Waterford Country School: 1922-2022

From the cramped quarters of New York City in 1922, childcare pioneers Ettie and Henry Schacht looked to the expansive woodlands of Connecticut for their school and found a perfect location in the town of Quaker Hill. The Schachts purchased 500 acres of farmland complete with two large but old farmhouses and an unused dairy barn. Over the years, a number of cabins, camp buildings, and farm and support facilities were added to the property, and in 1942, the program blossomed into a coveted and ambitious year-round boarding school. The Schachts inspired various specialized programs, including a special education school and residential and foster care programs. In addition, the founders established an ambitious outdoor education facility, its setting surrounded by an adventure challenge course, farm sanctuary, log cabin, and nature center. Celebrating its centennial anniversary, Waterford Country School's innovative and successful Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) program continues to work around the clock to meet the special needs of children and families at risk.