Staff, Manchester Journal
Feb 19, 2026
Red Fox Community School announced that it hosted Sofia Mirenda, a Bennington College student and East Dorset native, for a specialized six-week Field Work Term. Mirenda, who is majoring in Psychology and minoring in Visual Arts and Education, spent her winter immersion exploring the intersection of art and general education within the school’s unique experiential framework.
MANCHESTER -- Red Fox Community School announced that it hosted Sofia Mirenda, a Bennington College student and East Dorset native, for a specialized six-week Field Work Term. Mirenda, who is majoring in Psychology and minoring in Visual Arts and Education, spent her winter immersion exploring the intersection of art and general education within the school’s unique experiential framework.
For Mirenda, returning to the Northshire was a deliberate choice. After experiencing the life-changing "Mountain Campus" program at Burr and Burton Academy—which she credits with helping her rediscover her sense of wonder post-pandemic—she sought an environment that mirrored those values of nature, presence, and student agency.
"I’ve never seen a school like this before," she said. "In a typical elementary school, everything is so structured. At Red Fox, there is a deep level of trust and community. There is room for creative freedom, where the curriculum can shift if a moment of discovery pops up—like the spontaneous 'Fool’s Gold' experiment. It allows kids to be open, curious, and respectful."
During her six weeks at Red Fox, Mirenda integrated herself into the daily rhythms of the classroom, assisting with everything from literacy and math to snack time and art projects. Her primary goal has been to determine her future path: focusing on specialized art education or becoming a general classroom educator.
"Sofia’s presence has been a gift to our community," said Karen O'Neill Thomson, Head of School at Red Fox Community School. "Having an intern who understands the landscape of Vermont and the value of outdoor, hands-on learning allows our students to see their own educational values reflected in a young professional. She truly understands our mission of fostering inclusive and safe spaces for exploration."
Reflecting on her time with the students, Mirenda noted the importance of the school’s focus on communication and consent. "The kids here really work together to create their environment. I want to help kids keep that natural sense of wonder as they age—to show them that the world isn’t set in stone and that they don't have to choose just one path forever."