teach for true comprehension Our goal is to meet each child where they are and commit to expanding and extending their understanding of the world around us, to teach them how to think critically, to foster independence & instill in each child a heart of compassion, grace, and leadership.
Our vision reflects our values: integrity, service, excellence, community, and sustainability. Our overall goal is to become the premier private school not only in Fredericksburg, VA, but to become the leading private school in the state of Virginia, and to serve as a model for nature-based community schools elsewhere in the United States and abroad.
Nature Connection
Nature Connection classes are designed to reinforce the foundational philosophy of our school through research-based, hands-on practices that build students’ capacity for being in nature.
The goal of our Nature Connection Program is to facilitate a meaningful connection with the natural world and to encourage students, staff, and community to live out that connection modeling a mindset of respect and reciprocity. Through immersive experiences, we seek to awaken sensory awareness, cultivate knowledge of place, and restore the bond between people and the rest of nature We recognize that building relationships and shifting perspectives take time, and that growth looks different for everyone.
Nature Connection Program Goals
Awaken Sensory Awareness: Strengthen the ability to use one’s senses to make careful observations.
Cultivate Knowledge of Place: Learn the terrain, habitats, and relationships among living and non-living things in our local environment. Restore the Bond Between People and Nature: Develop enjoyment and confidence outdoors through exploration, journaling, shelter-building, cultural study, and reflection.
Respect and Reciprocity: Understand that maintaining balance within an ecosystem means giving back as much as we take
Because we are a nature-based school, our aim is to foster natural literacy helping students develop curiosity, comfort, and personal connection with the natural world. Students go outside in all safe weather conditions, including rain or cold, because they are properly equipped with waterproof and warm clothing. Naturally, students are never sent outdoors in unsafe conditions such as storms or high winds
The Role of our Teachers:
Teacher-Student Ratio
Maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio is crucial for personalized learning and quality interactions At Brompton Community School, we follow DoDEA standards to meet or exceed national standards of learning
Each head teacher is licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia They are dedicated, caring, enthusiastic, and excellent role models for our students
Class Level Age Group
Small class sizes allow for individualized attention and active engagement in all activities
At Brompton, teachers are more than instructors—they are mentors, guides, and co-learners alongside their students. Their role is to nurture curiosity, model wonder, and create an environment where children feel seen, supported, and inspired to explore both the world and themselves.
Our teachers design learning experiences that are intentional yet flexible, allowing student interests and the natural world to shape the direction of study. They balance structure with freedom, ensuring academic rigor while protecting the joy and spontaneity of discovery.
Because we see education as relational, teachers invest deeply in knowing each child—academically, socially, and emotionally. They help students develop confidence, empathy, and a sense of belonging, while fostering independence and personal responsibility.
In the field, the classroom, or the garden, Brompton teachers guide students toward meaningful connections—with ideas, with each other, and with the living world. Their work is as much about cultivating character as it is about building knowledge, ensuring that every child grows into a thoughtful, capable, and compassionate learner.
Curriculum Overview
Our play-based, nature-focused, and holistic curriculum is designed to foster children's curiosity, creativity, and connection with the natural world. Hands-on learning experiences are at the heart of our approach, allowing children to explore and engage with their environment in meaningful ways We often integrate topics and projects across multiple content areas, providing a rich and interconnected learning experience.
The curriculum is flexible and adapts to the evolving needs and interests of the children, as well as the ever-changing natural environment This responsive approach ensures that learning remains relevant, engaging, and grounded in real-world experiences.
In addition to academic growth, we prioritize the holistic development of each child, focusing on their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive well-being Our goal is to cultivate a sense of joy and wonder in learning, while nurturing reverence for ourselves, our community, and the natural world.
1. Math
Singapore Math- based around mathematical problem solving, develops conceptual understanding, proficiency in mathematical skills and processes, and a positive mathematical mindset. In addition, we incorporate hands-on experiences and authentic tasks integrating nature and content area studies.
2. Phonics/Phonemic Awareness
UFLI (University of Florida Literacy Institute) Foundations provides systematic, explicit instruction in foundational reading and writing skills in grades K-2. Word study, vocabulary, and explicit spelling instruction follow in grades 3-5.
3. Reading/Writing/Mechanics of Grammar
We read and write across a variety of genres for different purposes connected to our content area studies and social-emotional learning. Rich read-aloud selections are used to build comprehension skills, vocabulary, and knowledge. At Brompton, students write across genres—storytelling, letter writing, reflection, research, and persuasion—learning to express ideas with clarity, creativity, and purpose. We use Michael Clay Thompson and other resources to provide a firm foundation in grammar and language structure.
4 Science/Ecology/Sustainability
Units are based on the Next Generation Science Standards and integration with the natural world around us. As an outdoor nature school we spend a lot of time emphasizing the importance of protecting ecosystem balance and giving students an opportunity to practice the program’s guiding principle of respect and reciprocity — giving back to nature while learning from it.
5. Geography/Social Studies/Latin
At Brompton, we study people, places, and cultures to understand both the world around us and our place within it. Through geography, social studies, and Latin, students explore how communities are formed, how they interact with their environments, and how individual actions can make a lasting impact. Together, these studies help students see themselves as part of a larger human story. They learn that knowing the world its people, its languages, and its histories empowers them to contribute thoughtfully, act responsibly, and make a difference in their own communities and beyond
Food & Allergy Policies
Lunch is provided daily by Foode All meals served will be nutrient dense, whole, seasonal, and nut free. Menus will be published on the school calendar and emailed out as soon as it is available to us. Parents are encouraged to let their child eat the lunch provided, even if they think their child might not like a particular meal Students will eat lunch outside or in their classroom Parents are welcome to join us for lunch but are expected to notify the teacher in advance. All visitors must check in with the office before joining their student.
