Knight Hall School, which was founded nearly 100 years ago, is holding an event as a fundraiser to support the installation of new fencing and other updates at the West Hartford site.

Courtesy of Knight Hall School

Submitted

Knight Hall School has been a part of the local community for generations, and this year’s fundraiser – planned for March 27, 2026 at New Park Brewing – is particularly meaningful to us.

Our goal is to raise funds to replace the fencing surrounding our playground. Over the years, storms and falling trees have taken a toll on the fence, leaving sections weakened and in need of replacement. Creating a secure outdoor environment for our students is incredibly important to us, and this project will help ensure that our playground remains a safe and welcoming place for children to explore and learn.

Our philosophy centers on a child-led curriculum where teachers are trusted with autonomy in their classrooms. This approach allows creativity, curiosity, and meaningful learning to flourish, both for the children and for the educators who guide them.

Courtesy of Knight Hall School

The school’s longevity and strong reputation are due in large part to the leadership of our director, Martha Wylie, who is now in her 35th year guiding Knight Hall School. Under Martha’s leadership, the school has maintained an extraordinary level of teacher retention – something that is increasingly rare in early childhood education. Teachers stay because the school truly invests in them: strong benefits, a supportive work environment, and a family-like atmosphere that values collaboration and respect.

Our administrative team also reflects that continuity. Liz Lopes began her journey at Knight Hall School as a preschool teacher, where she spent ten years in the classroom. She later moved into a split role as both assistant director and teacher before officially joining Martha in the administrative office in 2020. Together, they now lead the school while maintaining the same values and philosophy that have defined it for decades. (Knight Hall School has been around since 1929!)

Another remarkable part of Knight Hall School is the dedication of its staff. Teachers such as Betsy Phillips, Maryann Buccheri, Mary Berstene, Heather Belanger, Nichole Segar, and Jennifer Waldberger continue to be part of the school community today. Some have been at the school for more than 30 years, others for 20 or 10 – an incredible testament to the culture that has been built here.

Courtesy of Knight Hall School

The annual fundraiser is a significant event for the school’s leadership. Liz, who helps coordinate much of the planning, knows firsthand the amount of work that goes into organizing the event – from reaching out to donors and coordinating auction items to helping create an atmosphere where parents, alumni, and community members can come together in support of the school. While the planning process can be demanding, it is incredibly rewarding to see the community rally around a place that means so much to so many families.

Over the years, staff members have changed and we have welcomed new teachers into our ever-growing community. But at the end of the day, the heart of Knight Hall School – its philosophy, its values, and its commitment to children and families – has remained the same.

Our fundraiser will be held on March 27, 2026, at New Park Brewing in West Hartford, and we would love the opportunity to share our story with the broader community. We will be hosting a silent auction, a raffle, and will have BarRated Trivia. This event is not limited to the current families at the school, all are welcome. More information about how to donate and purchase tickets can be found here: https://KHSAnnualFundraiser.auctria.events

We hope many will come out to support the school and help us continue providing a nurturing environment for young learners for many years to come.

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