Head's Welcome
Welcome to Chapin School!
It is with great joy and a full heart that I welcome you to our school’s website. After retiring in 2023, I never imagined that I would return to Chapin, a place that has been home to me for 36 years. My last six years as Head of School were some of the most rewarding of my life, so the answer to the question, “Why return?” is simple: I believe deeply in Chapin and in the values that form its very foundation.
Chapin is built on relationships—the connection between students and faculty, faculty and parents, and colleagues who support each other in every endeavor. These relationships are strengthened by the five virtues we hold dear: respect, responsibility, honesty, kindness, and perseverance. These virtues are not just words; they shape the way we interact with one another and guide us in every aspect of school life.
Throughout my career at Chapin, I witnessed firsthand the incredible impact of these virtues combined with our rich academic program. Our students graduate prepared not just for the challenges they will face in secondary school but for life. They leave Chapin equipped with the skills to navigate an ever-changing world, the confidence to learn, unlearn, and relearn, and most importantly, a deep sense of who they are. Chapin graduates are more than just well-prepared academically; they are compassionate, thoughtful, and principled young people who understand the importance of standing firm in their core values.
As I return to this community, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the mission of Chapin. I am eager to continue our work together, supporting and nurturing the next generation of students who will carry these virtues and lessons with them as they grow into remarkable individuals.
Please come visit to learn about the Chapin experience. I look forward to meeting you!
With warmest regards,
From incoming Interim Head of School, Steve Bristol
Chapin Friends and Families:
I am honored to accept the position as Interim Head of School at Chapin beginning July 1, 2025.
My connection to Chapin runs deep—as the parent of two Chapin graduates and through my professional experience as Director of Enrollment Management at a local independent school. During these past few weeks of reconnecting with Chapin, I've noticed that while much has changed, the core values and character that define this special community remain strong.
My wife and I chose Chapin for our children because it reflected our family values. The school's dual commitment to academic excellence and character development created the perfect environment for our children to grow and learn.
As I begin welcoming new families to Chapin, I want to highlight these same enduring qualities. Since 1931, Chapin's faculty have understood that their mission extends beyond academic preparation. While we certainly equip students with the intellectual skills needed for success in high school, college, and beyond, we believe these skills must rest on a foundation of strong character and work ethic. Our five virtues—respect, responsibility, honesty, kindness, and perseverance—are embodied by our faculty daily, creating an ideal environment for children to develop both character and intellect.
To our current families: thank you for your warm welcome. I'm excited to partner with you in nurturing, supporting, and challenging your children.
To families visiting our website for the first time: welcome to a truly exceptional educational opportunity. I encourage you to visit our campus, meet our students, and most importantly, connect with the educators who both teach and live our school's virtues.
Yours sincerely,
Steven C. Bristol P ‘13, ‘16