Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Thetford Academy Just another WordPress site ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://thetfordacademy.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Good Gravy! Bluegrass this Sunday at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/good-gravy-bluegrass-this-sunday-at-ta/) - This Sunday, from 6-8pm (weather-depending), Thetford Academy is excited to present Good Gravy, the first event in TA's new “Schoolhouse Rocks" concert series. Good Gravy, a bluegrass band hailing from Burlington, VT features the trio Joe Agnello, Jeff Wilson, and Jack Vignone. The band pays homage to bluegrass legends such as Tony Rice, Norman Blake, - [Thetford Arthouse Cinema to Launch Summer Season at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/thetford-arthouse-cinema-to-launch-summer-season-at-ta/) - The Thetford Arthouse Cinema is gearing up for another summer series of arthouse and repertory films. Starting on July 18, TAC is back with a Tuesdays and Fridays schedule in the Martha Jane Rich Theater at TA. The summer lineup includes films that will thrill, entertain, and inform, from directors like Hitchcock, Campion, and Coppola. - [What Are You Reading? TA Educators Share Their Summer Reading Picks](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/what-are-you-reading-ta-educators-share-their-summer-reading-picks/) - Summer is a great time to catch up on your reading and Thetford Academy's educators are sharing their picks! From memoirs and fiction to social justice, equity, and antiracism in the classroom, the natural world to the technological one, TA's "to-read" list has something for everyone. Check out what we're reading and hear from faculty - [Celebrating the Milestone of Juneteenth](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/celebrating-the-milestone-of-juneteenth/) - Thetford Academy celebrates and acknowledges Juneteenth as an important milestone in our nation's history. On this day, we commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and recognize the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality in our society. As an educational institution committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, we believe it is essential - [Champions! Panthers Take Division III State Title](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/champions-panthers-take-division-iii-state-title/) - Thetford Academy's Panthers defeated White River Valley 6-0 on Saturday to win the Division III State Championship in baseball for the first time since 1986 - and only the second time in the team's history. White River Valley's Wildcats, however, had earned three titles in a row - Division III in 2019 and Division IV - [TA Presents Summer Concert Series "Schoolhouse Rocks"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/ta-presents-summer-concert-series-schoolhouse-rocks/) - Thetford Academy is excited to present its first-ever summer concert series, "Schoolhouse Rocks." Join TA this summer for music, fun, and food trucks! The line-up begins on Sunday, June 25 at 6pm, with the bluegrass band Good Gravy. The Burlington, VT trio (Joe Agnello, Jeff Wilson, and Jack Vignone) pay homage to bluegrass legends such - [Congratulations, Class of 2023! TA Celebrates 204th Graduation](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/congratulations-class-of-2023/) - Congratulations to the 42 members of the Class of 2023! Thetford Academy's 204th graduation ceremony on June 9, held in the Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium, marked the end of high school for TA's seniors and the beginning of new adventures and opportunities. The weather and the move indoors did not dampen spirits as family, friends, and - [Head of School Weekly Email: Year-End Wrap Up](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/head-of-school-weekly-email-year-end-wrap-up/) - Dear TA Families, The 2022-2023 school year has come to a close, and what a finale it was! Congratulations to the Class of 2023, who celebrated their graduation on Friday evening. The ceremony was held in the Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium due to the weather, and the skies cleared in time for an outside reception afterwards. Thank - [New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/08/new-student-welcome-and-back-to-school-picnic-3/) - Thetford Academy is looking forward to hosting students and families for two community events on Sunday, August 23: a new student welcome and TA’s annual back to school picnic. Beginning at 4:00 p.m., TA invites all new, incoming students to campus for a fun opportunity to get ready for the first day of school. New - [Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/08/exciting-campus-news-community-info-sessions/) - Thetford Academy is taking an exciting leap forward with the construction of a Commons – a building that will fulfill the school's long-standing need for a kitchen and cafeteria, be a vibrant student center, and provide a welcoming hub for school and community events. Construction is scheduled to begin this fall. We invite you to - [Board of Trustees Adds Student Representation, Elects New Chair](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/board-of-trustees-adds-student-representation-elects-new-chair/) - The Thetford Academy Board of Trustees plays an important governance leadership role by setting policy, providing strategic direction, and ensuring accountability to the Academy’s mission. The group is made up of up to 21 community volunteers who bring a variety of areas of professional expertise and TA stakeholder representation to the table. The newest cohort - [Thetford's Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/08/thetfords-own-barn-band-at-ta-this-weekend/) - Get ready to rock with Thetford's own Barn Band this weekend! The Barn Band plays at Thetford Academy this Saturday, August 8th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m, and features five local musicians you just might know from the neighborhood. Steve Glazer, Cliff Darrow, Maureen Burford, Tom Caruso, and Alex Jaccaci perform rock, soul, funk, - [New Heating Source: Converting from Oil to Propane](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/07/new-heating-source-converting-from-oil-to-propane/) - There’s been a lot of heavy equipment on campus in recent days - and curiosity to go along with the big machine presence. The summertime project underway is a conversion from oil to propane as our primary heating fuel. On Monday crews from Calkins Excavating dug up the oil storage tank that was originally installed - [A New Digital Address for Thetford Academy](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/07/a-new-digital-address-for-thetford-academy/) - Dear Thetford Academy Community, If you’ve noticed a slight change in our email addresses recently, you’re not imagining things! We are officially transitioning our primary online home from thet.net to thetfordacademy.org. A little fun local tech history: long before my time in the IT office—back in the heyday of Blitzmail servers across Dartmouth and the - [Upper Valley Speech & Debate Camp Returns for Year Two](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/07/upper-valley-speech-debate-camp-returns-for-year-two/) - Thetford Academy and Hanover High School will host the second annual Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp (UVSDC) from August 10-14, 2026, on TA's campus. The half-day program welcomes students entering grades 7 through 10, with a curriculum built to challenge debaters at every level of experience. Over the course of the week, campers will - [Getting to Y Wraps Another Year of Making a Difference at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/07/getting-to-y-wraps-another-year-of-making-a-difference-at-ta/) - Getting to Y (GTY), a collaboration between UP for Learning, the Vermont Agency of Education, and the Vermont Department of Health, is a program that empowers students to effect sustainable change in their own school communities. At Thetford Academy, GTY just wrapped up its sixth year as a student club and another school year making - [Summer Adventures Abound with the Thetford Outdoor Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/07/summer-adventures-abound-with-the-thetford-outdoor-program/) - An adventure is an exciting, fun, and often brave journey - a challenge to try something new. In the TOP Summer Leadership Program, every trip is designed to be adventure. These multi-day programs push students out of their comfort zones, teach critical outdoor and survival skills, and foster student leadership and collaboration. TOP Summer Leadership - [Daniel Mann and Elijah Renner Named Semifinalists in U.S. Presidential Scholars Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/daniel-mann-and-elijah-renner-named-semifinalists-in-u-s-presidential-scholars-program/) - Thetford Academy seniors Daniel Mann and Elijah Renner have been named semifinalists in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s most selective honors for high school students. From more than 6,500 of the nation’s highest-achieving students invited into the selection process, just 627 advanced to the semifinalist stage. Only seven students statewide - [Celebrating a Century of Service: 5 Veteran Teachers Retire](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/celebrating-a-century-of-service-5-veteran-teachers-retire/) - A crew of beloved veteran teachers retired from Thetford Academy at the end of the school year. Together, these five educators dedicated the equivalent of over a century of service to students at Thetford Academy and other schools in their careers. Listed in order of their years of service at TA, the retirees include: Jennifer - [Head of School Weekly Email: We Did It!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/07/head-of-school-weekly-email-we-did-it/) - Dear TA Families, Wow, what a finale to the 2025-26 school year! It's been a high-energy month at Thetford Academy - and the activity and achievements didn't stop with the school year's official end. Here are some highlights from June and invitations for summertime opportunities. Congratulations, Seniors! The Class of 2026 had a proper TA - [We Did It! Crossing the Finish Line Together](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/we-did-it-crossing-the-finish-line-together/) - We crossed the finish line! