SHELL

SHELL - Strategies for Engagement in Learning for Life empowers every girl to take purposeful ownership of her learning and step fully into her potential. Grounded in the understanding that learning can be taught, strengthened, and refined, the program supports our girls in understanding how they learn, managing their learning with greater intention, and responding effectively to academic challenges. Students strengthen executive functioning, self-advocacy, metacognition, and cognitive resilience while learning to recognize what supports their success, evaluate their approaches, and adapt when faced with challenges.

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Individualized academic coaching reinforces this work through reflection, strategic thinking, and increasing independence. SHELL responds to a range of learning needs, providing targeted support for neurodivergent students and those with learning differences while offering additional structure and guidance to students who benefit from it. These capacities prepare our girls to meet the academic rigor of Chatham Hall, embrace challenge, and grow as curious, capable thinkers ready to lead lives of impact.

A focus on student independence
Strategies for Higher Engagement in Learning for Life - SHELL helps our girls better understand how they learn, recognize what they need, and increasingly advocate for and manage their own success.

Individualized support within a rigorous academic environment
Through our academic coaching and targeted support, students build the skills, confidence, and independence to navigate academic challenges and thrive at Chatham Hall

Extending our Impact beyond direct student support. SHELL is expanding its professional learning work with faculty and staff, building shared knowledge and practical strategies that deepen our collective understanding of how students learn and strengthen the support we provide for all students as they navigate academic challenges with confidence and independence.

Science Department Chair

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Amelia Kolach

Science Department Chair; Chemistry Teacher; Coach

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Science Department Chair Amelia Kolach came to Chatham Hall in 2021 from Storm King School having previously taught at Emma Willard School. She received both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute where she studied biochemistry, biophysics, studio arts, and psychology. A former archery champion, Amelia enjoys camping, spending time with family, cooking/baking, and music.

Program Highlights

Teaches students to question, observe, experiment, and evaluate.
Fosters purposeful inquiry and judgment.
Builds the academic background needed for scientific pursuits in college.

Covers core pathways in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Offers advanced options like Advanced Biology, Advanced Chemistry, and Advanced Physics I.
Features targeted rigorous tracks including Physics I Honors and Physics II Honors.
Blends unique interdisciplinary topics like Chemistry & Art and Dendrology.
Explores niche fields such as Neurobiology, Anatomy & Physiology, and Forensics.