by Mistral Dodson | Jul 7, 2025 | Educational Philosophy, Leadership, Social Emotional Learning
As an intentionally small, independent K–8 school in Salem, MA, we do things differently. Our students don’t just memorize facts—they design solutions, explore deeply, collaborate across age groups, and contribute meaningfully to their communities, near and far.
We break down the traditional walls of education—between grades, subjects, and even the school building itself. Our classrooms extend into parks, museums, libraries, and city streets. Learning becomes alive, purposeful, and personal.
We hire educators who think outside the box and know how to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child.
At Phoenix, students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, parents are integral partners, and every child is deeply known.
We prepare kids not just for high school—but for life.
Curious about what we do? We’d love to connect.
🔗 Learn more: https://phoenixschool.org
by Mistral Dodson | Jun 26, 2025 | Blog, Educational Philosophy
What makes The Phoenix School different—and why it matters more than ever…
Every parent wants their child to love learning. But in many schools, curiosity is something to manage—not something to nurture.
At The Phoenix School, we flip the script.
We believe that curiosity is the engine of learning. When children are given space to ask their own questions, follow their interests, and engage deeply with the world around them, amazing things happen.
In our intentionally small, multi-age classrooms, students work side by side across grade levels—collaborating on long-term projects, solving real-world problems, and stretching their minds in unexpected directions. There are no worksheets. No cookie-cutter tests. No one-size-fits-all learning plans.
Instead, our students are:
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Building understanding, not just completing assignments
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Exploring the “why,” not just memorizing the “what”
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Learning to lead, not just follow directions
Phoenix students don’t just survive school. They thrive in it. They grow into confident, capable, compassionate young people who know how to think, question, create, and connect.
If your child is bursting with questions, energy, creativity, or passion—and you’re looking for a school that sees those qualities as assets, not obstacles—come see what Phoenix is all about.
This is not your average school. This is where curious kids thrive.
by Mistral Dodson | Jun 13, 2025 | Blog, Leadership, Social Emotional Learning, TPS Travel Study Program
My name is Paul Evdokimov, and I’m very close to being in ninth grade, but before I go forward, I want to look at what brought me to the place I’m in today, to remind myself of what made me who I am – the memories, people, and lessons that mean the most to me. Eight years ago, I joined this school. I was no taller than the bookshelves that held my favorite stories of colorful monsters and magic treehouses. I didn’t understand English very well. Eight years ago, I was sitting on those benches, staring up at the eighth graders who were graduating. I was in awe of who they were; they were smart, nice, tall, and the coolest “adults” I had ever met. Each year, I grew to be more like them, more like them in my own way. Now, eight years later, I have become a leader like the ones that I would always look up to. An older partner who teaches lessons to younger kids, a leader who remains positive and encouraging. After years of preparing, I’m ready for high school, equipped with knowledge and a mindset to achieve. It’s been eight years, and every part of me has grown; each unique experience has changed me.
Ever since my first year at Phoenix, I’ve improved each aspect of my learning. I’ve been allowed to explore and understand my own learning style, whether I’m solving quadratic equations in math or designing and conducting a science experiment. Being able to choose how I learn and the level at which I do so has gotten me to understand the value behind discipline and self-directed learning. I know this skill will be essential later in life, especially when I need to stay motivated in order to reach my full potential. The freedom to choose work and take responsibility for my learning has prepared me for high school and whatever challenges it brings. 
Leadership comes in whatever form you choose. I am the type of leader who guides and teaches, encouraging others. At times, I’m not as outgoing as I’d like to be, and I don’t always feel as though I do enough as a leader. Nevertheless, through my patience, positivity, and motivation I have gained the respect of those around me.
At Phoenix, the expectations are high and being an eighth grader the responsibilities only grow. I worried about this a lot, but as the year went by, I found ways to overcome my worries and earn the respect of a leader. Before every lunch, the eighth graders are tasked to dismiss tables, requiring us to get the attention of every student. At the start of the year, I had no idea how to do this, especially when all the kids were speaking.