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, Thetford Academy got a PR on this Day of Giving. 109 donors joined in and helped us complete our our virtual race around the Dan Grossman Woods Trail. Because of you, we've officially unlocked the $25,000 challenge gift from the Jack and - [SAVE THE DATE: Schoolhouse Rocks Summer Concerts](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/save-the-date-schoolhouse-rocks-summer-concerts/) - Join TA this summer for music, fun, and food! Thetford Academy is excited to share this year's dates for the “Schoolhouse Rocks" summer concert series. These free music events on campus kick off Sunday, July 12 at 6:00 p.m. with the return of Vermont-based guitarist and vocalist Zach Nugent and longtime collaborator Josh Weinstein. Food - [Senior Daniel Mann Selected to Represent Vermont in the United States Senate Youth Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/senior-daniel-mann-selected-to-represent-vermont-in-the-united-states-senate-youth-program/) - Thetford Academy senior Daniel Mann was recently selected as a delegate to the United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) and will represent Vermont alongside Senators Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch during the 64th annual USSYP Washington Week in March. His selection includes a $12,500 scholarship and national recognition for academic excellence and exceptional civic leadership. - [TA Performing Arts Represents VT on the National Stage](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/ta-performing-arts-represents-vt-on-the-national-stage/) - The Thetford Academy Performing Arts Department proudly represented Vermont on the national stage at this year's International Thespian Festival, held June 21–26 at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. Recognized as the premier theatre event for high school students in the United States, the festival brought together thousands of theatre students from across the country. Three - [Spring News from Thetford Academy's School Garden](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/spring-news-from-thetford-academys-school-garden/) - This growing season started in May with a burst of energy and enthusiasm. Twelve students and five adults volunteered in the garden during Thetford Academy's annual Operation Day's Work. The team spread a mountain of finished school compost, shaped raised beds, mulched pathways, watered onions with stinky fish fertilizer, planted sunflowers, and more. It was - [With the Closing of a Chapter, the Class of 2026 Celebrates New Beginnings](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/with-the-closing-of-a-chapter-the-class-of-2026-celebrates-new-beginnings/) - Thetford Academy was proud to celebrate the achievements of the exceptional Class of 2026 at the school’s 207th commencement on Friday. With soaring temperatures and the threat of thunder, the ceremony was held in the Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium. It was standing room only, with families and friends of the graduates filling the spacious gym with - [Undefeated Panthers Shut Out Bellows Falls 8-0 for Second Consecutive State Title](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/undefeated-panthers-shut-out-bellows-falls-8-0-for-second-consecutive-state-title/) - The Panthers ended their undefeated 2025-2026 season with another big win at Centennial Field in Burlington on Saturday, shutting out Bellows Falls 8-0 to earn their second consecutive D3 State Champion title - their third in four years. In the Valley News, Coach Kris Keelty talked about the team's season - 15 wins with an - [Track and Field Athletes Compete at New Englands, Sebastian Perdrizet Champion in Triple Jump](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/track-and-field-athletes-compete-at-new-englands-sebastian-perdrizet-champion-in-triple-jump/) - Several athletes from Thetford Academy's track and field team traveled to Berwick, Maine on Saturday for the New England Track & Field Charmpionship. Julia Bonnett, Londyn Oshoniyi, Ollie Emery, Matthew McGovern, Zac Amber, Jay Hill, Connor Sloop, Emmett Terry, and Sebastian Perdrizet competed against the best high school track and field athletes from across New - [Wynona Ward '69 Selected for Inaugural Alumni Achievement Award](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/thetford-academy-selects-wynona-ward-69-as-recipient-of-inaugural-alumni-achievement-award/) - Thetford Academy has selected Wynona I. Ward, Esq., Class of 1969, as the recipient of its inaugural Alumni Achievement Award. The Award recognizes a member of the alumni community who has demonstrated exceptional professional success, leadership, community service, and/or commitment to the Academy’s values of excellence, commitment, cooperation, caring and diversity. Wynona Ward is the - [Celebrating the Class of 2026 – Graduation Week](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/celebrating-the-class-of-2026-graduation-week/) - Thetford Academy’s Class of 2026 is winding down their high school career with a series of milestones and celebrations – baccalaureate, final exams, class day - all leading up to graduation Friday evening. Sunday's baccalaureate ceremony included a welcome speech by Class President Grace Brown and poetry readings by Henley Cook and Tommy Amber, and - [Track and Field Teams Compete at States, Boys Earn 2nd, Girls 7th](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/track-and-field-teams-compete-at-states-boys-earn-2nd-girls-7th/) - The track and field team competed at the Division 3 state meet in Burlington on June 4. Out of a field of 20 teams, the girls finished in 7th place and the boys finished in 2nd. Here are a few highlights: The girls 4x100 of Lacey Parkman, Lizzie Brown, Aislin Peters, and Lily Miller ran the - [Head of School Weekly Email: Culminations & Kudos](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/head-of-school-weekly-email-culminations-kudos/) - Dear TA Families, It's an intense time of the year as we gear up for the 'final' everything. Students are putting all of their skills, practice, and polish to work as they present, construct, and perform culminating projects, gear up for exams, and compete in playoffs. Kudos are in order for so many students, teachers, - [Celebrate the Arts at TA This Friday!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/celebrate-the-arts-at-ta/) - Thetford Academy’s student artists – musicians, performers, painters, designers, chefs, and more – will come together on Friday night to showcase their work to the community and celebrate the arts at TA. The event takes place in Anderson Hall with the cafe transformed into a gallery. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. and guests are invited - [Panthers Head Into Spring Season Playoffs](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/06/panthers-head-into-spring-season-playoffs/) - Photo credit: J&R Photography TA's varsity baseball team has had a stellar season, finishing 13-0 and the top seed in Division III. Their record earns them a first round bye in the D3 playoffs, skipping the playdowns to enter quarterfinals this week. The Panthers will host the winner of (8) Peoples Academy and (9) Green - [Head of School Weekly Email: Exploring the World Around Us](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-exploring-the-world-around-us/) - Dear TA Families, May has been a busy month of excursions into the world around us to extend our learning and build community. A few of the recent trips include: Sarah Hancock's creative writing class headed to Northern Stage to see a performance of the acclaimed 'Wonder! A Woman Keeps a Secret'. Elizabeth Dowe's advanced - [Waits River Valley School Brings "Wizard of Oz" to TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/waits-river-valley-school-brings-wizard-of-oz-to-ta/) - Guest post from Waits River Valley School teacher Thomas Chapin '04 On Thursday, May 28 at 6 p.m., Waits River Valley School is bringing its production of The Wizard Of Oz to Thetford Academy. Students in grades 3-8 have been working hard for the past few months and are excited to perform at the Martha - [Thetford Academy Performing Arts Presents "The Rainbow Fish Musical"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/thetford-academy-drama-presents-the-rainbow-fish-musical/) - The One Act Play class at Thetford Academy is proud to present The Rainbow Fish Musical on Sunday, May 31 at 1:00 p.m. in the Martha Jane Rich Theater at Thetford Academy. The performance is free and open to all families and community members. Based on the beloved children’s book, The Rainbow Fish Musical tells the story of friendship, - [Head of School Weekly Email: Field Day Fun & Year-End Reminders](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-field-day-fun-year-end-reminders/) - Dear TA Families, We took a little time out of the school day this afternoon to play. Our annual springtime Field Day activities included something for everyone: chalk art, rock art, a bounce house, spikeball, volleyball, four square, and disc golf, to name a few. Of course, cotton candy is always a hit. Students were - [Cabaret Wows the Crowd! (and Link to Performance Photos)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/cabaret-wows-the-crowd-and-link-to-performance-photos/) - For those of us lucky enough to be in the audience at one of the four sold-out shows last weekend, the experience was deeply moving. Our student cast and crew, under the direction of TA's performing arts teacher, Jeff Seabaugh, created a stunning performance and navigated complex material with nuance, maturity, and compelling authenticity. Kudos - [Head of School Weekly Email: Parent Survey, 26-27 Calendar, Course Registration & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-parent-survey-26-27-calendar-course-registration-more/) - Dear