Compassionate Schools Project Educator Retreat
The Contemplative Sciences Center hosted the Compassionate Schools Project Educator Retreat on July 22, 2026. Sixty educators attended from Charlottesville City Schools, Albemarle County Public Schools, private schools, and the Charlottesville/Albemarle community.
Retreat offerings included yoga, tai chi, massage, sound bath, nature and poetry journaling, contemplative practices, crafts, African drumming, dance, introduction to CSP, Flourishing Thru Chronic Too-Muchness facilitated by CSC Executive Director Kelly Crace, and a closing practice led by Tish Jennings, Professor of Education at UVA and co-author of CSP’s Flourish curriculum.
Following is a sample of the feedback from retreat participants:
- The Contemplative Sciences Center is a BEAUTIFUL and peaceful space. It provided natural light and opportunities to engage with nature while also being cool and quiet.
- This retreat was soothing and allowed for the mind to quiet.
- I honestly can’t stop thinking about the generous space, the gorgeous architecture that added to the overall effect, the invitation to nature whether inside or out. It was stunning.
- I am using Dr. Crace’s reflective practice and sharing it with others.
- It was a lovely and relaxing educator retreat with enriching sessions, nourishing food, and new perspectives to improve wellbeing.
- A Treat Retreat! It was a big hug for ourselves and reminder to teach with grace towards our students.
- A feeling of peace and hope.
- A restoring day of connection with other educators.
- A one-of-a-kind experience all educators should be able to take advantage of in order to strengthen their practice, wellness and relationship with themself.
- I described the retreat as “My perfect day” to everyone who inquired about my experience.
This extraordinary event to celebrate educators was made possible by a generous gift from Karen Leshner and the Intrepid Philanthropy Foundation. We are grateful to the philanthropists whose vision and support made the dream of the Contemplative Sciences Center a reality.