The Common sat in front of me. Twenty-six students that I had to take the lead of. My heart raced, each beat stronger and louder than the last. An echo through my ear for every breath I took. How will I take control? I’m not even a teacher. What can I do? I had to find a way. After all, Audrey shouldn’t be expected to do it alone. My confidence was fading. If I wanted to take action, I’d have to do it now. One, two, three 
claps. I’d done it. Everyone looked up at me, or at least enough had. Enough for me to know that tomorrow I could do better, that in following days I would show who I truly am in my own way.
Over the first few days and weeks, I got better; by now, I’m an expert. The feeling of accomplishment when I first did it was unbeatable. I realized that being a leader wasn’t just about one breakthrough, on the contrary, it was about the small victories along the way.
Each day, I practiced, creating opportunities to improve my skills and open my mind to new ways of learning and leading, showing me that I’m truly capable of being a strong leader. Leadership has shown to be a much greater challenge than I could have ever imagined in second grade, a time when leadership – to me – felt like the most important skill, and the best way to fit in with others, and I’m proud of who I’ve become.
Even as a kindergartener, I was interested in helping others and appreciated the EarlyAct Club. I tried involving myself as much as I could, looking for opportunities to contribute to our community. I hoped to become one of the officers who led everything and made all the decisions. Now, as Vice President, my mindset hasn’t changed, and I continue to maintain my belief in helping others. I don’t see my leadership as a position of power, but as a responsibility to uphold and support those around me. I care deeply about all the issues we face, locally and globally. Whether I help by doing small acts of kindness or big projects, I strive to make a change.
Another one of the most defining aspects of my time at Phoenix has been Travel Study Trips. When I came back to Phoenix last year, I barely knew anyone. I felt as though I’d been cast into the deep end of the coldest swimming pool. Surrounded by unfamiliar faces, it seemed easier to talk with teachers than my peers.
One of the hardest moments on the trip to Glen Canyon was during our car ride. Crammed in the middle seat, uncomfortable, sweaty, and tired, I forgot how to talk. I hadn’t tried. I knew I was only making it harder on myself, and I didn’t want to be the “quiet, awkward kid” who sat and spoke without looking at anyone. I took a chance and made a joke. Someone laughed. A small thing to most, but something inside of me happened. Something had been set alight.
The spark followed me on my next trip to Catalina Island, it warmed me, melting the nervousness. I spoke up, resisting the temptation to keep quiet. I wasn’t just “there” anymore, I was part of it.
From gazing at the splinters of sky at the depths of Antelope Canyon, to petting sharks on Catalina Island. I was lucky to have the experiences given to me. This especially applied to snorkeling on our trip this year. I’ve always been too afraid to try. Yet, I’ve learned that you can always learn from uncomfortable challenges, and I am grateful for having these opportunities.
Thank you to Betsye, Barbara, Leslie, Mike, Dave, and Mistral, for guiding me through this journey. To my mom and my dad, who gave me this incredible opportunity that I will forever cherish. My trip with The Phoenix School isn’t over. It never will be. In moments when I feel lost or need to take the lead, I will remember what Phoenix has taught me.
As I begin to find my path in life, I’m ready for whatever comes at me. Phoenix has prepared me for high school, to conquer whatever challenges or obstacles are in my way. It has taught me the power of listening and the courage to speak up for what is right, bringing out the confidence inside of me, and shaping me into the person I am today. I’ve learned the importance of leadership, friendship, kindness, and empathy. I’m ready to fulfill my goals, to lead, and to accomplish. I’ll push, even when the trail is steep and unmarked, and leave the shadows as one would leave dust on a road. I’ll never forget how Phoenix has helped me. I’ll take my skills wherever I go. I’ll be ready to be my true self, unafraid to speak up, and unafraid to lead. Being the best that I can be, whilst finding a road that will lead me to success.
Dear Paul…
…you have come a long way from that Kindergartner we first met. You are our attentive listener and quiet leader, cooperating with others, treating teachers and peers with courtesy and respect, always. You are a good friend and carry a like-ability that’s rare. You excel in the way you solve problems, both in your math journal and as an older partner.
You have learned to stand tall, literally, and are speaking for yourself, earning to persevere through challenge and discomfort to experience the world around you.
