Reflection: The Pillar That Fuels Growth at Sagemont Prep
Mellesia Nelson, Head of School
At Sagemont Prep, our Educational Pillars serve as the foundation of the work we do every day, shaping how we approach learning, growth, and personal development While each pillar plays a crucial role in guiding our students and faculty, there is one pillar that stands out to me, and that is reflection. I often joke with my colleagues that I should not have a favorite, but I do and there’s a clear reason why.
The importance of reflection is deeply rooted in the same rationale behind our students' portfolios and their culminating student-led conferences at the end of the year. These portfolios are more than just collections of work; they are representations of growth. Reflection allows us to pause, look back, and recognize how far we have come while also identifying areas where we can continue to improve. For our students, it is an essential tool for both academic and personal development.
When we take the time to reflect, we are actively engaging in the process of self-awareness, which is foundational for growth. Reflection allows us to celebrate our strengths, acknowledge our achievements, and understand the efforts that contributed to that success. But it does not stop there. Reflection also challenges us to recognize our areas for improvement whether it's in a subject, a skill, or an aspect of our character it gives us the opportunity to develop strategies to grow further.
Without reflection, there is no real growth If we do not take a moment to look at what has worked well and what needs attention, we miss the chance to learn from our experiences and push ourselves forward. In fact, avoiding this process of self-assessment can lead to stagnation, as we stop asking ourselves how we can improve and evolve. For our students, reflection helps them stay motivated, focused, and empowered to continue striving for excellence.
Through reflection, we teach our students that learning is not just about the end result but about the journey. It is about understanding that setbacks and challenges are part of the process valuable opportunities for growth. When we encourage our students to reflect on their work, their learning, and their experiences, we are equipping them with the mindset of a lifelong learner, one that embraces challenges and continually seeks to improve.
At Sagemont Prep, reflection is not just a favorite pillar of mine; it is a vital part of how we prepare our students for success, both in school and in life.
As we reflect on this semester, our Sagemont Prep team invites you to join us on this journey So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, sit back, and explore the growth, achievements, and milestones we have reached together
Sincerely yours in transformative educational excellence, Mellesia Nelson
Felicia Myers, Upper Campus Principal
As the first semester draws to a close, we reflect on our students' academic strides and the impactful changes that have enriched their educational journey. This year, we launched three intentional academic initiatives designed to elevate learning and engage students at every level. These initiatives increased center-based instructional activities, a dedicated emphasis on writing across the curriculum, and the strategic promotion of higher-order thinking skills are fostering a dynamic and purposeful learning environment across all subject areas
One of our primary goals this year has been to expand hands-on, center-based small-group instruction. This approach ensures that students are actively engaged in their learning through collaborative and interactive experiences. By incorporating centers into every subject area, teachers can tailor instruction to meet diverse learning needs, providing more opportunities for students to explore concepts deeply and meaningfully. Whether through science experiments, problem-solving in math, or gallery walks in English, students benefit from this personalized and immersive approach to learning.
Recognizing the importance of strong communication skills, we introduced new writing-focused courses and opportunities for students this year. All middle school students are now required to take an additional writing course, with the 8th-grade curriculum modeled after the rigorous AP Research class. This course emphasizes research, analysis, and structured argumentation, preparing students for advanced academic challenges. For high school students, a new creative and college writing elective offers an outlet for self-expression and practical preparation for collegelevel writing
Enhanced writing opportunities have been integrated into every subject area, encouraging students to articulate their understanding and develop critical thinking skills. Whether crafting lab reports in science, reflective essays in English, or persuasive arguments in social studies, our students are building confidence and proficiency in writing across disciplines.
At Sagemont Prep we encourage our students and faculty to be innovators, so we do not shy away from technological advancements Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education, and one of its most impactful applications is in the teaching and development of writing skills. By leveraging AI tools and platforms, our teachers are empowering students to become more confident, effective, and creative writers. In fact, many of our new curriculum software purchases this year integrate AI-powered tools, and we have offered various professional developments to teachers on how best to incorporate these tools. We also educate our students on how to effectively harness the technology, while maintaining academic integrity and emphasizing original thought.