TA Families, As is true so many Saturdays throughout the school year, we have students giving their all today, competing and performing in a variety of venues - on the track, on stage, and on the ball field. Best of luck to our high school track and field athletes, the cast and crew of - [THIS WEEKEND! Thetford Academy Performing Arts Presents Cabaret](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/thetford-academy-performing-arts-presents-cabaret-tickets-on-sale-soon/) - The Thetford Academy Performing Arts Department is proud to present the Tony Award-winning musical Cabaret, a bold and provocative production set in 1930s Berlin at the famed Kit Kat Club. Blending unforgettable music, dynamic choreography, and powerful storytelling, Cabaret explores themes of identity, resilience, and the societal shifts of a changing world. The show examines - [Ready, Set, Go! TA's Day of Giving is Coming Thursday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/ready-set-go-tas-day-of-giving-is-coming-thursday/) - Thetford Academy is warming up for our annual Day of Giving next Thursday, May 14 - stretching our legs, lacing up our shoes, and visualizing our goal! This year, we're "running" the Dan Grossman Woods Trail and every gift gets us closer to the finish line. TA's Day of Giving, like the Woods Trail Run, is - [Head of School Weekly Email: Serving the Community](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-serving-the-community/) - Dear TA Families, 'In service to our community' is the theme of the week. Parents modeled this each day by investing time and effort into making Teacher Appreciation Week a success. We thank you! Meanwhile, students jumped into action today with our annual ODW Service Day - and last Friday too, with advisories and classes - [Head of School Weekly Email: Teacher Appreciation Week & Other May News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-teacher-appreciation-week-other-may-news/) - Dear TA Families, Monday kicks off Teacher Appreciation Week! We are grateful for your partnership in celebrating all of the dedicated adults who work at Thetford Academy. Teacher Appreciation Week - Your Help RequestedProviding homemade lunches throughout the week (and breakfast on Friday) is a wonderful way to say thank you. Sharing food is sharing - [TA Awarded Local Food Incentive Baseline Grant](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/05/ta-awarded-local-food-incentive-baseline-grant/) - Serving locally sourced Vermont foods in the Panther Café is becoming more of a reality. In February 2026, Thetford Academy was awarded the Vermont AOE Child Nutrition Programs Local Food Incentive Baseline Grant in the amount of $4,518.54. This funding serves as a catalyst to expand efforts to purchase and incorporate more local foods into - [Next SQC Event: David Briggs on His Family's Thetford Roots](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/next-sqc-event-david-briggs-on-his-familys-thetford-roots/) - The community is invited to a presentation by David Briggs on Saturday, May 2 at the Thetford Center Community Association building (on Rte 113), with a potluck gathering at 5pm and the presentation scheduled for 7pm. David will share stories and reflections from both sides of his family tree from earliest settlers through the 20th - [Upper Valley Farm to School Gathering at TA and TES](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/upper-valley-farm-to-school-gathering-at-ta-and-tes/) - On May 9, 2026, Thetford Academy and Thetford Elementary School will host the annual Upper Valley Farm to School Gathering. This free event brings together PreK to Grade 12 educators, students, farmers, and community partners to show what Farm to School looks like in action, from gardens, to classrooms, to cafeterias. Whether you are just - [Head of School Weekly Email: Appreciations, Report Cards & 4th Quarter Dates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-appreciations-report-cards-4th-quarter-dates/) - Dear TA Families,Greetings on this lovely first day of spring break! I think I can speak for all of us at school, student and adult alike, in expressing appreciation for the pause in school routines. What a perfect week to enjoy the warmer days and ready ourselves for the final (7 weeks!) sprint to June - [Chorus Club Joins Statewide Concert Hosted by Bernie Sanders](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/chorus-club-joins-statewide-concert-hosted-by-bernie-sanders/) - The TA Chorus Club recently had the honor of participating in a statewide choral concert sponsored by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. Held on April 11 at Vermont State University Castleton, the event marked the eighth annual gathering of student singers from across Vermont to celebrate the arts and advocate for the continued importance of music - [STEM Club Takes on the Vermont State Science Olympiad, Places 3rd Overall](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/stem-club-takes-on-the-vermont-state-science-olympiad-places-3rd-overall/) - This Sunday, April 12th, a small group of Thetford Academy students participated in the Vermont State Science Olympiad. "Founded in 1984, Science Olympiad is the leading team STEM competition in the nation, providing standards-based challenges to 7,000 teams at 450 tournaments in all 50 states." The events range in type from core knowledge, to lab, to build events - [Head of School Weekly Email: Roundtable Day Reflections](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-roundtable-day-reflections/) - Dear TA Families, Today was our first of two TA Roundtable Days this spring. Roundtable Days are one of a handful of days throughout the school year when we pause our normal routines to make time for special schoolwide activities that build and celebrate community - in this case with a focus on reflection, growth, - [Robotics Team Hosts Scrimmage, Prepare for World Championship](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/robotics-team-hosts-scrimmage-prepare-for-world-championship/) - Thetford Academy’s robotics team hosted a two-day VEX Robotics scrimmage last weekend.. The most competitive middle school, high school, and university teams from across northern New England and Quebec were invited. The event provided a great opportunity for students to prepare for next week’s VEX World Championship in St. Louis, Missouri, by collaborating with and competing - [Head of School Weekly Email: Signs of Spring, Restoring Our Community & April Dates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-signs-of-spring-restoring-our-community-april-dates/) - Dear TA Families, Signs of spring were in the air this week, with daffodil shoots pushing up in warmer spots around campus, more students eating lunch outside, and a new season of sports getting underway. The greenhouse is brimming with seedlings, as the horticulture classes prepare for spring planting in the garden. At the same - [Thetford Academy Launches Alumni Achievement Award, Nominations Now Open](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/thetford-academy-launches-alumni-achievement-award-nominations-now-open/) - Thetford Academy's Board of Trustees has announced a new Alumni Achievement Award to recognize the important contributions the school's alumni have made - and continue to make - in their communities and the world. Founded in 1819, Thetford Academy is Vermont's oldest secondary school and has more than 2,500 living alumni. “For over 200 years, - [Thetford SQC to Host Free Film Screening of "1776"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/thetford-sqc-to-host-free-film-screening-of-1776-at-ta/) - The Thetford Semiquincentennial Committee (SQC) is excited to share its next event, a video screening of We the People Theatre’s musical 1776 on Saturday, April 11 at 7 p.m. in the Martha Jane Rich Theater at Thetford Academy. The screening is free and open to the public. 1776 was performed live in the spring of - [Head of School Weekly Email: Senior Roundtables, Dartmouth Events & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/26862/) - Dear TA Families, Shakespeare's famous line - 'All the world's a stage' - comes to mind this week, as students stepped into the limelight in a variety of venues to share their learning and creativity with community audiences. Senior Roundtables BeginAndy MacNeil '26 kicked off the spring season of seniors taking the stage to present - [Panthers Fall to Hazen in Semis, End Championship Bid](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/panthers-fall-to-hazen-in-semis-end-2026-championship-bid/) - On March 12, 2026, TA's varsity boys basketball team headed to the Barre Auditorium to take on a familiar rival - the Hazen Wildcats - in the Division III semifinal. The Panthers were making a run for their third consecutive state championship, having defeated Hazen the last two title games. The #6 seed Panthers handily - [Head of School Weekly Email: Quarter 3 Progress](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-quarter-3-progress/) - Quarter 3 ProgressWith the official start of spring this weekend, it's a good time to take stock of where we are in the academic calendar. There are two weeks remaining in the 3rd quarter, which wraps up on April 3. I encourage students and families to check in together about performance in classes and review - [NAMI NH to Host Free Suicide Prevention Training at Thetford Academy](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/nami-nh-suicide-prevention-training-at-thetford-academy/) - Thetford Academy will host the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) NH for the Connect Suicide Prevention Training on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 4 p.m. in the school library. The training, offered with support from ALL Together Coalition and the Greater Sullivan County Public Health Network, is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, - [TA Students Present Research, Earn Honors at VT STEM Fair](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/ta-students-present-research-earn-honors-at-vt-stem-fair/) - On