Alma Bella Academy

Alma Bella Academy - Chester, VA

Hours: Tuesday-Wednesday 2:00-6:00 pm

Additional Days, Morning & Evening Hours: By Appointment Only

Located in the Rudy Center at Chester Presbyterian Church: 3424 W. Hundred Road, Chester, VA 23831,

Alma Bella Academy’s Chester location offers homeschool hybrid programs, after-school enrichment, tutoring, field trips, and seasonal camps, along with adult classes in painting, hand-built pottery, sewing, crochet, and stained glass. Our welcoming space supports hands-on learning for all ages, nurturing creativity, community, and personal growth through a focus on mind, body, and spirit.

About Us

Vision Statement

Our vision at Alma Bella Academy is to be a beacon of academic and artistic excellence, creating a brighter future for our students. We envision a world where every child, regardless of their background or abilities, has the opportunity to flourish and develop their full potential. We are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community where learners of all ages, from the very young to the elderly, and including adults with intellectual disabilities, come together to share in the joy of learning, creativity, and personal growth. At the heart of our vision is a strong sense of community, where the community can gather, connect, and thrive as they collectively embrace the transformative power of education and the arts.

Mission Statement

At Alma Bella Academy, our mission is to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment for beautiful souls through education, art, and community where students can thrive academically and artistically. We are dedicated to fostering a dynamic learning center that empowers students to reach their full potential.

Youth Programs

At Alma Bella Academy, children learn best by doing. Our youth programs blend academics, creativity, and real-world experiences in a calm, supportive environment where students feel safe to explore, ask questions, and grow.

We specialize in:

Afterschool enrichment (K–8)
Homeschool hybrid support (K–12)
Field trips, mini-camps, and seasonal camps
Project-based learning that builds confidence and independence

With small class sizes and personalized guidance, students are encouraged to discover their strengths, build resilience, and develop a genuine love of learning. Whether a child needs academic support, creative outlets, or a more flexible learning model, Alma Bella provides a plan designed just for them.

Because every child deserves a learning experience that meets them where they are—and helps them grow from there.

Adult Programs

Creativity doesn’t stop in childhood—and neither does growth. Alma Bella offers adult programs that provide space to slow down, learn something new, and reconnect with yourself through hands-on making.

Our adult classes include:

Pottery
Stained glass
Sewing
Crochet
Painting and creative workshops
Small-group and private sessions
Alma Bella To Go - Bring creativity to you!

Whether you’re seeking stress relief, skill-building, social connection, or simply time for yourself, our classes are welcoming, beginner-friendly, and guided step-by-step. No experience required—just a willingness to try.

At Alma Bella, adults don’t just make things—they make time for themselves.

Creative Wellness for Older Adults & Memory Care 🤍

Alma Bella Academy believes creativity is a lifelong gift. Our programs for older adults are thoughtfully designed to keep the brain active, support memory, and enhance overall quality of life through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

Through Alma Bella To Go, we bring creative wellness directly to individuals and communities through:

In-home creative sessions for older adults
Senior living and assisted living communities
Memory care facilities
Adult day programs, community centers, and churches

Our sessions are designed to support:

Cognitive stimulation and memory care
Fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination
Sensory engagement using familiar, comforting materials
Social connection, confidence, and emotional well-being

In-home sessions are ideal for seniors who prefer one-on-one support or are aging in place. Each experience is gently paced, fully guided, and adapted to individual abilities—allowing participants to feel successful, engaged, and respected at every stage.

At Alma Bella, we don’t just offer activities—we bring creativity, connection, and dignity directly to older adults, wherever they are.

Creative Learning Community

Alma Bella Academy is a creative learning community dedicated to helping individuals of all ages grow through hands-on learning, creativity, and connection. Our programs are intentionally designed to nurture confidence, curiosity, and well-being—meeting each learner exactly where they are and helping them move forward with purpose.

Our Philosophy

At Alma Bella Academy, our philosophy is deeply rooted in our unwavering commitment to nurturing the potential within each child, creating an environment where education and artistic expression flourish harmoniously.

1. Holistic Growth: We believe in the holistic development of our students. Education is not just about academics; it's about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Our philosophy encourages intellectual growth, emotional intelligence, and social development.

2. Individualized Learning: Every child is unique, and we embrace this individuality. Our approach is centered on personalized learning, recognizing that each student has their own pace and learning style.

3. Artistic Exploration: Art is an essential part of the human experience. We encourage artistic exploration because it fosters creativity, self-expression, and a deeper understanding of the world.

4. Inclusivity and Diversity: Our philosophy is founded on the principles of inclusivity and diversity. We believe that every student, regardless of their background or abilities, has the right to a quality education and the opportunity to explore their creative potential.

5. Community and Collaboration: We view education as a collaborative effort. Alma Bella Academy is not just a school; it's a community. We believe that when students, families, and staff come together, the educational experience is enriched and meaningful.

6. Lifelong Learning: Our philosophy emphasizes that learning is a lifelong journey. We instill a love for learning, critical thinking, and a curiosity that extends far beyond the classroom.

7. Empowerment: Alma Bella Academy is a place where students are empowered to shape their own future. We provide the tools and guidance for them to take ownership of their education and artistic endeavors.

Our philosophy is a guiding light, directing us toward the creation of confident, well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also make a positive impact on the world through their creativity, empathy, and pursuit of knowledge."