About Holton

Inveniam viam aut faciam

In 1901, 19 years before women had the right to vote, two women - Jessie Moon Holton and Carolyn Hough Arms - founded the Holton-Arms School. Articulating their vision of what a school for girls could be, Mrs. Holton would write, "My high hope is that they who [enter] through the Open Door of Holton-Arms remember that they felt, in the friendliness of a home, the urge to learn and the joy of overcoming obstacles as the way to happiness and the fullest life." Their school would be one to develop the unique potential of each girl and "educate not only the mind, but the soul and spirit."

Today, Holton-Arms School is a special place for young women to learn, grow, and prepare for the future by developing their unique potential, discovering their passions, exploring new ideas, and pursuing academic excellence. At Holton, girls learn to build their character, give back to their community, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-confidence, and leadership. Students and teachers enjoy close relationships, in a supportive and nurturing community that includes parents and alumnae.

Members of the Holton community share a common interest in the School's progress towards the future while preserving its history, support one another with the main focus on the current students, enthusiastically participate in school events, projects, service, and giving, take risks and learn to lead, and form lasting friendships that are cultivated in a loving and supportive community. Holton-Arms seeks to create a community that respects differences, understands multiple talents, cultures, intelligences, and learning modes, expects civility in the discourse and behavior of its members, and inspires a passion for inquiry and knowledge.

The school's motto, Inveniam viam aut faciam, resonates with all members of the community - students, alumnae, faculty, and staff, and parents. The very words speak of self-discovery, curiosity, resilience, response to challenges - both as individuals and as members of a larger community - their school, their country, their world.

I will find a way or make one