Saturday, three Thetford Academy students showcased their research at the annual Vermont STEM Fair, hosted at Norwich University. The fair is "an inquiry-based poster presentation competition open to all middle and high school level students in the state of Vermont," and is judged by science and engineering professionals. Elijah Renner '26, who has competed - [Head of School Weekly Email: Spring Events & Summer on the Horizon](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-spring-events-summer-on-the-horizon/) - Dear TA Families,Spring is on its way! Here are 2 not-to-miss March events at Thetford Academy: The snow melted fast this week, the sap is flowing, and sugaring season is in full swing. We invite everyone to our annual Maple Community Day @ TA on Sunday, March 22. Come by anytime between 10am and 3pm to - [Save the Date - Maple Community Day at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/save-the-date-maple-community-day-at-ta/) - Save the date! Thetford Academy's Outdoor Program is looking forward to welcoming students, families, neighbors, and friends for a Maple Community Day on Sunday, March 22, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. In Vermont, sugaring is an integral part of our history and identity. It's also a unique educational opportunity for Thetford Academy students. TA's campus has - [Indoor Track Team Ends Season on High Note at New Englands](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/indoor-track-team-ends-season-on-high-note-at-new-englands/) - Thetford Academy's indoor track team ended its season on a spectacular note with a number of terrific performances at the New England High School Indoor Track Championship meet at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston on February 28th. The girls' 4 x 200m relay team (Lilian Miller '27, Lizzie Brown '27, Aislin Peters '27 and - [Students Head to Culinary Arts Nationals After Vermont ProStart Win](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/students-head-to-culinary-arts-nationals-after-vermont-prostart-win/) - Thetford Academy students Madison Balch and Lorelei St. Martin, both studying Culinary Arts at River Bend Career and Technical Center, recently earned top honors at the VT/NY ProStart Invitational. Hosted by the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, the event is an unique opportunity for culinary arts students to show off what they've - ["The History of Thetford and its Historians" with Martha Howard and Steve Niederhauser](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/the-history-of-thetford-and-its-historians-with-martha-howard-and-steve-niederhauser-march-15/) - Photo: Camp Hanoum guests arrive by train circa 1920 The Thetford Historical Society (THS) and the Thetford Semiquincentennial Committee (SQC) are excited to present "The History of Thetford and its Historians" this Sunday, March 15 at 3 p.m. in Thetford Academy's Martha Jane Rich Theater. In this engaging and informative talk, THS Director Martha Howard - [Head of School Weekly Email: Let It Shine!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-let-it-shine/) - Dear TA Families, There is so much talent at TA - and we've been taking it on the road a lot lately, traveling to destinations throughout Vermont and beyond to compete, perform, and shine! Seniors Madison Balch and Lorelei St. Martin competed in the VT/NY state culinary championships and won 1st place in management and - [February Reading Challenge: Reading Black Authors](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/february-reading-challenge-reading-black-authors/) - My colleague, English teacher Sarah Hancock, and I have been thinking about how we, as educators, can help our students and colleagues make space in our distracting world for reading. And so school break reading challenges have become a staple this year at TA. February is Black History Month, and we could think of no - [Save the Date: One Act Play "Pride and Prejudice" March 15](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/save-the-date-one-act-play-pride-and-prejudice-march-15/) - Step into the wit and romance of Pride and Prejudice by Melissa Leilani Larson, a lively one-act adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. This production is part of the Vermont State Drama Council’s One Act Festival. Presented by the Thetford Academy Performing Arts Department, this spirited production brings to life Elizabeth Bennet and the - [2026 Thetford Town & School Meetings Held at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/thetford-town-school-meetings-held-at-ta-saturday-2-28/) - Campus was bustling with activity on Saturday, Feb. 28 as Thetford’s 2026 Town Meeting took place in the Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium. The gym was packed with residents for the town business portion in the morning and a smaller crowd lingered for the annual school meeting in the afternoon. Two dozen town committees and nonprofit organizations - [Your Voice Matters: TA Mission Statement Survey](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/your-voice-matters-ta-mission-statement-survey/) - For the past six years, Thetford Academy's 2025 Strategic Plan has served our community well, providing a helpful framework for our work as educators. With the expiration of the plan, we are excited to come back to the table to develop a thoughtful vision for TA's future. Thetford Academy has convened a new Strategic Planning - [Girls Conclude Basketball Season, Boys Playoff Run Continues](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/girls-conclude-basketball-season-boys-playoff-run-continues/) - The girls’ varsity basketball team concluded their season (5-16) last Wednesday in the first-round playoff game against the #3 seeded Oxbow High School. The team fought hard throughout the game, narrowing the deficit to just five points with three minutes remaining. All of the players showed remarkable growth and improvement over the course of the - [Thetford Academy Artists Exhibit Work at AVA Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/03/thetford-academy-artists-exhibit-work-at-ava-gallery/) - Seven Thetford Academy artists have their work on display in the 18th annual AVA Gallery and Art Center High School Exhibition - an event TA has participated in for all 18 years! The show, featuring more than 100 works by emerging artists from 14 regional schools across the Upper Valley, opened on Friday, February 27 - [Middle School Basketball Teams Close Exciting Season](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/middle-school-basketball-teams-close-exciting-season/) - The smell of pizza wafted through campus last Wednesday evening as both the girls and boys middle school basketball teams celebrated the end of successful seasons. The girls started off in a challenging position when an injury left the team with just six active players. Of course, that didn't stop this group of hard-working, determined - [Head of School Weekly Email: Seeking Your Input & Your Action](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-seeking-your-input-your-action/) - Dear TA Families, As we head into February break, I invite you to help shape Thetford Academy's future by sharing your voice and perspective. Input Requested: Mission Statement Survey Thetford Academy convened a task force this year to guide the development of our next strategic plan. It is both daunting and inspiring to think big - [Thetford Academy Celebrates 83rd Annual Founders' Day (+ Photo Gallery)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/thetford-academy-celebrates-83rd-annual-founders-day-photo-gallery/) - On Friday, February 13, 2026, Thetford Academy celebrated its 207th birthday and its 83rd annual Founders’ Day. Former Head of School Carl Anderson started the Founders’ Day tradition in 1944, after a tragic fire destroyed the school’s original campus. With Founders’ Day, Anderson hoped to honor the school’s deep history, lift the spirits of its - [TA Robotics Team "Wiseguys" Win VT/NH VEX Championship](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/ta-robotics-team-wiseguys-win-vt-nh-vex-championship/) - This year, all seven of Thetford Academy's VEX Robotics teams (two middle school teams and five high school teams) qualified to compete in the VT/NH State Championships. The event, hosted by Manchester Community College in Manchester, NH, was full of exciting matches and some disappointing losses. At the end of the qualification matches, all TA - [Ranee Hall '28 Advances to VT Poetry Out Loud Finals](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/ranee-hall-28-earns-spot-in-vt-poetry-out-loud-finals/) - Thetford Academy recently hosted its 17th annual Poetry Out Loud (POL) recitation contest featuring poetry performances from nine talented TA students: Eleora Santor, Lucca Huling, Maddie Piecuch, Camren Murray, Anna Ferrier, Evelyn Hayden, Twyla Weinstein, Ranee Hall, and Jay Hill. Each student recited personally selected poems for the team of community judges, who evaluated students' physical presence, - [The Class of 2030 Builds Community at Hulbert Outdoor Center](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/the-class-of-2030-builds-community-at-hulbert-outdoor-center/) - Last week our 8th grade students traveled to the Hulbert Outdoor Center in Fairlee, Vermont for an overnight experience designed to do more than build memories. The trip placed students in situations of shared challenge, where learning happens through experience and reflection. These moments revealed the five habits we value in Kathy Hooke’s science classroom - [Head of School Weekly Email: Founders' Day Traditions Live On!