In 2016 Laura Haskins became the Head of School at Orchard House Middle School. She has 25 years of experience in independent school education, including a foundation of classroom teaching and educational leadership spanning a wide spectrum of student development. The growth of adolescent girls holds a special place in her professional interests and heart.

Laura began her educational career with a decade teaching both lower elementary and middle school students, providing her with invaluable insights into child development and the unique needs of students across different developmental stages. Her firsthand understanding of the classroom experience continues to inform her leadership approach and commitment to supporting both students and faculty.

Before joining Orchard House, Laura served as Assistant Head of School at Williamsburg Montessori School, where she honed her administrative skills and developed her vision for progressive, student-centered education. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes creating an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally during the critical middle school years. Laura commits to staying at the forefront of educational best practices and innovation, and as a Klingenstein Fellow at Columbia University, she engaged in advanced study of independent school leadership.

Laura firmly believes in the transformative power of an inclusive learning environment dedicated to girls, particularly during the critical adolescent stage of development. She understands that middle school girls thrive when they can take intellectual risks, speak up confidently in class, and pursue their interests. With Laura’s guidance and vision, Orchard House and its faculty and staff can steadily commit to creating an environment where girls build both confidence and competence, developing strong voices and leadership skills that will serve them throughout their lives.