Every child deserves an education that helps them thrive. Whether you’re homeschooling, navigating challenges in a traditional school setting, or seeking enriching experiences for your child, Joyful Horizons is here to support you in Richmond, Vermont and online.

My mission is to make learning joyful, personalized, and effective by helping families create an educational experience that meets each child where they are and inspires them to grow.

I offer one-on-one educational consulting, engaging enrichment classes, creative school vacation day camps, and middle school success coaching—all designed to help students grow with confidence and joy.

With my expertise, I help parents feel confident, supported, and equipped to guide their children’s educational journey.

Want to learn more about how I can partner with your family? Let’s Chat! Schedule a free 30 minute meeting with me today!

Empowering Families on the Path to Joyful Learning

Personalized educational support and consulting

What is Joyful Horizons?

Hi! I’m Jessie Blake, an educator passionate about creating learning experiences as unique as the children they serve. With 14 years of experience in Vermont public schools, independent schools, and alternative education, I’ve seen firsthand how personalized, flexible learning can transform a child’s confidence and success.

Most recently, as the director and headteacher of Mansfield Cooperative School, I developed multi-age programs that empowered students to explore their passions, develop independence, and thrive in a supportive environment. I started Joyful Horizons to bring that same level of individualized support to families navigating their child’s education—whether they’re homeschooling, in traditional school, or seeking alternative solutions.

Every child learns differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to education. I help families:
- Homeschool with confidence, offering consulting, enrichment classes, and workshops
- Support school-enrolled students, helping parents advocate for their child and explore creative educational solutions
- Guide middle schoolers in building success skills, from executive function to self-motivation
- Provide engaging learning experiences, including school vacation day camps for hands-on exploration

Joyful Horizons is a partnership. I’m here to share my knowledge, creativity, and passion, helping you navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and keep the joy in learning at the heart of your family’s educational journey.

Welcome to Joyful Horizons, where your family’s path to joyful learning begins!

How Can I Support Your Family?

For Homeschooling Families

Homeschooling offers incredible flexibility to individualize education, but it also presents challenges that can be hard to navigate alone. I provide:

Personalized homeschool consulting – curriculum guidance, learning plans, and ongoing support

Engaging enrichment classes – hands-on, creative classes for homeschoolers

Middle school success coaching – developing executive function, independence & academic confidence

For School-Enrolled Families

Sometimes traditional school doesn’t feel like the right fit, and families need support in understanding their child’s needs and exploring creative options. I offer:

Educational consulting – helping parents advocate for their child & explore alternative solutions

Middle school success coaching – building skills for executive functioning, social confidence & academic success

School vacation day camps – creative, enriching experiences open to all students

I was born and raised in Vermont and live in Essex. In my free time I love exploring outdoors, dancing, and playing board games with friends!

Testimonials

  • “Jessie has this amazing ability to see kids for who they are and what they need—she’s perceptive in a way I don’t think all educators are. My son thrived under her guidance, not just in terms of learning, but in building confidence and self-esteem. As a parent, I felt completely supported by Jessie. She gave us honest feedback which was exactly what we needed to help our son grow. Jessie’s warmth and expertise are a rare combination, and I can’t recommend her enough."

    Eliza K. from Underhill

  • “As a parent, having someone like Jessie in your corner is invaluable. She offers practical solutions, a deep understanding of middle schoolers' emotional and social needs, and an affirmation that it’s okay to step outside the system and find your own path.”

    Christina K. from Richmond

  • "Jessie embodies a deep respect for young people and their unique perspectives. This respect is foundational in creating an environment where children feel valued for all they have to offer. She empowers children to explore their roles within their families, towns, and the world, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy. I highly recommend Jessie to any parent seeking a thoughtful mentor who prioritizes their child's holistic development and can guide families through the complexities of education today.”

    Grace M. from Underhill

  • “Our son has always been a unique learner, and Jessie recognized and honored his differences instead of trying to fit him into a box. She encouraged him to pursue his interests, which kept him engaged and allowed him to thrive. The lessons he learned with her—academically and socially—have had a lasting impact."

    Lars W. from Richmond

  • "As parents, having Jessie’s outside perspective was invaluable. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if something isn’t working because of the material or just because he’s tired of working with mom and dad, and Jessie helped us sort through that dynamic and understand what was really going on. She has a way of bringing clarity to things, and her involvement was a game changer for us"

    Brian S. from Burlington

  • "Jessie provided our family with invaluable support. Her insight into navigating the educational landscape, especially for kids who don’t fit the conventional mold, was crucial for us. She helped us advocate for what our kids needed."

    Sarah H. from Underhill

  • "Jessie stands out for her dedication, creativity, and passion as an educator. For kids who struggle with the standard public school model, Jessie’s approach is transformative. She truly understands how to meet kids where they are, scaffold their learning, and create a meaningful, deep, and enjoyable educational experience."

    Todd D. from Middlesex

Services

  • Classes for Students

    Engaging, hands-on classes that ignite curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning—where students explore, create, and grow together.

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  • Middle School Success Coaching

    Personalized support to help students develop crucial executive functioning skills, build confidence, and navigate the challenges of early adolescence with independence and resilience.

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  • Personalized Consulting

    Tailored guidance to help families navigate their unique educational journey with confidence, creativity, and joy.

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  • Vacation Day Camps

    Inspiring creativity and confidence through hands-on, engaging camps during school breaks.

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