We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mary Shaeffer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mary below.
Mary , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
My purpose had started becoming clear to me once I had a child. This purpose was realized with blinding clarity once my child started going to school. A series of events had led me to my deepest and greatest purpose thus far.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
The children at River Oak Academy are what gets me up each day. They inspire me to do the work I do. River Oak Academy is a school that was created with the needs and best interest of children in mind. We are inspired by the Montessori approach but we are not strictly a Montessori school. We are an Acton Academy affiliate whose mission is believing that every child is a genius who is destined to change the world. River Oak creates opportunities for children to have real world experiences. We have an upcoming Children’s Business Fair, a one day market showcasing child owned businesses selling child made products at Spring Park in Green Cove Springs from 1-4 PM. For more information, https://www.childrensbusinessfair.org/jacksonville
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Thinking back to how I got where I am, I’d have to say it had nothing to do with any of my skills in particular. I opened my heart and mind to possibilities that were not apparent whenRiver Oak was still in dream stage. All I knew was that I wanted to create a school where children are truly respected. What helps me with my work now is a great love for and a strong belief in children.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
Our ideal families are those who value a “whole-child” educational approach Those who are willing to up-level family culture to cultivate a leadership and growth mindset
Those who view learning with patience as a “long-game,” not by checkmarks and arbitrary grade levels.
Entrepreneurs
Creators and creatives
Out-of-the box thinkers
Those who value growth as a lifestyle
Those who are willing to challenge “modern” parenting trends to empower their child with hard work, accountability, and a love of service to others.
Families who want their children to develop a love of learning
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.riveroakacademy.org/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/riveroakacademy?igshid=MjEwN2IyYWYwYw==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riveroakacademy?mibextid=LQQJ4d