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-founders-day-traditions-live-on/) - Dear TA Families, Yesterday we celebrated our 83rd Founders' Day as a school community. This is an energetic mid-winter event that Carl Anderson started to bring people together after the school burned down in 1942 - and it has been a treasured tradition ever since. Students in every grade demonstrated incredible creativity and productivity in - [Future Planning Ramping Up for TA Juniors and Seniors](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/future-planning-ramping-up-for-ta-juniors-and-seniors/) - The start of second semester is a significant time of transition for Thetford Academy’s juniors and seniors. With graduation just months away, seniors are busy evaluating post-secondary options, working on financial planning, and engaging in valuable work experiences outside of school. Juniors, too, are starting to think more deeply about their post graduation options, diving - [Alpine Ski Team Heads Into Postseason With Strong Roster](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/alpine-ski-team-heads-into-postseason-with-strong-roster/) - The Thetford Academy Ski Team has just completed its regular season and is heading into the postseason with a strong boys' roster. Following the graduation of nine talented seniors last year, a strong incoming freshman class and several returning underclassmen have stepped up to fill the gap. Our two seniors, Sophia Harvey and Elijah Renner, - [Head of School Weekly Email: Taking Risks](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-taking-risks/) - Dear TA Families,We jumped into February embracing lots of cool challenges and opportunities! I want to thank students for taking risks inside and outside the classroom as they push their learning, hone their skills, experience new places, connect and share with others, and represent their school. And I want to thank all of the adults - [Robotics Teams Prepare for States, Demonstrate Leadership at Conway Meet](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/robotics-teams-prepare-for-states-demonstrate-leadership-at-conway-meet/) - Last Saturday at 5:30 a.m. twenty of team 4886's roboteurs and their intrepid parents departed Thetford Academy for the 2+ hour trip to frigid Conway, NH. All seven of TA's robots had already qualified for "States," but there were some freshly-refurbished machines that needed to see a day of hard knocks to be fully prepared for the State - [Memory Project Connects Students Across the World](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/memory-project-connects-students-across-the-world/) - Students in Karyn Neubauer's fall Painting class recently learned that their artwork for the Memory Project, a nonprofit that aims to “create a kinder world through art,” was received by Armenian students. The organization's founder, Ben Schumaker, included a video of the deliveries with a message. "Most of the children are living in very rural - [Middle School Debaters Compete at New England Middle School Open in Lebanon](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/02/middle-school-debaters-compete-at-new-england-middle-school-open/) - What a day! Six schools and almost 40 students competed at the January 31st tournament in Lebanon, delightfully dubbed the New England Middle School Open. This tournament was designed to increase enthusiasm for debate among our younger students across Vermont and New Hampshire. Seventh graders Coral Riegler, Emelyn Leitao, Zachary Martin, and Noah Brown competed - [Head of School Weekly Email: Healthy Intentions, Student Portfolios & February Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-healthy-intentions-student-portfolios-february-events/) - January Reflections & IntentionsAs January draws to a close, it's a good time to pause and reflect on intentions we might have set for the new year and check whether we are on the path toward achieving them. Our Getting to Y team engaged their peers in doing just that last week and shared out - [The Ripple Effect: Work Based Learning at River Bend Career and Technical Center](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/the-ripple-effect-work-based-learning-at-river-bend-career-and-technical-center/) - Guest post from our partners at Riverbend Career and Technical Center, first published in the RBCTC January Newsletter Hands-On Experience Paves the Way for Student Success Aylhea LaBadie, a senior from Thetford Academy and a student in River Bend Career and Technical Center’s Heavy Equipment program, is gaining valuable real-world experience through her internship with - [Thetford Academy's 17th Annual Poetry Out Loud Recitation Contest Scheduled for Feb. 4](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/thetford-academys-17th-annual-poetry-out-loud-recitation-contest-scheduled-for-feb-4/) - On Thursday, Feb. 4, 2026 at 3:15 p.m. in the Martha Jane Rich Theater, Thetford Academy will host its 17th annual Poetry Out Loud recitation contest. Poetry Out Loud is “a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry,” and the recitation event has become a TA tradition. Poetry Out Loud not only exposes - [Registration Open for TOP Summer Leadership Adventures](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/registration-open-for-top-summer-leadership-adventures/) - TA's Thetford Outdoor Program is excited for another summer of immersive outdoor leadership adventures in 2026! Registration opened Monday, January 26, with a slate of exciting outdoor experiences, including multi-day backpacking and canoeing trips, as well as on-campus programs like trail crew and garden camp. TOP Summer Leadership programs are open to all TA students - [Head of School Weekly Email: 1st Semester Report Cards, 2nd Semester Launch](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-1st-semester-report-cards-2nd-semester-launch/) - Dear TA Families, New SemesterThere was lots of good energy on campus this week as we launched the new semester. New classes, new teachers, new routines! Change is exciting and inspiring, and can also be a bit intimidating. We hope your student had a smooth start. Please reach out - or encourage your student to do - [Head of School Weekly Email: Mid-January News & Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-mid-january-news-events/) - Dear TA Families, We are heading into a 4-day weekend as we pause between semesters and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday. We look forward to seeing everyone back at school on Tuesday, ready for the launch of the new term! If you are looking for things to do over - [Society for Science Recognizes Elijah Renner for Innovative STEM Research in Regeneron Science Talent Search](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/society-for-science-recognizes-elijah-renner-for-innovative-stem-research-in-regeneron-science-talent-search/) - Thetford Academy senior Elijah Renner recently received national recognition for his innovative STEM research by the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search. The annual Regeneron Science Talent Search, hosted by the nonprofit Society for Science, is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious high school science and math competition – once called the “Super Bowl of Science” - [Champions! Boys Indoor Track Team Takes Div. II Title for Second Consecutive Year](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/boys-indoor-track-team-takes-div-ii-title-for-second-consecutive-year/) - Propelled by a historic performance by junior Sebastian Perdrizet, and buoyed by a number of phenomenal individual and team performances, the Thetford Academy boys indoor track team pulled off a stunning upset to win the D-II Vermont High School Indoor Track and Field State Championships on Saturday by the narrowest of margins over heavily-favored U-32. - [Students Demonstrate Learning Through Culminating Projects and Experiences](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/students-demonstrate-learning-through-culminating-projects-and-experiences/) - At the end of every semester, you'll find students at Thetford Academy putting their learning to work, applying the the skills and ideas they've practiced in the classroom. Through culminating projects and experiences, teachers encourage students to not only demonstrate their mastery of course material, but also their creativity and collaborative skills. Below are some - [Head of School Weekly Email: Final Stretch of 1st Semester](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-final-stretch-of-1st-semester/) - Dear TA Families, Happy New Year from all of us at Thetford Academy! Our first week back has been a whirlwind of academic activity as students dove back into their classes and engaged in final projects and assessments during these final days of the quarter and semester. Check in with your student at home to - [TA to Host Jay Craven's "Lost Nation" Film in Partnership with Thetford's SQC (Semiquincentennial) Committee](https://thetfordacademy.org/2026/01/ta-to-host-jay-cravens-lost-nation-film-in-partnership-with-thetfords-sqc-semiquintencennial-committee/) - The Thetford Semiquincentennial (SQC) Committee and the Brian Boland Foundation will host a screening of Vermont filmmaker Jay Craven’s newest film, “Lost Nation" on Saturday, January 17 at 7 p.m. in Thetford Academy's Martha Jane Rich Theater. The film will be followed by a Q&A with the director himself. “Lost Nation” is a Revolutionary War-era - [Calling All Panthers! Alumni Basketball Saturday, Dec. 27](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/calling-all-panthers-alumni-basketball-saturday-dec-27-registration-now-open/) - Calling all Panthers! This year's alumni basketball game is scheduled for Saturday, December 27th at 1pm - following the varsity girls game v. Windsor - and we are excited. If you've ever dreamed of dusting off your sneakers and getting back on the court, now is your chance. As always, all alumni are invited, welcome, - [Head of School Weekly Email: Happy Holidays!