Specialized special education school in Richmond, VA serving grades 1-12 with Circle of Courage approach and small 8:1 class sizes
Charterhouse School is a specialized special education institution in Richmond, VA, founded in 1978, serving grades 1 through 12. It focuses on helping students become self-sufficient by addressing individual academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs through the Circle of Courage framework: belonging, independence, mastery, and generosity. With a co-ed student body of 71 students and 46% students of color, the school fosters an inclusive environment where every child feels valued.
With an average class size of 8 and 16 classroom teachers, Charterhouse provides small, structured settings ideal for students with autism, emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, or other health impairments. The school offers specific support for ADD/ADHD and learning differences, ensuring that instruction is tailored to each student's unique developmental stage and IEP goals.
Charterhouse School is nonsectarian and offers rolling admissions, making it accessible to families seeking specialized education. Beyond academics, the school provides opportunities for social development through sports like basketball and flag football, as well as clubs such as cheerleading and horticulture. For detailed information on tuition, specific course offerings, and admission contact with Associate Admissions Kay Currie, families are encouraged to visit the school at (804) 239-1080 or their website.
At a Glance
TypeSpecial Education School
Grades1-12
Students71
Class Size8:1 ratio
Est.1978
DeadlineNone / Rolling
Accreditation & Memberships
Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS)
School Information
| School Type | Special Education School |
| Year Founded | 1978 |
| Total Students | 71 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 16 |
| Average Class Size | 8 |
| Grades Offered | 1-12 |
Admissions Information
| Admissions Associate | Kay Currie |
| Admission Deadline | None / Rolling |
Student Body Information
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 46 |
Academic Programs Information
Special Education Programs
Learning Difference ProgramsADD/ADHD Support
Learning Programs Supported
Autism and Other Neurological DifferencesEmotional DisabilitiesLearning DisabilitiesIntellectual DisabilitiesDevelopmental DisabilitiesOther Health Impairments
List of Courses Offered
Link to List of Courses
Sports and Extracurricular Information
| Sports | Basketball · Flag Football · Soccer |
| Clubs and Organizations | Club or Organization: · Cheerleading/Pep Squad · Horticulture |
Additional Information
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS) |
| Religious Affiliations | Nonsectarian |
| School Calendar | www.umfs.org/calendar |
| Summer School Offered | Yes |
| Offers Post Graduate Year | Yes |
Contact the school
(804) 239-10803900 W Broad St, Richmond, Virginia 23230
www.umfs.org/services/specialized-education