Located in Thetford Center, Vermont, Thetford Academy is the state’s oldest secondary school, with a rich history dating back to 1819. It has served the community for over two centuries, providing a robust educational experience for students. Known for its academic rigor, rich traditions, and diverse student body, Thetford Academy continues to uphold its mission of excellence in education.
History of Thetford Academy
Thetford Academy opened its doors in February 1819, following a provision in the Vermont Constitution mandating the establishment of post-elementary schools for each county. From the very beginning, Thetford Academy admitted both boys and girls, and the original building featured separate entrances for each. The academy quickly became popular, and its student body grew rapidly, leading to the construction of new buildings. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed the original building in 1942, but the school was promptly rebuilt with the Colonial Revival-style White Building, which still serves as the heart of the campus.
Campus and Facilities
The campus spans 295 acres and is equipped with several athletic fields, trails for hiking, running, mountain biking, and Nordic skiing. Key buildings include the White Building, Anderson Hall, Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium, and the Arts and Sciences Building. In 2010, Thetford Academy completed a campus development project that added state-of-the-art science labs, new athletic facilities, a performing arts theater, and a greenhouse.
Academic Programs
Thetford Academy offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to engage students in the arts, humanities, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and wellness. The school’s Unified Arts curriculum includes visual arts, design technology, drama, music, and culinary arts, while its STEM program focuses on the development of essential skills in science and technology. The Wellness program incorporates physical education and health courses, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.
Student Life and Extracurriculars
Thetford Academy is committed to fostering a dynamic student life that includes a variety of extracurricular activities. Students can participate in clubs such as art, bass fishing, gaming, gender equity, robotics, and student government. The school’s advisory program pairs students with faculty members who help them develop personal learning plans (PLPs) and reflect on their academic progress. Advisors also facilitate communication between students, parents, and the school.
Annual traditions such as Founder’s Day and Mountain Day encourage student involvement in community-building activities, including winter carnivals, arts festivals, hiking excursions, and team-building projects.
Athletics and Sports
As a Division III school, Thetford Academy participates in a wide range of interscholastic sports, including baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, cross country running, track and field, and alpine skiing. The academy is known for its strong sportsmanship and has earned several awards in recognition of its commitment to excellence. Additionally, Thetford Academy hosts the Vermont State High School Cross Country Championships every fall.
Admissions and Tuition
Thetford Academy offers tuition for students attending from “sending towns” in Vermont and New Hampshire, as well as private payment options. The tuition for the 2020–2021 school year was $19,965, with additional financial aid and scholarship programs available to support families. The school has agreements with several towns, allowing students to attend Thetford Academy as their public high school, and also attracts international students from countries like China, South Korea, Greece, and Rwanda.
Notable Alumni
Thetford Academy has a long history of producing influential individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields. Notable alumni include U.S. Senators, educators, artists, military leaders, and public servants such as William E. Chandler, a U.S. Senator and Secretary of the Navy, Ruth Dwyer, a Vermont House Representative, and Charles Edward Hovey, the first president of Illinois State University. The academy’s rich history and its alumni’s achievements reflect the enduring quality of education it provides.
Thetford Academy is more than just a school; it is a historic institution that has shaped the lives of students for over two centuries. With a strong focus on academics, extracurricular activities, and student well-being, Thetford Academy continues to uphold its legacy as a leading educational institution in Vermont. Through its inclusive programs, scenic campus, and vibrant community, Thetford Academy provides students with a unique and enriching educational experience.