Developing critical thinking and communication skills is central to our mission, and this year, our teachers have completed extensive professional development, from Advanced Placement (AP) summer institutes to training in the Harkness discussion method Harkness discussions are student-led, round-table discussions that encourage thoughtful dialogue, active listening, and the ability to articulate and defend ideas. By placing students at the center of the conversation, Harkness discussions nurture independent thinking and collaborative problem-solving skills that are essential for success in both academic and real-world settings. All social studies courses are also incorporating Document Based Questions (DBQ), which requires students to analyze and synthesize historical documents to answer a prompt. Students must use evidence from provided primary and secondary sources, as well as their own knowledge of historical context, to construct a coherent and wellsupported argument. Normally these prompts are reserved for AP coursework, but by building skills these in all grade levels, students will be more prepared for the rigors of college.
At Sagemont Prep, our commitment to cultivating well-rounded students extends beyond academics, providing opportunities for leadership development and personal growth through diverse experiences. From cultural collaborations in the Culinary Club, where students mastered hibachi techniques and prepared raita, to immersive field trips like Art Basel Miami Beach, where they explored groundbreaking contemporary art from renowned global galleries, students are exposed to creativity and innovation. The Aerial Drone team, Lion Wings, is currently ranked 7th in the nation, showcasing excellence in STEM, while student leaders spearheaded a new Fishing Club field trip. The Synergy Rock Band earned the honor of performing at Universal Studios, and the theatre department celebrated a multitude of holidays in their creative reimagining of the production Scrooge. Bonding is most evident in the beloved annual Battle of the Grades, where school spirit soars, and students enjoyed oldfashioned fun during Field Day games, collaborative dances, and the highlight of the event, the main parade Moments like Senior Sunrise and the 8th Grade Experience field trip to Round One foster meaningful relationships and a sense of community, ensuring that every student is supported in their journey to becoming confident and compassionate leaders.
Monica Vigna, Lower Campus Principal
As we reach the midpoint of an extraordinary school year at Sagemont Prep, we celebrate the academic accomplishments and personal growth that define our students’ journey from preschool to 5th grade. From mastering foundational skills to embracing hands-on projects, our students have demonstrated curiosity, creativity, and resilience at every step.
Our preschool and pre-kindergarten students have embarked on an incredible journey, building a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and creative expression while nurturing their natural curiosity through the Links to Learning curriculum. With wide-eyed wonder and tiny hands hard at work, they explored neighborhoods and the roles of community helpers, crafting intricate 3D models of their homes and proudly presenting them to peers. These activities not only fostered creativity and confidence but also served as milestones in developing motor skills, spatial awareness, and a sense of pride and independence.
Bringing these explorations to life, literacy activities allowed students to express gratitude through heartfelt thank-you notes to community helpers and compose simple yet meaningful sentences about their favorite places. Our young learners’ joy was especially evident during our Read Across America celebration, where the book Piper Chen Sings inspired big dreams and reminded them of the beauty in diversity Artistic expression seamlessly complemented these experiences as students collaborated on vibrant murals of houses, parks, and community landmarks These projects cultivated teamwork, empathy, and self-confidence.
In our elementary classroom, the excitement of learning has been infectious. In every classroom, students have embraced challenges and worked together to dive deep into hands-on projects. Kindergarteners explored foundational math skills by mastering place value using manipulatives and building a strong numerical understanding. First graders dove into opinion writing with the Get Up and Go unit, confidently expressing their thoughts in creative and structured ways. In second grade, students expanded their geography knowledge by studying different landforms, fostering curiosity about the world around them.
Third graders delved into the fascinating world of science, investigating sense receptors and discovering how they help us experience our environment.
Our 4th-grade students had an enriching experience this semester at the Indigenous Festival field trip, where they learned about native cultures and traditions. Additionally, they excelled in the Roaring Readers and Leaders program, demonstrating significant growth in reading fluency and leadership skills Fifth graders focused on fostering kindness through acts of service and engaging with the Second Step curriculum, which supports socialemotional development. They also strengthened their vocabulary, comprehension, and understanding of text features, further enhancing their literacy skills. In addition, fifth-grade students worked on research projects and essays, honing their writing abilities and critical thinking skills.
Beyond academics, this semester was filled with moments of pride and connection. Sagemont Preparatory Lower Campus earned the 2024 Commission Cup and a $3,000 cash prize at the Rotary Run for Tomorrow’s 1-Mile Health Walk. This honor recognized our school for achieving the highest participation among elementary schools in Weston, bringing together students, families, and staff in a true spirit of community.
Other highlights included Spirit Week, which ignited school pride with creative dress-up days, and the PTO-sponsored Thanksgiving Luncheon, which fostered connection and gratitude Programs like Basketball Buddies built friendships across grades, and our thriving Robotics program highlighted innovation and teamwork. We are especially proud of our 4th Grade Robotics team, led by Mr. Leonardo, which earned an invitation to The CREATE US Open Robotics Championship in Iowa.
