Tonya Buffington

Current Parent
Grade 5
About: 

I am one of five kids and was born and raised in Richmond. I graduated from VCU/MCV and am an internal medicine clinical pharmacist. I enjoy exploring small towns, trying new restaurants, listening to live music and reading a good book. 

My daughter's hobbies/interests:

My daughter has been doing gymnastics since she was 2 years old and is currently competing in her 4th year on team. She plays the piano and loves playing basketball. This summer she went to Camp Illahee and it quickly became one of her favorite places.  

Things we enjoy doing as a family:

We enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling and game nights.  We also love going on adventures with our 1-year-old golden retriever, Annie.

Favorite St. Catherine's tradition or memory:

My daughter has been at St. Catherine’s since early learners, and we have many wonderful memories of her time here. One memory that stands is the opening ceremony during her fourth grade year. Fourth grade is such a special time as the girls get to be the leaders of the lower school. She was chosen to speak at the opening ceremony in front of the entire school, and watching her stand up there with such confidence, poise, and self-assurance was incredibly special. The school does such an incredible job of empowering girls, encouraging them to find their voices, and giving them the confidence and skills to speak comfortably in front of others- skills that will serve her well throughout her life. 

Why we chose St. Catherine's:

When we began thinking about our daughter's educational future, we weren’t sure whether a private or public school would be the right fit. We wanted to explore our options and find an environment where she could truly thrive, not just academically but as a whole person. From the moment we stepped onto the St. Catherine’s campus, something about it felt like home. We were immediately struck by the school’s commitment to developing each girl as an individual and empowering her to become confident in who she is. We loved the intentionality behind an all-girls education and the opportunity it provides to teach girls in ways that support how they learn, think, and grow. She looks forward to going to school every single day and that is something I will never take for granted. As a parent, there is no greater gift than knowing your child feels happy, safe, supported, challenged, and loved in the place where she spends so much of her time.

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Located in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, St. Catherine’s School is a private, all-girls pre-K, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school. We provide a well-rounded educational experience for girls from communities across Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico and all of central Virginia. St. Catherine’s all-girls educational experience is rooted in more than a century of history and tradition. From our revolutionary past to our dynamic present, St. Catherine’s has always focused on preparing students for a boundless future.