School-Provided Meals & Snacks
The school provides nutritious snacks and meals daily, prepared following USDA child nutrition guidelines
All meals include balanced portions of proteins, grains, fruits, and vegetables
A monthly menu is shared with parents in advance
Students have access to fresh fruit every day for snack
Sample Monthly Menu:
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Turkey Burger with Pretzel Bun Whipped Sweet
Potatoes
Spinach Salad
Home-Packed Lunch & Snack Policy
Lemon-Dill Chicken Hummus
Tomato-Cucumber Orzo Salad
Veggie Fried Rice
Crispy Egg Rolls
Sesame-Ginger Green Beans
Yogurt & Granola
Tortellini with Marinara Zucchini & Squash Green Salad
While we prefer all the kids to eat the same lunch here we do understand that some kids have a more difficult time due to individual sensory or dietary needs In accord with our conservation focus, we strongly encourage the use of reusable packaging
Hot Dogs with Pretzel Rolls Pasta Salad with Chopped Veggies Brownies
Allergy Awareness & Food Safety
Staff members are trained in allergy response and emergency medical procedures Brompton is a 100% nut-free campus.
Parents may request meal modifications for dietary or religious reasons
Enrollment
Inclusivity Statement:
BCS is firmly committed to fostering an environment of equity, dignity, and respect. We do not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic in any of our activities or operations.We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, student body, families, volunteers, and vendors. We recognize and respect the diversity and expressions among our community members and affirm our commitment to creating a supportive and respectful environment for all individuals.
APPLICATIONS
At Brompton Community School, we strive to make the enrollment process smooth and transparent for all families. Below, you will find the eligibility requirements, required documents, and important policies related to admissions.
Application Deadlines
February 1, 2026
Completed application deadline for March 10th admittance. Please note that the entire application must be completed at this time
February 1, 2026
Financial Aid Application must be completed along with the required tax documentation in order for the financial information to be reviewed by the financial aid committee The Financial Aid will be rolled into the acceptance contract on March 7th.
March 9, 2026
Admissions decisions will be emailed out to parents.
March 24, 2026
Parent response due for accepted candidates and deposits due to guarantee a seat for your child
After March 6, 2026
Rolling Admissions (applications are assessed post March 6th as they are completed and admissions decisions are made immediately upon assessment)
Parents’ signatures and deposit to the enrollment contract are due two weeks after admittance is granted In circumstances where admissions is agreed upon in August or after school starts, we ask that the signatures and deposits are completed immediately upon receipt.
Candidates’ applications are reviewed for admittance after the start of school year as long as there is capacity in the grade
Private School Finances
Independent schools carry unique financial pressures. Staffing, our teachers and the heart of our program, makes up more than 70% of the budget. On top of that, we’re maintaining facilities, providing materials, and growing programs For a younger school like ours without reserves, even modest shifts can have a big impact.
Understanding Private School Finances: What Parents Should Know
For many families, enrolling a child in a private school is a new experience and so is learning how these schools operate financially. Unlike public schools, which receive funding from taxes, private schools rely on a mix of tuition and donations to cover expenses and grow Here’s a look at where revenue comes from, why tuition may change, and why schools often ask for donations on top of tuition.
Where Does the Money Come From?
For an established private school, most revenue typically comes from tuition Depending on the school, additional support may come from endowments, rental income from facilities, or auxiliary programs (like summer camps). Philanthropy is also a critical part of the picture, with gifts from parents, alumni, and friends making up a significant portion of many independent schools’ budgets.¹
For new schools, however, things can look different Without a financial cushion from endowments or long-established donor bases, new schools often rely heavily on tuition and community support just to cover the basics teacher salaries, classroom supplies, facilities, and insurance.
Every family contributes in different ways—through tuition, volunteering, attending fundraisers, or making donations. Together, these efforts strengthen the school community and ensure that students benefit from a well-rounded, sustainable education.
Why Schools Ask for Donations
It may seem surprising to be asked for donations when you’re already paying tuition, but tuition typically does not cover the full cost of a student’s education. Many schools, including Brompton, intentionally set tuition below the “true cost” to remain accessible to more families. Donations help bridge that gap, allowing the school to:
Fund financial aid for families who need it
Support program expansion (arts, athletics, outdoor learning, etc.)
Cover professional development for teachers
Invest in facilities, technology, and safety
As one independent school finance guide puts it: tuition “keeps the lights on,” while philanthropy “helps schools thrive and grow.”
Parent Involvement Opportunities
We cherish the involvement of our families and recognize the vital role volunteers play in our community. From assisting with classroom activities and outdoor learning, helping organize school events and fundraisers, groundskeeping, to chaperoning events, there are countless ways to get involved. Volunteering not only strengthens our school but also offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with your child’s learning journey and the broader Brompton family. We welcome and appreciate your support in helping us cultivate a nurturing environment for our students!
Classroom Involvement
Parents play a vital role in the life of our classrooms at Brompton. Volunteer opportunities might include supporting hands-on projects, reading with students, assisting during outdoor learning, sharing a skill or profession, or helping prepare materials for upcoming lessons. These moments not only enrich student learning but also strengthen the bond between home and school
*All parent volunteers must complete a background check before participating in school activities.
School-Wide Volunteering
Brompton thrives because of the time, talent, and heart our families share School-wide volunteer opportunities include supporting Run Club, participating in our EcoSchools initiatives, helping with fundraising efforts, joining the PTO, or assisting with community events and celebrations.
These acts of service strengthen our school community and model for students what it means to contribute with purpose. Whether you can give an hour or a season, your involvement helps make Brompton a place where learning, connection, and care extend well beyond the classroom.
