Welcome to Peace of Mind Equestrian Academy
Start strong. Ride far.
Northern Virginia's Premier Riding Academy for All Ages and Levels
It's always the right time to ride in the right direction.
At Peace of Mind, our structured program trains riders at all levels to achieve correct posture, core-balance, and effective aids.
Goal oriented lessons help riders improve coordination, confidence and strength in order to communicate properly with the horse. At each level, new movements are introduced to refine feel, shape, and connection. Riders continue to build on a strong foundation while their progress becomes an accomplishment. Our program is designed to help riders achieve ownership of their riding progress. Results will prepare riders for a lifetime of meaningful saddle time or competitions in dressage, working Equitation, eventing or western riding.
THE VIRTUES OF RIDING:
Riding improves self-awareness, empathy, coordination, self-esteem, and fosters clear communication.
Meet the Team
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Jaclyn Sicoli
Program Director and Head Trainer
For 18 years, Jaclyn has developed the potential of scores of horses and students. She launched Peace Of Mind Dressage in 2007 while still a full-time apprentice for "S" Judge and Grand Prix trainer, Heather Mason. In 2025, Jaclyn now brings her two decades of experience to launch Peace Of Mind Equestrian Academy, where she aims to inspire a new generation of young riders.
Jaclyn’s past success with adult and young adult students shows that every horse and rider can excel. Her clients have ranged from rescued horses which Jaclyn started under saddle and trained in dressage to Grand Prix Schoolmasters. Along the way, POM’s adult and young adult students competed nationally, earned USDF Medals, qualified for American Eventing Championships, competed at Dressage at Devon, and continued to soar long after their time with us. Some became trainers and even started their own businesses, groomed at the 5* Level and competed Internationally.
Passionate about her own education, Jaclyn completed three apprenticeships, earned her USDF Bronze and Silver Medals, and graduated with distinction from the USDF "L" judge program. She also served on the board for the Potomac Valley Dressage Association, earned a certificate in natural hoof trimming and hosted dozens of educational events as she grew her business in NJ, MD, and now VA.
Peace of Mind Equestrian Academy builds off Jaclyn’s rich experience and brings equestrian training to starter students of all ages. The philosophy of the Academy is simple: create a rewarding community for growing young riders by putting the horse first.
Jaclyn lives at the farm with her husband and three young children.
Jackie teaches Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday between 8:15AM-4:30PM.
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Ashley Judd
Assistant Trainer and Instructor
Ashley has had a life long love for horses. She is dedicated to be in service to the horse through constant learning and striving to steward fair, empathetic, and respectful training methods. She loves that every experience is a learning opportunity!
She believes the journey with horses brings out a deeper self awareness, self confidence and the understanding how our actions and energy affect another being. Her goal in working with others is to foster leadership and confidence. Capable leaders inspire and motivate everyone around them, strengthening relationships and community.
Ashley has worked with many types of horses and her background is mainly in dressage. She has been working with and learning from Jaclyn Sicoli at Peace of Mind Dressage since 2017. Ashley is constantly engaged in learning and has participated in many clinics including with Nicholas Fyffe and Jodi Lees. These experiences have given Ashley the tools to mold her students in correct rider mechanics and posture, lungeing, groundwork, lateral work and stretching.
She loves a good trail ride and is passionate about community connection and empowering others to dream big.
Ashley also has a love for all animals, gentle parenting, nature, running, yoga, and anything fitness related! Her and her husband live in Frederick MD in on their permaculture homestead with their two children.
Ashley teaches Wednesday and Thursday between 11:00AM-6:00PM.
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Emerson Krauss
Assistant Instructor
Emerson began her equestrian journey at 10 years old, transitioning to competitive riding at age 14. She competed extensively in the hunter, jumper, and equitation divisions, sustaining her competitive career through her sophomore year of college.
While pursuing her degree in criminology at the University of South Carolina, Emerson expanded her coaching expertise in Colorado, where she taught beginner skiers. This opportunity ignited her passion for athletic development, teaching her how to help students build confidence, refine their skills, and establish a strong technical foundation.
Emerson is thrilled to combine her extensive riding experience with her love for coaching to inspire new riders. She is dedicated to creating welcoming, fun, and highly supportive lessons that ensure a positive and rewarding experience for every student.
Emerson teaches 5 days per week including weekends from 11:00AM-7:00PM.
Our 3 instructors manage small class sizes and deliver individualized feedback, challenging and supporting every student based on abilities, readiness, and according to proven curriculum.
With a combined experience of 60 years riding and 22 years teaching, we are the instructor team you need to ride forward confidently.
Peace of Mind Farm
Our family farm offers professional facilities to support our continuous learning community. Spacious indoor and outdoor barn facilities keep riders and horses comfortable all year long. Riders of all ages advance through our diverse programs, on-site educational events, experienced instructors and safe, well trained horses.
We are located in Loudoun County, Virginia, only 1 hour from Washington, DC and 30 minutes from Middleburg.
Our local horse community is rich with events and horse shows. Opportunities to participate or attend calendar events and programs including Polo in the Park, 4H, Pony Club, The Scouts, Interscholastic Equestrian Association, VADANOVA, NOVAWE, and many other local clubs are right at our fingers tips.
Within the village of Waterford, community events to celebrate Halloween, the Waterford Foundation's annual Historic 5K/10K Trail Run, the Waterford Fair, and 4th of July maintain a small family feeling which we appreciate and reflect at POM.
Take your Equitation to the Next Level
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Explore Our Program
Take a look at how we focus on evolving your skills with our expertly designed program
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Rates & Packages
We work with riders of all ages and skill levels to advance equitation and horsemanship