St. Paul's School (New Hampshire)

St. Paul's School (New Hampshire) is a highly selective, coeducational boarding school located in Concord, New Hampshire. Founded in 1856, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious college-preparatory schools in the United States, known for its rigorous academic program and expansive rural campus. The school operates under an Episcopal tradition but welcomes students of all faiths, emphasizing community and intellectual inquiry.

History

The school was established in 1856 by George Cheyne Shattuck Jr., a prominent Boston physician, with the initial guidance of Henry Augustus Coit, who served as the first Rector. Modeled after English public schools like Rugby School, its early years were defined by a classical curriculum and a strong Anglican character. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it educated scions of America's elite, including members of the Astor family and the Vanderbilt family. Significant modernization began under Rev. Dr. Samuel S. Drury in the early 20th century, who expanded the campus and academic offerings. The school became fully coeducational in 1971, admitting its first female students. In recent decades, it has engaged in significant institutional reflection, including investigations by the New Hampshire Attorney General related to past misconduct, while continuing to evolve its educational mission.

Campus

The school's 2,000-acre campus is situated on the shores of Turkey Pond and Horseshoe Pond in Concord, New Hampshire. Its architectural core is the Chapel of St. Peter and St. Paul, a Gothic Revival building that is a central landmark. Other notable facilities include the Ohrstrom Library, the Friedman Community Center, and the Lindsay Center for Mathematics and Science. The grounds encompass extensive athletic fields, over 25 miles of trails, a solar farm, and the Cricket Lower School for day students. The campus design integrates historic stone buildings with modern, sustainable facilities, maintaining a distinct New England collegiate atmosphere.

Academics

The academic program is centered on a rigorous humanities core, advanced STEM courses, and a commitment to Harkness-style discussion. Students typically carry five courses per trimester, with a curriculum that includes over 150 offerings, from advanced studies in Multivariable calculus to seminars on Postcolonial literature. All seniors complete a Senior Demo, an independent scholarly or artistic project. The school consistently sends graduates to top-tier universities, including Harvard University, Yale University, and Stanford University. Faculty, over 70% of whom hold advanced degrees, are deeply involved in both teaching and residential life.

Student life

All students and most faculty live on campus, creating a fully residential community. Students reside in one of 18 houses, each with its own traditions and faculty advisors. A required non-denominational Chapel service is held several times weekly. The school fields over 70 athletic teams, known as the Big Red, competing in the Independent School League in sports like crew, ice hockey, and lacrosse. A rich array of clubs includes debate, the Philomathean Society, and community service organizations. The school calendar is punctuated by formal traditions like Founders Day and informal house competitions.

Notable alumni

Alumni, known as Old Paulines, have achieved prominence in diverse fields. In government and public service, notable figures include former United States Secretary of State John Kerry, former FBI Director Robert Mueller, and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. The literary world counts authors John Knowles and James Salter among its graduates. Influential figures in business and philanthropy include John D. Rockefeller III and investor William H. Donaldson. Other distinguished alumni encompass journalist Garry Trudeau, filmmaker Michael Crichton, and Olympic gold medalist Tara Mounsey.