At Rumsey Hall, mealtimes transcend ordinary routines—they’re cherished moments where our community connects, recharges, and grows together. Our dining program embodies the essence of campus life: welcoming, joyful, and steeped in tradition.
In our dining hall, I’ve watched countless friendships form over shared meals. It’s where our community truly becomes a family.
Rick Butler, Director of Residential Life / Upper School Science Faculty
Our Dining Hall
The heart of campus life, our dining hall is where students, faculty, and staff gather three times a day to enjoy wholesome, balanced meals. With views of the surrounding hills and a bright, open, communal layout, it’s a place where everyone feels at home.
Family-Style Meals
Every night, dinner is served family-style — an intentional pause in the day to build community. Students rotate tables throughout the year, sharing conversation and responsibilities like setting and clearing the table. These meals foster connection, courtesy, and a sense of shared responsibility.
Pop-up Experiences
From impromptu smoothie stations and ice cream to hot chocolate on a snowy day, our creative kitchen team finds ways to bring joy to the dining experience. Many of these pop-ups also include opportunities for students to learn about nutrition — like how to build a balanced plate, explore healthy snack options, or discover new fruits and vegetables.
Seasonal Celebrations and Traditions
From welcome dinners in September to holiday meals in November and December, our dining program honors the rhythms of the school year. Throughout the year, themed dinners highlight global cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and cultural celebrations — from Lunar New Year festivities to backyard barbecues. These special events deepen our sense of community and help create memories that last well beyond graduation.
The Lower School Dining Experience
In the Lower School, lunch is a cornerstone of daily life and an extension of the Rumsey Hall values. Students in Kindergarten through 5th Grade (and Pre‑K in the spring) share tables with faculty, rotating every three weeks to build connections across grades. Older students serve as prefects and table leaders, mentoring younger children and fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment. Together, they practice responsibility and respect — setting tables, managing cleanup, making announcements, and sharing moments like singing for birthdays.