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-happy-holidays/) - Dear TA Families, In keeping with last week's theme of headlines, I want to congratulate ... All of the students who sang and played in the middle school chorus, high school chorus, instrumental ensemble, and stage band performances at the Winter Concert on Wednesday - and their teachers Whit VanMeter and Jeff Seabaugh. A super joyful music-filled - [Studies at Dartmouth Give Students a Sense of Independence and College Experience](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/through-the-community-high-school-program-ta-students-study-at-dartmouth/) - This fall, seven Thetford Academy students, in addition to their regular studies at TA, completed a course at Dartmouth College. These students took advantage of Dartmouth’s Community High School Program (CHSP), a unique opportunity for local juniors and seniors to take Dartmouth courses while still in high school - tuition free and for college credit. As - [Thetford Academy Performing Arts Winter Concert (Date Change: Dec. 17)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/thetford-academy-performing-arts-winter-concert-dec-10/) - Celebrate the season with Thetford Academy at our annual Winter Concert, a fun and funky showcase of our students' instrumental and choral talent. This Wednesday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m., the middle school chorus, high school chorus, instrumental classes, and the Thetford Academy Stage Band will come together in the Martha Jane Rich Theater to - [Head of School Weekly Email: December News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-december-news-including-winter-concert/) - Dear TA Families, I hope that everyone had a good Thanksgiving holiday. With Tuesday's snowfall, Thursday's dramatic drop in temps, our first snow day of the year, and the launch of winter sports practices, this week definitely ushered in the start of a new season! Quarter 2 & Academic ProgressThis week we also passed the halfway - [Head of School Weekly Email: Making Headlines](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-making-headlines/) - Dear TA Families, We like to celebrate when our students are recognized for outstanding achievements and leadership. A handful of Thetford Academy high schoolers made headlines recently - and many students were recognized for their outstanding academic performance during the first quarter of the school year. Students Making Headlines → Ollie Emery '27 is heading - [Putting the Garden to Bed, A Reflection on Growing Season](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/putting-the-garden-to-bed-a-reflection-on-growing-season/) - Once the snow falls, the physical work of the garden ends. I smile and sigh a breath of relief, knowing that the garden is tucked-in for its much deserved winter rest. As the Thetford Academy Garden Coordinator, I am continuously aware that it’s not “my” garden, but rather “everyone’s” garden. During the long, warm and - [#GivingTuesday: Join Our Learning Community with Your Gift Today](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/givingtuesday-join-our-learning-community-with-your-gift-today/) - Today is Giving Tuesday, an annual celebration of philanthropy across the country and the world. At Thetford Academy, we're kicking off this giving season with an invitation to join us in our mission to celebrate the unique worth of all students, to nurture their strengths, and to challenge them to fulfill their potential. At the - [Our Community Gives Thanks, a Photo Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/12/our-community-gives-thanks-a-photo-gallery/) - One of Thetford Academy's newer traditions is our annual Thanksgiving luncheon, an all-school gathering before the holiday. This year, we were joined by trustees past and present, alumni, neighbors, and friends who helped us serve our students and teachers and joined us in breaking bread. This tradition is a favorite at TA, not just for - [After Five Rousing Performances, "Puffs" Cast and Crew Takes a Bow](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/after-five-rousing-performances-puffs-cast-and-crew-takes-a-bow/) - This weekend, the Thetford Academy Drama department wowed audiences with five rousing performances of the fall play "Puffs: Or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic." The play, a parody of the Harry Potter series following "the other" students at a wizarding academy, is a joy-filled romp about making it - [Head of School Weekly Email: Craft Fair & Puffs This Weekend](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-craft-fair-puffs-this-weekend/) - Dear TA Families, Our campus will be bustling with activity this weekend. Come be a part of the fun! Two featured events: Four performances of 'Puffs', Friday-Sunday - more details here TA Alumni Association's annual craft fair, Saturday - more details here I'm always amazed at how much is happening around here in the evenings and on - [TA Represents at Statewide Student Leadership Conference](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/ta-represents-at-statewide-student-leadership-conference/) - A team of five Thetford Academy student-athletes attended the VPA Student Leadership Conference in Burlington on November 10-11. Also in attendance were TA’s Athletic Director Bri Barnes, who was one of the organizers, and Coach AJ Darling. On Monday the students attended peer-led workshops about student support and recognition, student engagement, and mental health, and - [39th Annual TAAA Craft Bazaar this Saturday, Nov. 22](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/39th-annual-taaa-craft-bazaar-this-saturday-nov-22/) - Join the Thetford Academy Alumni Association for its 39th Annual Holiday Craft Bazaar this Saturday! With over 60 crafters scheduled, there is sure to be something for everyone on your holiday shopping list: hand crafted jewelry, artisanal soap, wood crafts, baked treats, ornaments, sewn goods, and more. Buy your raffle tickets at the door for - [Why Debate Matters: A Coach's Reflection](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/why-debate-matters-a-coachs-reflection/) - I’ll be honest: I didn’t start a debate team at TA because I loved debate. I used to think debate was a competition where winning mattered more than reaching thoughtful conclusions, and rewarded people who could think quickly, not deeply. I worried that students would learn clever tricks to win rounds rather than how to - [Head of School Weekly Email: Taking the Stage](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-taking-the-stage/) - Dear TA Families, The Martha Jane Rich Theater is an amazing resource for our school. We use it in lots of ways and love getting students into the theater for a variety of meetings, experiences, and classes. We especially love getting students out of the audience seats and onto the stage! Fall Play Coming up - [Social Studies Department Hosts Writing Forum Featuring Alumni Speakers](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/social-studies-department-hosts-writing-forum/) - Thetford Academy's Social Studies department recently hosted a Writing Forum focused on real-world applications for writing and the importance of effective written communication in everyday life. The event's four alumni panelists, Nathaniel Cook '06, Nathan Hill '02, Erika Hoffman-Kiess '86, and Lucy Wagner '03, work in different fields, but all agreed that their professional success - [Tickets on Sale Now! Don't Miss TA Drama's Presentation of "Puffs"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/tickets-on-sale-soon-save-the-date-for-ta-dramas-presentation-of-puffs/) - Thetford Academy’s Performing Arts Department proudly announces its fall theater production of Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic, a fast-paced, funny, and heartwarming reimagining of a familiar magical story—from the perspective of the loyal and often overlooked students known as the Puffs. Written by Matt Cox, Puffs - [Thrills and Skills: Thetford Academy Robotics Shines at Haunted Harvest Tournament](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/thrills-and-skills-thetford-academy-robotics-shines-at-haunted-harvest-tournament/) - The air at Thetford Academy was electric with the sounds of whirring motors this past weekend as the school hosted its second annual Haunted Harvest Vex Robotics Tournament. The event saw teams from across the region gather for a day of intense competition, but it was the home teams that truly stole the show. Thetford - [TAAA Alumni Newsletter: Alumni Craft Bazaar, Memory Tree and More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/taaa-alumni-newsletter-alumni-craft-bazaar-memory-tree-and-more/) - The Thetford Academy Alumni Association recently published their fall newsletter, sharing alumni news and events. Coming right up on November 22, TAAA will host the annual Holiday Craft Bazaar in the Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium. Donations are still needed for the Alumni Craft Table, a great place to share your crafts, handiwork, or baked goods and - [TA Celebrates Community Connections: First Stop, Chelsea, VT](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/ta-celebrates-community-connections-first-stop-chelsea-vt/) - This Sunday, November 16 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chelsea Town Hall in Chelsea, VT, Thetford Academy will make the first stop in its Community Connections series. Sunday's event, hosted by Head of School Carrie Brennan and former Chelsea School educator David Kelman, is a celebration of the strong ties between our - [Head of School Weekly Email: Act 73, Report Cards, Robotics & Other Nov. News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-act-73-report-cards-robotics-other-nov-news/) - Dear TA Families, Quarter 1 Report CardReport cards were sent via email on Friday afternoon (Nov. 7) through our student information system, Alma. They are distributed automatically to the parent/guardian email addresses we have on file. Additionally, the report card is now available in each student's profile on Alma. Log in, click on your student, - [Boys Earn Second in Cross Country State Championships, Girls Finish Fourth](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/boys-earn-second-in-cross-country-state-championships-girls-finish-fourth/) - The Panther boys had a great day at the Vermont Cross Country State Championship meet on October 25, finishing second among 11 teams in Division III. The team was down a key scorer due to illness, said Coach Joe Deffner, and the remaining runners "really picked it up and had an amazing race." In an - [Student Leaders Attend Dartmouth's 2025 UN Global Symposium on Youth Well-Being](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/student-leaders-attend-dartmouths-2025-un-global-symposium-on-youth-well-being/) - A reflection by Mavis Downey '26 On Monday, October 27th, a group of student leaders from Thetford Academy attended Dartmouth’s 2025 UN Global Symposium on Youth Well-Being. The event brought together leading mental health experts, policymakers, and youth leaders to examine one of the most pressing issues of our time: the youth mental health crisis. - [Fifteen TA Students Inducted into International Thespian Society](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/11/fifteen-ta-students-inducted-into-international-thespian-society/) - "I promise to uphold the aims and ideals of the International Thespian Society. I am a student of theatre and excellence is my ideal. I promise to perform my part as well as I can; to accept praise and criticism with grace; to cooperate with my fellow Thespians and work for the good of the - [Head of School Weekly Email: Happy Halloween!