Rectory School
Pomfret, Connecticut
528 Pomfret Street P.O. Box 68 Pomfret, CT 06258
Junior Boarding at Rectory School
Rectory School is a close-knit, purpose-driven junior boarding school for grades 5–9 and day school for students in grades K–9, located on a 138-acre campus in Connecticut’s Last Green Valley. Here, every student is known, supported, and challenged to grow with confidence and integrity. We believe that when students feel seen and valued, they develop the courage to explore who they are—and who they are becoming.
Our approach is intentionally personal. Small class sizes, meaningful relationships, and individualized learning pathways allow teachers to meet students where they are and guide them forward. Rooted in research on how children learn and thrive, Rectory’s active, engaging classrooms inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of discovery. Learning extends well beyond the classroom—on the athletic fields, in the arts, through outdoor exploration, and within our residential life program—giving students the space to grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
What truly sets Rectory apart is its culture. Guided by the core values of Responsibility, Respect, Honesty, and Compassion, our community is built on trust, empathy, and shared purpose. Students are encouraged to take pride in their environment, care for one another, and grow through meaningful relationships. They don’t just attend school—they participate fully, contribute thoughtfully, and learn how to lead with heart.
At Rectory, being part of the Pack means having a community that supports you every step of the way. With a balance of high expectations and deep care, students develop the confidence, character, and curiosity to navigate their world and shape their future.
Enrollment
210 - Middle School - 145 boarders | 65 day Enrolled
Grades Offered
Enrolling: Grades K-9
Boarding: Grades 5-9
School Mission
Rectory School’s mission is to provide students, from early childhood through middle school, with an enriched and supportive academic, social, and ethical community that addresses individual learning styles, aptitudes and needs while promoting personal self-worth and accountability.
“To put it simply, we have been thrilled with our son’s experience at Rectory over the last 3 and a half years. Initially hesitant about junior boarding schools, the impact has been profound. His dorm parents offer incredible support and care, creating a true home away from home. Rectory broadened his horizons; he discovered a passion for acting through the diverse activities and the school’s encouraging culture. The entire faculty and staff create a warm, supportive community where each child feels valued. Sending him here was the best decision, leading to significant academic, social, and emotional growth. We wholeheartedly recommend Rectory for a nurturing and challenging experience.”
Parent
Junior Boarding at Rectory School
Rectory School is a close-knit, purpose-driven junior boarding school for grades 5–9 and day school for students in grades K–9, located on a 138-acre campus in Connecticut’s Last Green Valley. Here, every student is known, supported, and challenged to grow with confidence and integrity. We believe that when students feel seen and valued, they develop the courage to explore who they are—and who they are becoming.
Our approach is intentionally personal. Small class sizes, meaningful relationships, and individualized learning pathways allow teachers to meet students where they are and guide them forward. Rooted in research on how children learn and thrive, Rectory’s active, engaging classrooms inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of discovery. Learning extends well beyond the classroom—on the athletic fields, in the arts, through outdoor exploration, and within our residential life program—giving students the space to grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
What truly sets Rectory apart is its culture. Guided by the core values of Responsibility, Respect, Honesty, and Compassion, our community is built on trust, empathy, and shared purpose. Students are encouraged to take pride in their environment, care for one another, and grow through meaningful relationships. They don’t just attend school—they participate fully, contribute thoughtfully, and learn how to lead with heart.
At Rectory, being part of the Pack means having a community that supports you every step of the way. With a balance of high expectations and deep care, students develop the confidence, character, and curiosity to navigate their world and shape their future.
School Facilities
Rectory’s 138-acre New England campus blends scenic natural beauty with purpose-built spaces designed for how students learn, live, and grow. From modern classrooms and science labs to gathering in the Hettinger Library, experiencing ancient cities in the Morgan Innovation Lab, and exploring creativity through art studios and dedicated music and performance spaces, every environment supports curiosity, connection, and discovery. Athletics are central to campus life, supported by well-maintained fields and courts, indoor training spaces, and areas for fitness and team development. Our dorms provide welcoming spaces for residential life, while community areas and campus trails encourage connection, play, and everyday adventure.
Academics
Rectory’s academics are built on small classes, teacher-student relationships, and a research-informed approach to learning. Our K–9 curriculum blends core subjects with hands-on projects, the arts, and experiential learning. Personalized pathways, enrichment opportunities, and targeted academic support ensure every student is appropriately challenged, grows in confidence, and is well prepared for what comes next.
Athletics
Rectory’s athletics program fosters a lifelong love of movement while building skills, confidence, and character. Middle school students participate each season on teams offered at multiple levels, ensuring every athlete is supported and challenged at the right pace. With an emphasis on skill development, sportsmanship, and joy in the game—alongside interschool competition—the program serves beginners and competitive varsity athletes alike. Rectory is a proud member of the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC).
Arts
At Rectory, performing and studio arts are an integral part of school life. All students study music each year, with opportunities to participate in ensembles, chorus, orchestra, and live performances. Performing arts come to life through theater classes, world drumming, guitar classes, dedicated rehearsal and performance spaces, and the annual Spring Musical. Studio arts offer hands-on experiences in drawing, ceramics, photography, woodshop, and digital media—encouraging exploration, artistic growth, and personal voice across disciplines.
Signature Program(s)
Rectory’s Signature Programs extend learning beyond the classroom and prepare students for what comes next. The May Experiential Learning Program (MELP) immerses students in hands-on, real-world projects that build curiosity and independence. The Bigelow Honors challenges motivated learners through interdisciplinary, project-based coursework that blends humanities, arts, and technology while fostering creativity, leadership, and a passion for discovery. The 9th Grade Capstone strengthens research, presentation, and time-management skills through guided independent study. Personalized Secondary School Advising supports families throughout the high school placement process, ensuring every student discovers their best-fit path with clarity and confidence.
Summer Programs
Summer@Rectory is Rectory School’s premier summer experience for students ages 9–14. Each morning, students dive into hands-on, project-based academic workshops guided by their interests and led by expert faculty. From robotics and engineering challenges to creative writing, science labs, musical theater, ELL, and more, mornings are packed with discovery, collaboration, and accomplishments worth celebrating. After lunch, the energy shifts into full summer mode. Afternoons are all about fun and trying something new every day—swimming in the pool, biking wooded trails, playing tennis, basketball, or soccer on the fields and courts, creating in the Art Barn, or relaxing with games in the Wolf Den. The perfect mix of structure and freedom lets students choose activities that light them up, build real confidence through challenge and play, and form meaningful friendships that often last well beyond summer.
