PHOTOS: UMFS opens new Charterhouse School addition, expanding programs and enhancing student services

UMFS, a statewide nonprofit leader in child and family services, has opened an addition to Charterhouse School, a specialized educational program for K-12 students with learning and behavioral challenges rooted in trauma.

The 23,000-square-foot addition will expand Charterhouse’s capacity and includes nine classrooms, two of which focus on career and technical education.

Charterhouse School is the only specialized education facility in Virginia that provides a day program as well as educational services for youth in residential treatment who are experiencing significant mental health and behavioral challenges.

Charterhouse offers small classroom sizes, providing individualized approaches for students with unique learning challenges that are rooted in trauma.

Each classroom in the Charterhouse addition accommodates 16 youth, doubling capacity for Charterhouse’s Applied Curriculum Programs, and includes smart board integration, flexible seating and ample storage to promote an enriched and dynamic learning environment for students.

Collaborative spaces will support academic pullout groups – small group settings that provide opportunities for students to interact with similar strengths and abilities – and provide dedicated areas for therapists to meet with students.

“The Charterhouse School addition considers every aspect of the classroom space, including students’ needs, academic instruction, and creativity, to enhance the learning environment for both learners and staff,” said Nancy Toscano, president and CEO of UMFS. “We are very intentional when it comes to creating spaces that prioritize functionality and ensure students feel safe and comfortable and are able to thrive.”

The addition also includes a new kitchen and a 100-person capacity cafeteria that is equipped with modern appliances and new equipment.

Following the transformation of its Child & Family Healing Center in May 2022, the Charterhouse School addition completes part two of the nonprofit’s capital campaign for updates to its campus.

Click here to learn more about Charterhouse School, its programs, and educational services.