Yesterday, two Ellafi team members—Kristen and Robyn—had the honor of joining the Circle of Peace morning meeting at Grace Academy in Hartford. This daily gathering brings together all students and faculty to begin the school day grounded in connection, reflection, and intention.
Led by a designated class, each morning Circle includes warm greetings for every student, shared prayers, educational segments like the “Root Word of the Week” and “This Day in History,” as well as announcements and shared intentions and affirmations. It’s a beautiful expression of community and shared values.
Our connection to Grace Academy began earlier this year when we met Executive Director Princess Hyatt at the Girls Inc. of Central Connecticut’s Awards Dinner, where she was honored for her incredible work. Princess immediately recognized the Ellafi name from the Hartford Business Journal’s Women in Business Awards Dinner—a powerful moment that reaffirmed how aligned our missions are.
We met again to explore how Ellafi might support Grace Academy in the future, and Princess invited us to attend a Circle of Peace before the school year ended. At yesterday’s gathering, Kristen and Robyn shared their own end-of-year affirmations and reflected on what advice they’d give to their middle school selves—an experience both moving and meaningful.
After the meeting, two of the school’s student ambassadors offered us a tour of the school. We left feeling inspired and energized by the passion and purpose evident in every classroom and hallway.
We’re looking forward to continuing conversations this August around potential opportunities to partner with Grace Academy—especially in areas that could enhance financial literacy education, entrepreneurial exploration, and other empowerment-focused programs for students and their families.
Grace Academy is an independent, interfaith, tuition-free middle school where girls are empowered to reach their fullest potential. The school provides equitable access to a nurturing and academically rigorous environment, supporting students through high school, college, and beyond.
We’re incredibly honored to build a relationship with this extraordinary school and look forward to growing together.
To learn more about Grace Academy, visit Grace Academy Hartford.