A community of persons
In 2023, some mamas met at a virtual Charlotte Mason conference and found a kindred spirit in the same city. They decided to meet together for a nature walk, Shakespeare reading, and mama book club and see if there were any other CM families nearby. That trial turned into a Nature Club, Nature Club turned into a co-op, and then that co-op grew into the Abundant Feast Community we have today. At its core, Abundant Feast Community is a community of whole persons - parents and children - supporting and encouraging one another on the journey of a Charlotte Mason lifestyle and education.
Our Values
Attention, Obedience, Truthfulness, and Respect
These are the central habits we strive to train and expect from everyone in our community.
Attendance
Our community shows up for one another and fills in for one another when someone is missing. All parents have an active role - teaching, assisting, cleaning, etc.
Shared Aim
There are many options in Hampton Roads for educational communities that families can be a part of. Our community is mutually aimed at a Charlotte Mason education and all teaching strategies, work assignments, class selections, etc. are made through a CM filter.
Healthy Conflict
We expect timely, open communication and respectful conflict resolution. We expect hurt feelings, unmet expectations, mistakes with consequences, and many other learning opportunities. After all, this is a community of persons. As a community, however, we will deal with our conflict directly - person to person - in a timely manner. We will offer apologies and encourage forgiveness.
The Only Education is Self-Education
We expect our students to come attentive and ready to learn. No teacher or parent can force them to learn.
Mama Book Club
We expect our parents to model a love for learning so once a month we prioritize our own reading and discussion. This core program is required for all community mamas.
Shared Weight
We expect to share the financial cost of doing this work together, while keeping costs low. We also share the preparation work, supply necessary materials, and support one another with curriculum help and lesson planning assistance.