Leave behind your comfort zone and the temptation to stand back. Stretching beyond boundaries has served you well and shaped you into the friend and leader you are today. Know your influence is felt in the poise and maturity you display. Take with you the ability to influence others with the poise and maturity we see each day. Let the world see what you have to offer.
by Mistral Dodson | Jun 13, 2025 | Blog, Leadership
Imagine ten year old me walking through the doors of The Phoenix School, very obviously scared of the unknown ahead of me, my anxiety taking over like a heavy weight on my chest, touring a school after being homeschooled for my whole life. I knew it would be fine but I was very shy as I walked inside this unknown place. Art and engineering projects that didn’t seem like something you would do at school were everywhere. As my day continued I was treated as if I was a regular student like every other kid. That afternoon the school had a discussion and my hand shot up time after time. I was acknowledged for my answer, but mostly for my willingness and ambition to participate. That is how I think my Phoenix story started.
I’m a leader, I always have been, and pretty sure I always will be. Yes, I’ll make partners, yes I’ll speak first in group decision making, yes I’ll teach you how to tie your shoes, and help fit supplies in your bag. It’s what I’ve done for the past three years at Phoenix and a lot more as an eighth grader. My love for leading isn’t just natural though. The K-8 setting at Phoenix has taught me to recognize the joy of a little kid’s smile, the importance of inclusion and has helped me to realize that I want to be a teacher myself. Engaging as an older kid is where I flourish, hearing and seeing laughs and smiles fill the school, when I crack a joke or sneakily get the kindergartners to stack chairs when they don’t want to makes me full of passion for helping others. Miles, Ruben, and Rowan are the smallest in age, and size, this year but they have helped me and challenged me to prepare me in the largest way with all that I wish to do in the future. I wouldn’t be the same role model and happy older kid I am without them.
My leadership has also carried through to our EarlyAct Club. As Vice President last year and President this year, those roles helped me be the outgoing, independent leader I am and assist the school and those in need. I hope all of the next officers in the future can find the joy in being in charge of making important decisions and making an impact as much as I did.
The community at Phoenix is like nothing else I’ve experienced. I’ve been welcomed and been the welcomer often as the tour guide, which I will miss not meeting the new parents and families who don’t know what this school has to offer. The parents of kids of every age have always been so appreciative of how I’ve helped their kids, and I don’t think you all know how much being with your kids and knowing you has changed me. 
I hate making mistakes. Failure is terrifying. My struggles are something most don’t know about, so I hide issues as if I did something wrong. If I don’t do something right, I fail, so that’s why I keep it in as much as I can and let the bad get at me while others don’t see. Those inner challenges range from procrastinating homework, to convincing myself that I am in no way smart. My math journal makes me immediately nervous and prepared to hide my tears. It’s always been that journal I let sink to the bottom of my tub, filled with intimidating numbers and symbols and things I just don’t know. Attacking my confidence and just making me upset. My confidence and attitude towards math has had a large shift this year though, maybe it’s the special deal I have with Leslie, maybe I’m just changing, but, either way, I’m proud of how I’ve worked through those challenges. I’ve found new strategies for myself and trusted teachers with sharing how I felt. With a slight tear in my eye, of course, I’ve done things that make me very uncomfortable, and that’s great. Mistakes make me stronger and work harder. I’ve embraced challenges and worked around it now that I understand how it helps me.
As the year keeps going, eventually we prepare for the well known travel study trips. I’ve been anxious and endlessly excited since I found out that we go on trips. In sixth grade we went to St. John in the Virgin Islands. Pretty sweet school trip when you’re eleven right? Unfortunately, my trip was cut short so I could attend one of my dance competitions, but in order to go back home, I flew alone, no teachers, no parents, just me in my seat feeling fulfilled by the support. Last year’s trip was to Glen Canyon, Arizona. We were so much closer and 
supportive of each other and I hope that continues on through the travel study trips. For this year, of course, I was nervous about where it would be, everyone was, but during our scavenger hunt for the big reveal I had probably the biggest sigh of pure relief that it was my dream trip, Catalina Island. I cannot explain how much these trips and especially this year’s have an impact on my academics, connections and my entire life. Team bonding during activities we’ve never done like steering a brigantine ship, or emotionally supporting each other with self criticism over writing or paintings, and especially my perspective being expanded as large as it can get by traveling. All the 6-8s are kind and inspiring and I can’t wait to see you all become even more wondrous, thank all 8 of you for making these trips such a blast.
