Letter from Mrs. Hollenbeck

What Am I Most Thankful For At The Experiential School? Relationships of Reciprocity

One of the most profound aspects of our work at The Experiential School is witnessing the rich, reciprocal relationships that blossom between our young protagonists in Alpha and JK and their teachers.

Anyone at Shorecrest understands that teachers are not just instructors; they are trusting adults, co-researchers, and vital members of your child's learning community. They curate student-centered environments, facilitate open-ended materials, and champion the sense of belonging that is essential for deep learning. When I listen to our educators reflect and engage in dialogue about the children's daily discoveries—whether they're exploring sustainable practices outdoors or engaging in imaginative play—it is clear how deeply they value and understand each child's unique voice and potential.

This relationship is a true testament to the Reggio Emilia-inspired image of the child and teacher working together. In fact, a teacher recently shared a moment of absolute, heart-warming admiration: a student, genuinely impressed by the teacher's presence and guidance, declared they aspire to become their teacher when they grow up! Now that's a powerful indication of a secure, nurturing, and truly inspirational learning partnership.

If I could commission a giant, collaborative performance for any professionals in the world, it would be for the spectacular educators who work with our youngest citizens, led by the amazing teachers at The Experiential School. Why? Because the work they do creating the culture of our communities, is, quite simply, the most vital and foundational. At Shorecrest they truly go above and beyond and I am sure our recent parent-teacher conferences gave you a glimpse into this relationship.

This conviction is rooted in both the science of learning and the ethical imperative of the NAREA mission. The first five years are a period of breathtaking neurological architecture—the early brain is forming over a million neural connections every second (Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University). We are not merely influencing development; we are, as Suzane Axelsson details in her work on The Original Learning Approach, actively and deliberately building the emotional and cognitive infrastructure for:

• Resilience and Empathy

• Social Understanding and Dialogue

• The capacity for a deep Sense of Belonging

This time is defined by incredible plasticity, making the young protagonist’s brain profoundly sensitive to every experience—a magnificent, yet vulnerable, canvas. This is precisely why we must commit to deep, reflective practice—individually and collaboratively. We must avoid, as much as possible, any attitude, word, or body language that could weaken this emerging structure, ensuring our human actions support the most positive sense of self.

The relationship itself is the original, open-ended material for mental health.

Like the careful curation of a student-centered environment, these responsive, secure attachments form the child’s emotional infrastructure. Responsive, loving adults provide co-regulation, calming the child’s system and modeling control. Secure attachments teach our children that the world is safe, that their feelings are manageable, and that people can be trusted—the very foundation of a future engaged and compassionate citizen. Inconsistent care, conversely, teaches the opposite—that needs are dangerous, or people are unreliable. Our daily, intentional actions are literally building mental health, and there is no more important performance.

We deeply thank you for all this trust!

Thank you once more for making time for Parent-Teacher conferences. The teachers and I appreciate all of you.

Wishing you a restful Thanksgiving Break!

Sincerely,

Adriana & The Experiential School Team

Adriana Portella Hollenbeck

Head of The Experiential School of Tampa Bay

ahollenbeck@shorecrest.org 

727-456-7541

Mark Your Calendars - 

Monday, November 17
Dads Night Out

Thursday, November 20
Keynote Speaker Sam Demma - Parent Performance

Mon. - Fri., November 24-28
Thanksgiving Break

Monday, December 1
Holiday Gift Drive Kick-off

Wednesday, December 3
SCA Moms Holiday Night Out
One Night Only: MS & US Thespians Showcase

Friday, December 5
Charger Chat with Nancy Spencer

Friday, December 19
Early Dismissal

Monday, December 22
Winter Break (through January 4)

Monday, January 5
Return to School

SAVE THE DATES:

ES STUDIO PERFORMANCE
January 30, 2026, in the Janet Root Theatre, 8:30-9:30am
All ES students will perform.

ART EXHIBIT
Join us for the first Experiential School Art Exhibit showcasing the artwork of our talented students, using a variety of techniques, inspired by the emerging studies from the classroom.

• March 11, 2026, 5:30-7pm
  ES Art Exhibit Vernissage in The Mike Murphy Experiential School building
  This event is exclusive for Alpha and JK students and their parents.
  Small bites will be provided by SAGE Dining Services.
  Before Winter Break the Administration will send an RSVP to confirm attendance.

• March 12 and 13 during school hours
  ES Art Exhibit
  Shorecrest community, family and friends are welcome

Read about how past survey feedback has helped to influence significant improvement across all divisions. [Read the Article in Shorecrest News]

Volunteers Needed - Sign up to help today!

Coming up: Holiday Gift Drive! Shorecrest volunteer needs can also be found by clicking Volunteer Info on the menu here, or on the Shorecrest Parent App. 

New Student Applications to Shorecrest

Families who have students they wish to send to Shorecrest for the 2026-2027 school year who are not currently enrolled (e.g. younger siblings) now is the time to apply. The application deadline is February 1, in order to be considered for the first round of admissions decisions.  

The re-enrollment process for students who are currently enrolled to commit to returning for the 2026-2027 school year is in February. 

All-School Calendar

Experiential School Contacts