Welcome home! We’re so glad you’re here. As you begin your journey with us, we want you to know what guides our community and shapes the Chatham Hall experience.
Here, we choose courage over comfort, embracing challenge and growth as we discover our passions and expand our perspectives. We ignite the light for others, creating a warm, inclusive environment where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported. We appreciate the journey—finding joy in each moment, lifting each other up, and celebrating both the everyday and the extraordinary. We do the right thing, grounded in honor, integrity, and accountability to ourselves and one another. And most importantly, we strive to be our best selves—nurturing wellness, curiosity, and confidence along the way.
OUR MISSION & VALUES
Mission Statement
Equipping curious thinkers to lead lives of impact.
Core Values
• Choose Courage Over Comfort
• Ignite the Light for Others
• Appreciate the Journey
• Do the Right Thing
• Be Your Best Self
Honor Code
I will not lie. I will not cheat. I will not steal. I will report all infractions of honor.
Purple & Golden Rule
The Purple & Golden Rule is founded upon the expectation of mutual respect, consideration, and thoughtfulness. The rule holds all members of the Chatham Hall community accountable for their actions and seeks to create a principled and caring sisterhood.
Belief Statement
At Chatham Hall, we believe that when a young woman steps beyond the boundary of her own comfort zone, she realizes the true power of her potential.
Every day across campus, you’ll discover your individual passions, learn to balance joy with challenge, gratitude with ambition, and to champion each other as you begin to weave together informed perspectives that will make up your worldview.
With endless opportunities illuminated before you, you’ll feel confident taking the first steps toward a life that is all your own.
MEET THE RECTOR
A Letter from Rector and Head of School Sara Stephenson
When I joined this vibrant community in 2024, I knew I had come home. In all my years working in independent schools, I had never felt a stronger sense of belonging than I did upon arriving here. I attended the same girls’ school in North London for fourteen years, and its motto, Alta Petens (“Seeking the Highest Things”), still resonates with me. But Chatham Hall has surpassed even that deep connection.
Those who visit our campus quickly discover that while our stunning grounds, innovative programs, beautiful stables, and new Athletic, Health, and Wellness Center are impressive, it’s the people who truly set this place apart. The strength of our community is not just something you hear about—it’s something you feel the moment you arrive.
This is also a community with the most inspiring alumnae and supporters I’ve ever encountered. So many alumnae return to campus to serve, lead, and give back—a true testament to the lasting impact of a Chatham Hall education and the legacy of those who came before.
Exciting things happen here every day, and we can’t wait to see what you contribute to the Chatham Hall story.
Esto Perpetua,
Sara Stephenson
Rector & Head of School
Rector Stephenson joined Chatham Hall in 2024 from Ashley Hall in Charleston, SC, where she led strategic enrollment efforts and helped grow the school’s mission and community. With 27 years of experience in education, she’s served as a teacher and administrator at leading independent schools across the country, bringing deep expertise and vision to Chatham Hall.
She’s a recognized voice in independent school leadership, presenting regularly at national conferences like the 2024 NAIS Annual Conference, where she spoke on building long-term connections with new families. She’s also contributed to national publications and led workshops focused on community engagement, admissions, and strategic planning.
Originally from the U.K., Rector Stephenson holds dual citizenship and is a graduate of the University of Bristol, where she was valedictorian. She earned her Master of Education from Cambridge University.
She and her husband, Paul, live on campus with their two sons, Jonah and Jasper, and their two dogs, Molly and Stella.
OUR PEOPLE
One of the hallmarks of the Chatham Hall experience is the people you meet and with whom you bond during your time here. Here are just a few of the many who will become indispensable. You can reach out to them with questions you might have over the summer.
Old Girl - Affectionately referred to as New Girls, each newly enrolled student is matched with an Old Girl. These returning students are a fantastic resource for you! From offering advice on what you really need for your dorm room or telling you about her favorite Chatham Hall tradition, your Old Girl is here to help. Ask her anything! She will also be ready to greet you on Move-InDay and will help you learn your way around campus.
