A new Catholic school has just opened its doors this fall. Chesterton Academy, located in Nokesville, VA, offers a classical learning experience to students in grades 9-12. Find out more below in this week's Small Business Spotlight.
What is the story behind your business? How did you get started?
Four homeschool families wanted something more for their children. Research brought them to Chesterton Academy model started in Minnesota 15 years ago. The Chesterton Academies now number 72 across the United States with 26 more slated to open before 2030. Next year Purceville, Arlington, and Stanton should open their Chesterton Academy. This is a high school with a higher purpose. Found on the principles of the Catholic Church, students attend mass daily, begin each class with prayer, and seek the connections God has revealed to us through an integrated, classical education.Chesterton Academy of Saint Thomas Aquinas found our home on Fitzwater Drive in Nokesville. After renovating an old school building, we opened our doors August 13, 2025 and have been so pleased to see God’s goodness and grace working among us.
What does Chesterton Academy offer families?
Chesterton Academy of St. Thomas Aquinas offers an integrated Catholic classical learning experience. We are a high school with the purpose of raising Catholic leaders through the foundation of critical thinking and Socratic conversations. Students learn Latin and then apply the language skills in choir, which they share with the parishioners at Latin mass. It’s a dynamic learning experience.
What are some fun facts about Chesterton Academy?
We have 15 beautiful acres that we share with Renaissance Montessori School and their chickens. The chickens have been seen using proper safety measures by crossing the driveway in the crosswalk.We’ve instituted Thankful Thursdays where we sit family style around a big table, enjoy each other’s company, and remember to say what we are thankful for in our lives. Our small class sizes foster the family atmosphere that we grow stronger in. Finally, we are geographically the closest high school grounded in the Catholic tradition for both Gainesville and Warrenton.
What are you most proud of?
That we opened our doors. We’ve set our hearts and hands to the task of growing our students body, mind, and spirit. It’s hard work, but so incredibly worth it.
Are there any special offers you are running? Would you like to include any incentives for Macaroni KID subscribers?
If a student visits for a VIP Shadow Day and/or refers someone who attends a Shadow Day, we will offer a $100 voucher for the Shadow Day and the referral to be used towards admissions.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
We have Shadow Days monthly, with our next on Thursday, December 4th. Families can sign up their child for shadow days HERE.
Chesterton Academy
12625 Fitzwater Drive
Nokesville, VA 20181
https://www.facebook.com/chestertonsta