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-happy-halloween/) - Dear TA Families, What a day! What a week! It has been a busy, busy time here at TA with a mix of serious and fun these last days of October, including lots of costumes (and jack-o-lanterns) on campus today! I can't capture it all, but here are some of the highlights of today and this - [String Theory Headed to VEX World Championships, Haunted Harvest Meet at Thetford Academy This Weekend](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/string-theory-headed-to-vex-world-championships-haunted-harvest-meet-at-thetford-academy-this-weekend/) - Thetford Academy robotics team 4886S, String Theory, is going to Worlds! Senior Connor Kutter-Walker and junior Duncan MacPhee won the Lobstah Bowl VEX VR5 Signature Event in Bangor, Maine, two weeks ago. Competing as the only team from the NH/VT league, they faced 60 teams from across the US and Canada - including California, Tennessee, - [Panther Boys Clinch Quarterfinal Win, Host Winooski in Semis on Wednesday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/panther-boys-clinch-quarterfinal-host-winooski-in-semis-on-wednesday/) - Calling all Panthers! This Wednesday at 3:00 p.m., Thetford Academy’s varsity #6 seeded boys soccer team will host #10 Winooski in a semifinal matchup. The Panthers quarterfinal win v. Vergennes last Friday was a thriller, with the two teams tied up 2-2 after 90 minutes of regular play - with no movement in overtime or - [Middle School Cross Country Crosses the Finish Line with Strong Performances at States](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/middle-school-cross-country-crosses-the-finish-line-with-strong-performances-at-states/) - A young and enthusiastic middle school cross-country team had a terrific season, culminating with some stalwart performances at the middle school state championship meet in St. Albans on Sunday, October 26th. Emelyn Leitao '31 was the top finisher among the girls, setting a new school record on that course, finishing in 13:02, and earning a - [Head of School Weekly Email: Bringing the World to Us & Q1 Finale](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-bringing-the-world-to-us-q1-finale/) - Dear TA Families, Quarter Comes to a CloseFirst, I want to emphasize this pivotal time in the academic calendar. The upcoming week is the finale to the first quarter of the school year. For high school students, this is especially important to note. With our semester-block schedule at the high school level, classes meet intensively for - [Head of School Weekly Email: Learning in the Field, Fall Athletics & October Updates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-learning-in-the-field-fall-athletics-october-updates/) - Dear TA Families, One important way to deepen and extend our learning is to head off campus on occasion. Students have been on some really cool field trips in recent weeks. Their content and activities might vary widely, but the trips share common goals: to make connections between community and classroom, to apply new skills and - [Stacy Barton Recognized with Outstanding Educator Award](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/stacy-barton-recognized-with-outstanding-educator-award/) - Each fall the UVM College of Education and the Vermont Agency of Education team up to honor and celebrate outstanding educators throughout the state who have been nominated by their schools and supervisory unions. Congratulations to Stacy Barton, Thetford Academy’s pick for the 2025 Vermont Outstanding Educator Award! Stacy has been teaching middle school and - [TA Educators Team Up with Dartmouth Students for Design Thinking](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/ta-educators-team-up-with-dartmouth-students-for-design-thinking/) - This fall, Thetford Academy teachers are partnering with Dartmouth College students in a Design Thinking course to explore an important question: How might we better understand and incorporate student and family perspectives in our school’s continued transition to proficiency-based grading? TA’s Design Thinking Team includes colleague coach Becky DiFrancesco, English teacher and Teaching and Learning - [Head of School Weekly Email: Garden Activities, Woods Trail & TA Advocacy](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-garden-activities-woods-trail-ta-advocacy/) - Dear TA Families, Garden Fun (and Work and Learning)!This week we officially shifted into fall with the autumnal equinox, and it seems like a fitting moment to feature the bounty of our school garden, which is bursting with vegetables and flowers and has seen a bustle of activity during the first month of school. The - [A Few Ways to Support TA - Volunteer Opportunities This Weekend](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/a-few-ways-to-support-ta-volunteer-opportunities-this-weekend/) - This Saturday, Thetford Academy will host Vermont's Cross Country State Championship, with teams from all across the state competing on the Dan Grossman Woods Trail for a title. Volunteers are still needed to support the event and all community members are invited to join the fun. For more information about volunteer opportunities at the meet, - [Save the Date (and spread the word)! Fall Admissions Open House Oct 19](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/save-the-date-and-spread-the-word-fall-admissions-open-house-oct-19/) - Save the date and spread the word, Thetford Academy's Admissions Open House is coming right up! On Sunday, October 19th at 2:00 p.m., TA is excited to host prospective students and families and share what makes our school community so special. Thetford Academy's Admissions Open House is geared toward all students entering grades 7-12 who - [Head of School Weekly Email: October Appreciations & Invitations](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-october-appreciations-invitations/) - Dear TA Families, Three Appreciations to Spotlight: As the fall season shifts into its final stretch, I want to share my appreciation for all of the coaches working with our panther athletes. For many students, athletics are an important extension of the daily school experience. Over 36% of TA students are participating on a team this fall. Coaches - [34th Annual Woods Trail Run, Competition and Community](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/34th-annual-woods-trail-run-a-competition-that-builds-community/) - On Saturday, Thetford Academy once again welcomed thousands of runners and spectators from across New England for the Woods Trail Run, the school’s iconic annual cross country event. This year, the meet drew more than 2000 runners from six states and 90 different schools, with representation from all of New England and New York. The - [Head of School Weekly Email: Care, Commitment, Community](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-care-commitment-community/) - Dear TA Families, Here are a few of the many ways that the values of care, commitment, and community were on display this week at Thetford Academy ... 'Getting to Y' Leads the WayThe Getting to Y team has wasted no time in engaging the school community this fall in activities around teen well-being and mental health. - [Shoutout to Senior Standouts: 2026 Green & Gold and National Merit Semifinalists](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/shoutout-to-senior-standouts-2026-green-gold-and-national-merit-semifinalists/) - Every year, the University of Vermont announces the recipients of its prestigious Green and Gold Scholarship, awarded to the most academically talented rising high school senior in every Vermont secondary school. This year, Thetford Academy is proud to share that our 2026 Green and Gold awardee is Sam Parkman. Sam was selected from among the - [VEX Robotics Team Still Growing, Competition Season is Here](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/vex-robotics-team-still-growing-competition-season-is-here/) - Thetford Academy's VEX Robotics team membership has grown exponentially in the last few years, with TA's team "4886" reaching an all-time high this season with 25 members. There's a chance that number will grow, too, when the fall sports season comes to an end next month. "It's pure pandemonium in the robot shack after school," - [TA to Host 34th Annual Woods Trail Run on Saturday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/ta-to-host-34th-annual-woods-trail-run/) - Photo credit: Dan Grossman, Maple Leaf Photos Thetford Academy will host the 34th annual Woods Trail Run this Saturday, October 4, 2025. Now in its 34th year, the Woods Trail Run is TA's largest event, featuring the best runners from schools across Vermont, New England, and New York. This year, more than 2000 runners are - [TA Promotes Awareness and Advocacy in Act 73 Redistricting Process](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/ta-promotes-awareness-and-advocacy-in-act-73-redistricting-process/) - Earlier this year, Vermont's legislature signed education transformation bill H.454 into law as Act 73. The bill aims to create efficiencies