Advisor - Every student has a faculty Advisor. Your Advisor is your (and your family’s) go-to adult. Whether it’s registering for classes or having a cheerleader on the sidelines at your game, your Advisor is always available. You’ll have scheduled meetings each week, but you can always drop in to see them at other times, too. You’ll also meet for various activities and outings throughout the year. Additionally, you will be a part of an Advisory group of students from all grades, dorms, and classes. This is a built-in support system from day one. Your Advisor is also there for your parents and is a great resource when they have questions. Advisors are assigned in August, and they’ll reach out to you then. You and your family will meet your Advisor on Move-InDay.
Dorm Advisor & Prefects - Dorm Advisors are adults who live on dorm with the students 24/7. They also partner with Prefects, our student leaders on dorm, who provide support for their peers. Your Dorm Advisor and Prefect(s) are a great source of information related to living on campus.
Director
of Student and Community
Life
- The Director of Student and Community Life oversees everything related to student life, from roommate and dorm assignments to weekend activities and healthcare.
Director of Teaching, Learning, and Research
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The Director of Teaching, Learning, and Research aligns academic programs with Chatham Hall’s mission, supports faculty development, and leads innovation in curriculum and instruction. This role benchmarks programs against global standards, gathers data on excellence in students’ education, and oversees the creation of a Research Center focused on experiential, forward-thinking learning.
Health Care Center - nurses@chathamhall.org
Our team of nurses in the Health Care Center are there to answer any questions you may have about medical appointments, prescription medicine, allergies, using Magnus Health, or anything else. Our HCC is staffed with a nurse 24-hours a day.
Counseling Services - Our licensed counseling staff is available to students by appointment throughout the school year, and also for walk-ins as needed.
Tech Team - techteam@chathamhall.org
Chatham Hall’s esteemed Tech Team will get you and your devices connected. You will hear from them soon about how to set up your Chatham Hall email address. Please reach out to the Tech Team if you have questions about which devices to bring to school, need a password reset, have issues with Wi-Fi, or anything else.
International Student Coordinator - The international student coordinator serves as a resource and point of contact for families from around the globe.
Director of Athletics - The director of athletics supports our students in finding their after-school activities as well as manages our coaching staff.
Director of Riding - Our director of riding is your go-to for everything having to do with our Riding Program, IEA, lessons, and horse boarding.
OUR SYSTEMS
Getting connected on the following platforms will be essential to your transition to Chatham Hall. Through your email, TurtleNet (our academic and school life portal), and Magnus Health (our healthcare portal), you will have access to lots of helpful information.
TurtleNet - TurtleNet (pictured above) is our digital hub! So much information is available to you here. Both students and parents will have TurtleNet accounts, so you can check your class schedule, view report cards, access our directory, and more. Please spend time on the Resource Board and review the many helpful items posted there, including our Community Handbook, packing list, and book list. All required matriculation forms (other than health forms) will be available in TurtleNet. A banner at the top of the page will alert you about forms to be completed.
Email - Chatham Hall uses Gmail for school communications. You will receive set-up instructions through Gmail. Please check these details and get everything set up in a timely fashion, as this email address will be how we share imporatnt details. The only exception is if you are currently in a country which does not support Gmail.
Magnus Health - Chatham Hall uses Magnus Health to maintain student medical records. Your family will receive an email with instructions on how to access Magnus and complete the required health forms. Magnus Health is accessible from the Resource Board in TurtleNet.
REACH - REACH is a key component of life at Chatham Hall. It’s the way students sign in and out to leave campus, share their location while on campus, and sign up for weekend activities. It helps us to keep you safe at all times. You will learn how to sign up and use it during Orientation.
Emergency Alerts - Student and parent alerts may be sent via text message, voicemail, and/or email during emergency situations. The School will perform tests of the emergency alert system each year.
SCHOOL SCHEDULES
The 2025-2026 School Calendar, which is available on TurtleNet year-round, shows the year at a glance, listing all vacation periods, important campus events, and other times you may wish to note. You will also have access to various Chatham Hall calendars through your email which will post daily events once the school year begins (student life, athletics, etc). Please also review the travel guidelines for all students.