The feeling of saying goodbye seeps in as the traditions pass. It is at this moment that my very last Holiday Gifts, Readathon, May Day, Travel Study Trip, and others have become past memories. The flowers handed to me on May Day from the Kindergarteners and the flight home from Catalina Island made me realize that these rich experiences and my time at Phoenix was coming to an end. I never thought much about them until now…these were all goodbyes. This whole year was a goodbye, not just this moment, and to be honest, it’s really hard.
It all went by so fast, three whole years, but I only had little daydreams about who I’d be, here, today, saying this speech. I know who I am. I’m kind, a leader, ambitious, prepared, but especially ready, ready to say my bittersweet goodbyes, ready for my next school, and all that I wish to do after that. So thank you, Leslie, Barbara, Dave, Mike, Mistral and all the other spectacular adults and of course my fellow students. Thank you Phoenix, I’m ready to go, but I won’t forget all that you taught me and all that I have had the honor of leaving behind.
Dear Audrey…you have the ability to make all people feel valued, using your natural gifts of good humor, friendliness, and warmth to be the role model you are. No one else knows better how to organize a multi-aged group and mold everyone’s ideas, no matter how crazy they may sound, into a quality final product, a true collaborator.
You are curious, kind, introspective, and always ready to be helpful. You can often be seen and heard, which reflects your joy and willingness to lead our community to make us all strive to be more compassionate and selfless. You have become a skilled leader, an admission’s tour guide extraordinaire, and an exemplary role model.
Remember to be bold, taking your values of kindness, sensitivity, creativity, and cooperation that have grown to be a leader of the pack. Leave behind the idea that something might be too hard, too much of a challenge, or just uncomfortable. Instead, show up, keep learning and growing, and continue to become your best self. Take your cheerful, caring nature with you to make your mark on the world. We know you’ll make it a better place for all of us.
Love, Leslie, Mike, Dave, Mistral and everyone at TPS!
by Mistral Dodson | Apr 16, 2025 | TPS Travel Study Program
We turn out early today to prepare breakfast and meet the ferry that will take us to Catalina Island. It is a cold and blustery crossing under thick grey clouds, but to our delight, the sun welcomes us to Catalina. We trek up the hill from the harbor to find our quarters and get ready for our first snorkel.
Our CIMI scientist, Roxy assures us we will love it. She does not warn us about the difficulty of squeezing into our full body wet suits, but we help each other and are soon ready to launch. First we feel only the freezing waters, mind-numbing cold, but as our bodies warm cold sea water trapped by our wet suits we become comfortable. Searching endlessly for fish we feel liberated, lost in life undersea, leaving terrestrial above behind. Sattva loves watching her hands moving effortlessly past her goggles and tasting the salt on her lips. We are relaxed, buoyed by our wet suits as we bob up and down with the waves. Finally, after emerging onto the sandy beach, we collect on the dive deck to rinse, rinse, rinse our wet suits, stow our masks, snorkels, hoods, and flippers before fully transforming into land creatures again.
As dusk falls, we begin a climb to leave the lights of the camp far behind. Carrying only water bottles and flashlights we follow Roxy along a ravine, and trudge up the mountain for a spectacular view of the night sky. However, tonight the weather gods are being tricky. Cloud cover allows only a few stars to make themselves known at first, but soon mother nature concedes the sky to us. Roxy helps us identify the winter sky, Orion, Pleiadies, and Taurus, then tells us a story from her grandmother, an Inupiat native, about how Raven brought light to the world. That inspires us each to search the sky and choose a grouping of stars that we feel has a personal meaning. After we hike down, we put our tales to paper and share them; eight original bedtime stories that might, in time, become stories for our loved ones.
