the Story
Jane began teaching middle school English in Albemarle County Public Schools in August 1983. Prior to that, she taught seven years in rural Virginia. That’s a total of 43 years, and Jane loved every year and every child.
Teachers at Henley naturally gathered together across aisles and grade levels to share ideas, dream up projects, and, yes, write their own challenging curriculum. That freedom to design and teach, unconstrained except for her professionalism and high expectations, formed the essence of who Jane became as a teacher.
For several years Jane toyed with the idea of one day starting her own business, focusing on what and how she liked to teach, hanging out her little classroom shingle. It was a wonderful and terrifying dream, and yet, one worth pursuing. In October 2020, she opened the door to her studio.
Testimonials
What Students Say
"To me, Mrs. Webb’s class was like a rollercoaster. First, as you slowly ascend the week, your excitement builds until you finally reach Studio13. Then, over the next few weeks, you undergo a series of challenges, each more exciting than the last. Finally, as you coast to the finish line, you can show your parents tangible evidence of how much you have grown as a writer, poet, and person."
-MW
"Mrs. Webb's extraordinary classes expand the understanding of literature and writing. With her creative perspective, any scholar of hers will grow in their language arts capabilities. From unique exercises to grammar lessons to deep conversations, Mrs. Webb's teaching style makes for an entertaining experience. The outcomes of her courses last a lifetime - providing skills that will carry you through each stage of an education, career, and any moment in between. And if nothing else, you can always expect a good time and something to look forward to!"
-SS
"The difference [in my writing] is drastic. I really enjoyed getting the feedback. Mrs. Webb didn’t just tell me what to change, she showed me how my writing could improve and let me come up with the multiple ways to rephrase my sentences."
-KW
What Parents Say
"Mrs. Webb has the unique ability to turn groans into giggles, spark curiosity, and enchant her young students. Her Studio13 classes were the highlight of my daughter’s academic year."
-BW
“I never would have guessed my very social and very sports oriented thirteen-year-old son would enjoy learning about Shakespeare and acting out A Midsummer Night’s Dream this much. He looked forward to every session.”
-KB
Media & Press
Retired Henley Teacher Sparks Student Writers
"After more than forty years spent happily teaching English to two generations of middle schoolers, educator Jane Webb has launched her own creative classroom in Crozet. Her new venture is called Studio13 The Art of Acceleration, and Webb is thrilled to be back with her young tribe."
Published in 2021 by Lisa Martin, The Crozet Gazette
Legacy Retirements from Western ACPS
"Ms. Webb’s reputation is iconic,” Sweatman added. “She is revered by students, parents, and teachers alike. Magic happened in her classroom.” Principal Beth Costa concurred. “Ms. Webb allowed students’ inner artist to be released through her Museum of Modern Art project. She was beloved in the community for her warmth, yet relentless pursuit of student excellence."
Published in 2020 by Clover Carroll, The Crozet Gazette