Important Dates
August 20
August 24
New International Student Move In
New Domestic Student Move In
August 25 Orientation/Athletics Begin
August 27
First Day of Classes
October 10 Family Day
October 11-15
Fall Long Weekend
November 21- Thanksgiving Break
December 1
December 16- Winter Break
January 5
January 6-22 Jan-Term
January 22-27 Winter Long Weekend
January 28 Spring Semester Begins
March 6-22 Spring Break
April 3 Good Friday - No Afternoon Classes Dorms Remain Open
April 6
May 23
May 24
Weekly Community Gatherings
We gather as a community just about every day at the following:
Move In at Chatham Hall is so much fun! When you arrive on campus, Old Girls will be waiting to help direct you to your dorm and unload your car. You won’t need to lift a finger! Once the car is empty, your first stop is Lee Library for Matriculation. Day students can report directly to the library. Here, you will be able to drop off any last minute forms and check off some final details. The last person you meet in the library will be the Director of Student and Community Life who will give you a move in pass and you’ll be all set to go to your dorm!
All matriculation forms are due on Tuesday, July 1. Many of these forms can be completed in TurtleNet by you and/or your parents. You will receive an email notification when they are available and will also see a banner appear in TurtleNet. Health forms are available through Magnus.
Set up your email Log in to TurtleNet and explore Course selection
Required forms include:
• Parent Guardian Contact Form
• Community Handbook Acknowledgment (available in late summer)
• Parent & Family Volunteer Opportunities
• Activities & Trips Permission
• Roommate & Advisor Survey
• Student Cell Phone Verification
Additional required forms should be submitted to Magnus Health - head to TurtleNet and select the Magnus Health tile.
Additional forms and waivers may be required based on program enrollment such as music lessons and riding.
Note:
Select your fall afternoon activity MAY
Get to know your Old Girl Work on matriculation forms Course registration due Start summer reading
JUNE
JULY Forms due Check out the packing list
Meet your Advisor Receive your schedule Find out your room mate Move-In Day!
AUGUST
SCHOOL LIFE
Turtle Card - Your school ID, or Turtle Card, is used to access all buildings on campus. During Move In, your family will learn more about options for placing money in your account so you can use your Turtle Card in the School Store, Snack Bar, or to get cash from the Business Office for activities. The suggested monthly allowance for students is $150, with the understanding that this may change due to your daughter’s needs and spending habits.
Mail & Packages - All mail should be sent to you using your name and the Chatham Hall address: 800 Chatham Hall Circle, Chatham, VA 24531. Mail will be placed in your box in the Mailroom. If you have a large package, you can collect your package from the Mailroom.
Day Students - Day students are an important part of our community! They are welcome to participate in campus activities outside of the class day and required afternoon activities, such as weekend and evening activities. Select weekend activities are required and will be communicated throughout the year. Day students are assigned to a room on dorm for occasional sleepovers and have access to lounges for relaxing during the school day.
Community Life - At Chatham Hall, we gather often as a community. In addition to the list of traditions included, you can find videos and lyrics to our School songs below, which you will soon learn by singing along with your peers.
Traditions - Chatham Hall’s more than 130-year history has given rise to many traditions. Ask us about:
100 Days ‘til Graduation
Charter Day
Community Weekends
Cookie Break
Decoration Weekend
Family Day
Graduation
Junior Ring Hunt
Lantern Ceremony
Lessons & Carols
New Girls Picnic
Purple vs. Gold Challenges
Rector’s Free Days
… and so much more!
SCHOOL SONGS
Alma Mater
School days bright, that fly so swiftly
Down life’s stream beyond recall, Leave within our hearts abiding Loyalty to Chatham Hall.
Chatham Hall, our Alma Mater, Love for thee, a pledge for all, And forever and forever
We’ll be true to Chatham Hall.
When the golden sun is sinking And the shadows o’er us fall, Memories will take us backward To our days at Chatham Hall.
Chatham Hall, our Alma Mater, Love for thee, a pledge for all, And forever and forever
We’ll be true to Chatham Hall.
