Head's Welcome

Welcome! 

The first time I visited Chapin’s campus, I was led on a tour by two eighth grade students. While the tour was lovely, what struck me most was the way that the students discussed character education at Chapin. Having worked in a variety of independent schools, I am used to the notion that character is an important virtue that schools promote. However, the way that my tour guides discussed the Chapin Virtues so seamlessly as a part of their daily lives – that, I had never quite experienced before. 

Likewise, as we toured the building it became apparent that my eighth-grade guides were well known to the students in early childhood and the lower grades. They had, in fact, interacted in many different ways as part of their Chapin experience and displayed a high level of familiarity and friendship with each other. Such a tight-knit student community composed of students from ages 3-14 was not something I was accustomed to seeing.  

During lunch with a group of students in Grades 5-8, I was impressed with the level of genuine affection the students expressed for their peers, their teachers, and their school. This was equally apparent in my discussions with teachers, who demonstrated an obvious commitment to the well-being and development of their students.  

As I reflected on my visit, it was clear that Chapin provides an environment in which students are known, valued, and cared for, and their individuality as well as their contributions to the school community are appreciated. Chapin is a special place – an environment I knew very quickly that I wanted to join.  

Children thrive in an educational environment in which they can be appreciated for the talents and interests that make each of them wholly unique. The faculty’s unfailing encouragement and enthusiastic guidance of their students – the incredibly strong bonds they create with their students – make Chapin an environment in which students can become the best versions of themselves, developing the self-awareness, life skills, and confidence to position themselves best for the challenges and opportunities ahead.  

I look forward to welcoming you all to campus soon!  

Warm Regards,  

Bill Ennist 

Head of School