The second half of the year promises to be just as dynamic and enriching, with opportunities for students to showcase their talents and knowledge through signature grade-level projects. Whether they are building prototypes in STEM, embarking on interactive field trips like the Kennedy Space Center visit, or participating in celebrations of themes like Black History, Women’s History, and Native American Heritage, our students will continue to grow as thinkers, creators, risk takers, and leaders
Equally exciting is our commitment to strengthening connections with families through parent engagement events that emphasize partnership and shared purpose. Together, we will nurture each child’s unique potential, preparing them to face the future with confidence. Public speaking, teamwork, and innovative thinking will remain central to our mission, ensuring our students are academically prepared and equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world. We eagerly anticipate our Signature Showcase Night in May, where students will proudly present final projects reflecting entrepreneurship and innovation.
As we reflect on our students' remarkable progress and the collective joy of learning that fills our halls, we are reminded of what makes Sagemont Prep truly special: a community of learners who dream boldly, explore fearlessly, and grow together. The best is yet to come, and we cannot wait to see what the year’s second half will bring Let’s make it unforgettable!
Tera Sweeting, College Counselor
The College Counseling program at Sagemont Prep continues to excel in guiding students toward educational opportunities that challenge and inspire them to surpass expectations During College Week this fall, our students engaged in a dynamic panel discussion with university representatives, gaining invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of higher education. The discussion covered key topics such as the college application process, campus life, residential living, balancing academics with athletics, and strategies for maintaining overall well-being.
Our high school students engaged with the university representatives, demonstrating curiosity about the programs and opportunities available at each institution. Events like this fall's college panel highlighted the importance of early preparation as a foundation for building a competitive college portfolio. Beyond these on-campus experiences, our students have embraced a variety of enriching programs designed to shape their academic and professional futures. With the dedicated support of our college counseling team, they have explored diverse internships, pre-college programs, and summer opportunities tailored to their interests and aspirations.
As we enter the second semester, I encourage every student to amplify their efforts both in the classroom and within the community This is the perfect time to turn up the thermostat on academic rigor and engagement
To support our students’ journeys toward higher education, our college counseling department has planned several initiatives for the upcoming semester. These include grade-level Zoom meetings, a Spring College Fair, college tours, classroom visits, as well as presentations to evaluate each student’s progress. Each touchpoint is designed to provide personalized guidance, helping students align their academic and career goals with the right opportunities.
We remain committed to personalized support by offering one-on-one, in-person meetings with parents of students in grades 6–12. This collaborative effort ensures our families have the tools and id
Luann Burrows, Lower Campus School Counselor
At Sagemont Preparatory School, we recognize that fostering academic success is only one part of helping students thrive. To truly support their growth, we must also address the broader needs they bring to the classroom their social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and mental well-being. By embracing a holistic approach, we strive to ensure that every student feels supported, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential.
The Whole Child approach, developed by the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), embraces this philosophy. It prioritizes the full range of developmental needs to ensure students excel academically and grow into well-rounded individuals. A school committed to the whole child integrates these principles into every aspect of teaching, learning, and assessment At Sagemont Prep, this commitment is central to our mission We understand that each student is unique, and our goal is to create an environment where their social, emotional, and academic needs are equally prioritized We believe in educating hearts and minds and providing students with the tools they need to succeed academically and personally.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is a cornerstone of this effort at Sagemont Prep. Now in its second year, our implementation of the Second Step Program for kindergarten through grade 5 has had a positive impact. This research-based program helps children develop skills like managing strong emotions, setting and achieving goals, building friendships, demonstrating empathy, and resolving conflicts constructively.
To expand our SEL program, we are incorporating The Zones of Regulation program, which helps students recognize and manage emotional and physiological states. This program equips students with strategies to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, empowering them to navigate challenges and maintain focus.
The success of SEL programs relies on a strong partnership with families Parents play a critical role in reinforcing SEL skills at home Students benefit from consistent support and messaging across their environments when schools and families collaborate Open communication, shared strategies, and daily activities build empathy and self-regulation in children.
By linking these research-backed SEL programs, Sagemont Prep provides a comprehensive approach to fostering students’ social, emotional, and academic development. This balanced education helps students build the skills needed to succeed in school and life.
Alonda Williams, Senior Director for Education at Microsoft, aptly states, “The bottom line is that SEL improves academic outcomes, graduation rates, test scores, and overall quality of life and well-being.” As the School Counselor, my primary role is to support students’ social-emotional development by providing guidance, tools, and interventions to help them navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and reach their potential. We create a positive and nurturing environment that fosters learning and growth by working closely with students, families, and teachers.
