TA News

Dear TA Families,

I am excited to reach out to you on this first Friday of the school year and begin my routine of sharing a weekly message with the school community. It has been a busy first few days, and everyone might be a bit weary (kids and adults alike!) – but I’m pleased to report that it has been an overall smooth and joyful start to the year. 

The 7th and 9th graders had the campus to themselves on Tuesday, which was a helpful ‘soft launch’ for our students starting middle school and high school. Wednesday was the big, official start to the school year, with all students returning. One of many Thetford Academy traditions to foster our sense of community is to have a welcome back assembly on the first day. The theme I emphasized in my opening remarks was how the TA mission and values connect as a school.

We are a big diverse group of almost 400 people (students and educators), coming from all throughout the Upper Valley, spanning grades 7 through 12, with many different interests and experiences – but we all come here each day to learn together and be a part of the TA community.

Upcoming Dates:

• School Picture Day is Friday, September 5.
• Welcome Dance is Friday, September 5. Hosted by the senior class, this event is open to all grades, 7-12.
• We welcome parents and guardians to campus for Back to School Night on Thursday, September 11 from 5:45-7:30pm. This will be a good opportunity to meet teachers, visit classrooms, and learn more about the curriculum.
• There is a half day on Friday, September 12, with school in session from 8:10am-12:10pm.

I hope each student’s experience was an overall positive one this week. As you connect with your student over the weekend about the first days of the year, please ask them if there is anything that they need guidance with. A student’s advisor is a go-to resource and a good first person for students to connect with to help them navigate their TA experience. Of course, teachers are always available for support too. We have many other resources as well, and families will receive regular updates throughout the year from our school nurse, dean of students, athletic director, counselors, and more – and all of us are here to help! 

In honor of Labor Day on Monday, I want to close by shining the spotlight on the educators and support staff at TA for their important work. We are grateful for their labor, expertise, and commitment to our students and the school community.

Enjoy the holiday weekend. We look forward to seeing everyone back on Tuesday as we head into Week Two!

Carrie Brennan, Head of School