TURTLE TALK
Birthday Song (Assembly)
Many happy returns of the day, Turtles. The song is short but it goes to say, Turtles.
We’ll love you when you’re old and gray
Just as much as we do today.
Here’s to many a happy birthday! STAND UP!
Read up on a few terms that are important at Chatham Hall.
• ALT: Stands for Administrative Leadership Team, led by the Rector.
• AOD: Administrator on Duty—available for emergencies and permissions on weekends and outside the school day. Save the number: 434.709.8853. Call for urgent needs; text for permissions.
• Dorm Advisor: Adults who live on each hall in the dorms.
• Dutch: Nickname for Van Voorhis Lecture Hall.
• HCC: Health Care Center—Located in the Athletics, Health, and Wellness Center.
• LDR & SDR: Large and Small Drawing Rooms— cozy meeting/study spaces off the Well.
• Niche: Student commons, located in the bottom floor of Dabney.
• New Girl: New student—becomes an Old Girl during the year.
• Old Girl: Returning student.
• Penny Lane: Path from campus buildings to the barn and beyond.
• TurtleNet: Online portal for schedules, grades, directories, and more.
• Well: Central gathering space under the dome in Pruden; used for Assembly and trip meetups.
• Yardley: Dining hall under Walker Buck Dorm, adjacent to Pruden.
ACADEMICS & ACTIVITIES
School Supplies - You are free to have the school supplies of your choosing. Some teachers may request or recommend you have a particular tool for their course, but they will let you know in the early days of school or even on the book list. Our Campus Bookstore stocks some essentials and we also have weekly shopping trips for anything you need. We definitely recommend having a good daily planner.
Tech - Chatham Hall requires an iPad for all new students—these can be new or refurbished. Laptops are not required. See the Schedule of Charges for specs. Don’t forget, you can always email techteam@chathamhall.org with questions.
Summer Reading - Please visit the Academic Resource Board on TurtleNet to review any required summer reading or work.
Music - Students who wish to take private piano lessons can view the Schedule of Charges for rates. St. Mary’s Choir is open to all students.
World Language Placement - World language course placement is primarily based on previous class experience. If the placed level appears too advanced or not advanced enough, teachers and students can request placement in a more suitable class level.
Afternoon Activities
We like to know our students are up and moving, so a performance-based activity is required for all students in the afternoon!
Theatre - Fall Play, Winter Musical, & Spring Collaborative
Dance & Yoga - Offered each season
Robotics - Robotics takes place in the fall as a club and in the winter as a team and member of the FIRST global robotics community.
Sports
• Fall: Cross Country, Field Hockey, Tennis, Volleyball
Riding - Students may try out for the IEA team when school begins. Riding is also available seasonally as an afternoon activity, and students may take private lessons. Please see the Schedule of Charges for associated fees.
Weekly P&G - Every Friday afternoon, the P&G Newsletter will arrive in your inbox. It’s filled with news from the week and upcoming events. Be sure to read it so you don’t miss anything.
To ensure you receive School emails, please add communications@chathamhall.org to your contacts or safe sender list. Click here to learn more and for instructions.
Chat
The Chat is the School’s magazine published twice yearly. Check your mailboxes to stay up to date on campus news, community features, and more!
Social Media
Get an inside look into the Chatham Hall experience by following us on social media. We are active on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn and often share pictures and updates from inside classrooms and around campus.
We can’t wait to see you in August!
Parent Advisory Council (PAC) - PAC is made up of parents from grades 10-12. Your family will hear from a PAC representative over the summer to welcome you and answer any questions you may have. They also help to organize volunteers for various events throughout the year and keep all parents active and engaged at Chatham Hall.
Amy Midkiff P’22, ‘27 (amidkiff@halifax.k12.va.us) is the PAC president and your Chatham Hall PAC contact is Director of Development & Engagement Kimber Keating P’20, ‘22, ‘24 (kkeatingchathamhall. org).
Parents are welcome and encouraged to be involved on campus! Whether it’s attending a play, horse show, athletic event, or a weekend visit with your child, we love to see and get to know you.