At Sagemont Prep, our commitment to the whole child ensures that every student is supported academically, socially, and emotionally Together, we are building a community where students are equipped to succeed and thrive
Carissa Martinez, Upper Campus School Counselor
As the new school counselor at Sagemont Preparatory Upper Campus, my primary goal for the 20242025 school year is to foster an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. This year, I am excited to support our students in navigating their personal and academic growth and equip them with the tools they need to succeed now and in the future.
One of my main priorities is to provide social-emotional lessons that will help students develop strong communication skills and a deeper awareness of themselves and others. These lessons are designed to help students build emotional intelligence, practice healthy ways to express their feelings and strengthen their ability to work collaboratively with peers and adults By exploring topics like empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution, students will learn to foster meaningful relationships and navigate the complexities of interpersonal interactions
As many of our upper-campus students are beginning to consider their future after high school, we are also focusing on preparing them for college and beyond. This includes academic readiness and the skills required to transition into adulthood. We will work together to build a clear understanding of the college application process, selecting the right schools, and preparing for life as a college student. Alongside this, we will explore real-life expectations—addressing topics such as managing finances, understanding mental health, and developing healthy coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety.
Another key area of focus is organization and time management. These skills are essential as students balance academics, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities. We will work on creating strategies to stay organized, set realistic goals, and prioritize tasks effectively. By honing these skills, students will be better prepared to handle the challenges of school and life beyond high school
Lastly, we will focus on developing self-advocacy skills. It is important that students feel confident in speaking up for themselves, whether it is about their academic needs, mental health concerns, or personal goals. By learning how to advocate for themselves, students can become more independent and empowered in their academic and personal journeys
In addition to these foundational skills, I am always available to meet with students individually to address any personal concerns or challenges they may face. I am here to guide them, listen to them, and support them as they develop into young adults ready to take on the world with confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. My goal as a counselor is to help each Sagemont Preparatory Upper Campus student recognize their potential, build their confidence, and prepare for a successful future.
A T H L E T I C S
Shane Marcey, Director of Athletics
We have completed another successful fall season and are well into winter sports. Spring programming will soon be in full swing, and there is much to celebrate and reflect on so let’s dive in!
Sagemont Prep athletics started strong this year, with our volleyball program leading the charge. The varsity team kicked off their season with a 9-1 record, including a first-place finish at the Nike Tournament of Champions in Gainesville. The Lady Lions secured their third consecutive district title and came just one win short of their first-ever trip to the FHSAA Final Four
Our JV volleyball team returned to the court for the first time in years, delivering an excellent season and defeating tough opponents. Meanwhile, middle school and elementary teams advanced to league playoffs, showcasing success at all levels.
Our women’s golf team, led by Ariana Silva and Abby Lee, continued their winning tradition on the golf course. Abby qualified individually for the FHSAA State Championships, and both players earned their third consecutive Sun-Sentinel 1st Team All-Broward honors.
Our varsity swim team, though young, performed well throughout the season, with eighth-grader Sofia Martinez qualifying for regionals. Under Coach Sandi, the boys’ middle school flag football team improved steadily and pulled off several exciting upsets.
The winter season began with boys’ middle school soccer Cayden Marcey and Alex Collazos led the team in scoring, while Zach Davis stood out in goal Coach Vecere and her team achieved their best match record since 2019 We were thrilled to see our boys’ elementary soccer team return and advance to the league playoffs.
The men’s basketball team impressively opened their 2024-25 campaign, aiming for their third consecutive state championship. They defeated St. Frances Academy from Maryland at the annual Hoopsgiving event. They followed it with a buzzer-beater victory by Matt Able against nationally ranked Faith Family at Hoopsfest in Dallas. Next up is Hoopfest Paradise in Nassau. Do not miss the junior varsity and varsity teams’ return to their home court in January. Middle school and elementary basketball teams will begin their seasons after the holiday break.
Sagemont Prep athletics has enjoyed great success to start the 2024-25 school year, with much more to come Follow us on Instagram @sagemontprepathletics, and stay tuned for updates and spring offerings, including women’s beach volleyball, boys’ middle school volleyball, co-ed middle school track, and tennis GO LIONS!
