Vermont Academy

Vermont Academy. Founded in 1876, it is a private, coeducational boarding and day school for students in grades 9–12 and postgraduate year. Located in the village of Saxtons River within the Green Mountains, the academy emphasizes a college-preparatory curriculum alongside a strong commitment to character development and outdoor education. Its historic campus and tight-knit community have fostered a distinctive educational experience in New England for nearly 150 years.

History

The school was chartered in 1876, emerging during a period of growth for independent schools in New England following the American Civil War. Its founding was supported by local leaders and the Congregational church, aiming to provide rigorous academic preparation. Early decades saw the construction of key buildings like Fuller Hall, named for a prominent early benefactor. The institution originally served only male students but transitioned to coeducation in the early 1970s, merging briefly with the nearby Saxtons River school for girls. Throughout the 20th century, it maintained its identity as a small, residential school, navigating challenges like the Great Depression and World War II. The curriculum has continually evolved, incorporating progressive educational ideas while retaining core traditions.

Campus

The 515-acre campus is situated in the rural village of Saxtons River, near the Connecticut River valley. The architectural style is predominantly Federal and Colonial Revival, with Fuller Hall serving as a central administrative and classroom building. Other significant structures include Horne Hall for science, the Forbes Hall theater, and the Shepardson Center for student life. Athletic facilities are extensive, featuring the Bishop Field for lacrosse and soccer, the Mack skating rink for ice hockey, and numerous trails for cross-country running. The expansive grounds include forests, fields, and the Saxtons River, which supports the school's outdoor program.

Academics

The academic program is college-preparatory, offering a core curriculum with advanced courses and independent study options. Distinctive programs include a dedicated STEM initiative, a robust visual arts department with studios in ceramics and photography, and a performing arts emphasis through Forbes Hall. All students complete a capstone Senior Project, often involving original research or creative work. The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio, facilitating a Harkness-style discussion method in many classes. Graduates regularly matriculate to a range of colleges and universities, including Ivy League institutions, state universities, and prominent liberal arts colleges like Middlebury College.

Student life

As a boarding school, community life centers on residential houses, each with faculty advisors. Traditions are a key component, including Mountain Day, an annual surprise holiday for outdoor activities, and Winter Carnival. The Outdoor Program leverages the school's location for hiking, backcountry skiing, and rock climbing. Student-led organizations include a debate team, multicultural alliance, and community service groups that partner with local organizations in Vermont. Weekends offer structured activities, from trips to Boston or Montreal to on-campus events. The Honor Code, administered by a student-faculty council, underpins daily life.

Athletics

Athletics are integral, competing in the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) and the Lakes Region League. Teams are known as the Wildcats. The school has a particular strength in ice hockey, with both boys' and girls' teams frequently competing in postseason tournaments. Other notable programs include skiing, snowboarding, lacrosse, and soccer. The academy also offers non-competitive athletic options like yoga and outdoor education to fulfill requirements. Facilities support these activities year-round, from the Mack rink in winter to the renovated Bishop Field in spring.

Notable alumni

Alumni, known as Wildcats, have achieved distinction in diverse fields. In arts and literature, they include poet and critic John Ciardi and painter Stephen Etnier. The entertainment world is represented by actor and director Timothy Busfield. In sports, notable figures include National Hockey League player Martin St. Louis and Olympic skier Doug Lewis. Public service and law feature individuals like former Vermont Supreme Court Justice James L. Oakes. The business sector includes entrepreneurs and philanthropists such as John H. Sununu, former White House Chief of Staff.