Estefania Martinez, Innovation & Technology Coordinator
Your Sagemont Prep Lions are blazing a trail as innovators, coding rockstars, and drones/robotics enthusiasts! From elementary to high school, our students prove that age is no barrier to creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Through our robotics program, powered by the VEX platform, they are building robots and cultivating skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
Our robotics teams are showcasing unique strengths and talents. The 4th-grade team has demonstrated exceptional ingenuity and teamwork, earning an invitation to compete in Iowa this March a remarkable achievement that highlights their dedication and skill. Meanwhile, the 5thgrade team has also made impressive strides, preparing to represent our school at the state championship in Miami These lower campus teams exemplify the power of young minds to tackle challenges with creativity and determination.
Our robotics teams have taken their expertise to new heights at the middle and high school levels. These students engage with advanced robotics concepts, refining their programming and engineering skills to compete at increasingly challenging levels. By working collaboratively, they develop solutions to complex problems and push the boundaries of innovation. Each competition offers opportunities to reflect on strategies, celebrate successes, and identify ways to improve, ensuring continuous growth and learning.
This year has been especially exciting for our robotics teams across both campuses Their placements in the past and upcoming competitions are testaments to their hard work, perseverance, and passion for robotics. These events are more than just competitions; they are opportunities for our students to shine, connect, and grow as future leaders in STEM fields.
As we celebrate these milestones, we look forward to seeing our students continue to compete and excel. The Sagemont Prep Lions are building more than robots they are building a future filled with innovation, confidence, and success.
Jeff Coby, Class of 2012 Sagemont Prep Alumni Spotlight
This past September, Sagemont Prep proudly welcomed back Jeff Coby, Class of 2012, to kick off this year’s Lion’s Table Talk series. Lion’s Table Talk is a student-led initiative that connects middle and high school students with inspiring community leaders. This year’s theme, “My Journey Since Sagemont Prep,” celebrates alumni making a meaningful impact in the community.
Exceptional achievements marked Jeff Coby’s time at Sagemont Prep as a student-athlete. He earned MVP Honors, Florida First Team recognition and played a pivotal role in securing Sagemont Prep's first Basketball State Championship. After graduation, Jeff attended Columbia University, where he excelled both academically and athletically His professional basketball career has taken him around the world, including playing in Spain, Japan, Brazil, and here in the US with the New York Knicks A highlight of Jeff’s career has been playing for his national team Haiti
While being interviewed by the Lion’s Table Talk team, Jeff shared his experience writing his first book, My Mindful Journey. Jeff’s first published book, My Mindful Journey, explores how meditation and mindfulness transformed his mindset and performance on and off the court. Jeff discussed his purpose and intention of writing the book, which in part is to inspire others to embrace self-development, overcome challenges, and unlock their full potential through mindfulness practices.
Jeff painted a vivid picture for our students from honing his basketball skills at Sagemont Prep to navigating the pressures of playing professionally on a global stage. Jeff shared how meditation became his anchor, enabling him to remain composed and fully present during high-stakes moments both on and off the court. He encouraged our Sagemont Prep students to embrace meditation as a tool for managing stress, staying focused, and fostering self-confidence.
In his candid conversation with the Lion Table Talk team and our middle and high school students, Jeff encouraged each individual to view adversity as an opportunity for growth and to stay resilient in their own pursuits As one student reflected, “Hearing Mr Coby made me feel like anything is possible ”
The Lion’s Table Talk series continues in January 2025 with a special panel featuring Sagemont Prep alumni currently in college. They will share insights about their growth, the obstacles they have overcome, and valuable advice on preparing for the journey of college. Parents, you are always welcome to attend as well!
Festival
Festivities!
Performances!
Sagemont Preparatory School inspires academic excellence through intellectual exploration, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Students are encouraged to take responsible risks and develop a deep understanding of social responsibility as active agents of change.
IntellectualCuriosity &Creativity
AnalyticalThinking &ProblemSolving
Collaboration
Responsible Risk-Taking Reflection
Eagerly connecting existing knowledge to unique ideas absorbed from beyond the classroom leads to the exploration of imaginative solutions through critical thinking, and the development of resilience.
Building the ability to cut through noise to assess issues, and efficiently and effectively tackle complex problems, making informed decisions and finding innovative solutions.
Supporting and sharing ideas, wisdom, and approaches of others to jointly discover solutions or uncover untapped opportunities.
Breaking traditional grades-driven approaches by exploring ideas, partnerships or leadership roles, exposing individuals to vulnerability, and leading to student-powered confidence, new skills, knowledge, and success.
Challenging oneself by thoughtfully examining results and experiences, and striving for continual improvement, developing confidence, and selfawareness.