and promote cost-savings for Vermont's education system through a variety of levers. The current focus of the transformational work ahead is being done by the state's Redistricting Task Force, which is meeting intensively this - [Mountain Day - Photo Gallery 2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/mountain-day-photo-gallery-2025/) - This past Friday, we celebrated our 47th annual TA Mountain Day with a fantastic day of hiking and connection. Each class set off on their own adventure, climbing the familiar peaks visible from the steps of the White Building. The weather was clear and perfect—ideal for taking in the stunning views and enjoying time outdoors. - [Head of School Weekly Email: Mountain Vistas & College on the Horizon](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-mountain-vistas-college-on-the-horizon/) - Dear TA Families, Mountain Day!Friday was a glorious day to carry on TA's Mountain Day tradition. Sunny skies made for beautiful views and good hiking conditions. Mountain Day is a mix of physical challenge, adventure, and camaraderie with classmates - and we hope everyone found the right balance, and ended the day with a sense of - [Student Spotlight: Elijah Renner '26 Explores AI Applications in Medicine](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/student-spotlight-elijah-renner-26-explores-ai-applications-in-medicine/) - If you asked Thetford Academy senior Elijah Renner how he spent his summer vacation, the answer might surprise you. As a student who thrives on academic challenge, summer for Elijah often means taking every opportunity to dive deeply into his areas of interest, especially the intersection of science and emerging technology. Here at TA, Elijah - [Head of School Weekly Email: Gratitude for the Good Energy](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-gratitude-for-the-good-energy/) - Dear TA Families, I am SO impressed with students' energy and engagement in the early weeks of the school year, and I want to encourage us all to support them in keeping up the good momentum. This is not just a honeymoon phase of the new year - this is who we are as a - [Head of School Weekly Email: Welcome Back!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/head-of-school-weekly-email-welcome-back/) - 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 - [New School Year Launches Tomorrow - August 27](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/new-school-year-launches-tomorrow-august-27/) - There is a cooler touch to the morning air and an earlier slant to the setting sun in the evenings. Indeed, autumn is arriving soon and back-to-school season is upon us. Thetford Academy officially launches the new school year on Wednesday, August 27. We are looking forward to seeing the campus buzzing again with the return - [Head of School Weekly Email: Back to School Night, Clubs & More!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-back-to-school-night-clubs-more/) - Dear TA Families, We have a few invitations for students and families as we move into week three of the school year. For Students: Clubs & Office Hours Begin on Sept. 10-11Starting next week, we will shift into our normal routines for Power Hour, the activity/lunch block in the middle of each day. In addition - [Fall Athletics Season in Full Swing - Go Panthers!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/fall-athletics-season-in-full-swing-go-panthers/) - Thetford Academy's fall athletics season is in full swing! On August 29, the boys varsity soccer team opened their season on a high note securing a 1-0 victory vs Randolph's Galloping Ghosts. Next up at home, the JV and varsity boys hosted People's Academy - JV came out strong, taking Peoples 4-2 win and the varsity - [College Representatives Bring Their Schools to TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/college-representatives-bring-their-schools-to-ta/) - Each fall, college representatives come to TA to talk with students and share an inside look at their school's academics, campus life, and application process. These visits are a great opportunity for students to make an initial in-person contact with a school, gauge their "fit" with the school's profile, and dive more deeply into the - [Do Good, Have Fun at the Woods Trail Run!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/do-good-have-fun-at-the-woods-trail-run/) - For many years, the Thetford Academy Alumni Association (TAAA) has provided concessions at TA's annual Woods Trail Run, providing delicious homemade food, fresh hot chocolate and coffee, baked goods, and more. If you've ever attended Woods Trail, you know this service is invaluable to the event's thousands of runners, volunteers, and spectators. TAAA does it - [New Staff Join Thetford Academy Team](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/09/new-staff-join-thetford-academy-team/) - Photo R-L: Kate Reimanis, Shannon Knowles, Melissa Friel, Patrick VanKirk, Denise Lopez Mazzeo Thetford Academy launched the new school year last week with six new staff members on the team. In July, TA was excited to welcome Kate Reimanis to the role of garden coordinator and Horticulture teacher. Kate is a longtime educator, most recently - [2nd Annual "Cowboy Classic" Field Event Meet Honors Coach Scott Chapman](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/cowboy-classic-field-event-meet-honors-former-coach-scott-chapman/) - For the second year in a row, TA's track and field athletes past and present gathered on campus for the Scott Chapman Memorial Cowboy Classic Field Meet. The event honors coach Scott Chapman, whose expertise helped bring TA's indoor and outdoor track and field teams to many championships. In addition to honoring Scott, the Cowboy - [John Brown, Thetford Academy's 2025 Employee of the Year](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/john-brown-thetford-academys-2025-employee-of-the-year/) - Reliable. Hard working. Kind. Steady. Organized. Helpful. Dedicated. These are some of the many awesome adjectives shared in response to the prompt: What words come to mind to describe our colleague John Brown? Congratulations to Director of Buildings and Grounds John Brown, the recipient of the 2025 Peters Family Dedicated Employee of the Year Award! - [Affirmative: First Annual Debate Camp a Success](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/affirmed-first-annual-uv-speech-and-debate-camp-a-success/) - Earlier this month, Thetford Academy hosted the inaugural session of the Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp (UVSDC). The camp, designed for students rising into 7th to 10th grade, is a new collaboration between the debate teams of Hanover High School and Thetford Academy. Student leaders from both teams - TA senior Daniel Mann and Hanover's - [Collaboration, Connection & Preparation: August Inservice Days](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/collaboration-connection-preparation-august-inservice-days/) - Following the quieter summer months on campus with just a dozen or so employees keeping the school humming, we welcomed teachers, paraeducators, and other staff on a school-year calendar back to school last Thursday for three packed days of professional development. Back-to-school inservice days provide vital time for educators to prepare for the launch of - [TA Together Again - First Week of Faculty In-Service](https://thetfordacademy.org/2020/08/ta-together-again-first-week-of-faculty-in-service/) - On Monday, Thetford Academy's full faculty returned to campus for the 2020-2021 school year. With a delayed school start date and the COVID-19 pandemic upending everything "usual" about teaching and learning, TA's in-service this year will run two weeks instead of its normal few days. This much-needed additional time is helping TA educators prepare for - [2000 Student Athletes Take on Woods Trail](https://thetfordacademy.org/2019/10/29th-annual-woods-trail-run-brings-many-firsts-for-ta/) - For the last 29 years, Thetford Academy has been the proud host of the Woods Trail Run, widely considered the best of New England's middle and high school cross country circuit every year. This year, as bus after bus pulled into TA's lots, the temperature hovered at 32 degrees and a dense fog hung over - [7th Grade Pie Sale: Oct. 7](https://thetfordacademy.org/2017/10/7th-grade-pie-sale-raise-funds-trip-washington-d-c/) - The TA 7th graders will be selling pies this Saturday, Oct. 7, on the Thetford Hill Green from 9 a.m. until the pies are gone. Come support the TA 7th graders as they raise money for their Washington DC trip in the spring. Pies are $15. Event happens rain or shine. Also available for purchase: "Cow Plop Flop," with - [TA Begins Academic Year With Five International Students](https://thetfordacademy.org/2021/09/ta-begins-academic-year-with-five-international-students/) - The International Student Program at TA is excited to welcome five students to campus this year, two returning and three new to TA. Seung Gyu (Alex) Kim, a senior from Seoul, Korea, returns for his 4th year at TA. Shisi (Cissy) Dai, a junior from Beijing, China begins her third year with TA. In addition, - [Free Summer Programs Offered by ISTS at Dartmouth College](https://thetfordacademy.org/2018/03/free-summer-programs-offered-ists-dartmouth-college/) - The Institute for Security, Technology and Society (ISTS) at Dartmouth College is pleased to offer, once again, free summer programs exploring cybersecurity to area high school students. We appreciate your assistance in encouraging students to apply for one of these five day programs, that will run July 9th through July 13th (Introductory Program) and July 30th - [New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/new-student-welcome-and-back-to-school-picnic-2/) - Thetford Academy is looking forward to hosting students and families for two community events on August 24: a new student welcome and TA’s annual back to school picnic. Beginning at 4:00 p.m., TA invites all new, incoming students to campus for a fun opportunity to get ready for the first day of school. New students - [Getting to 'Y' Spotlights Thetford Academy's Student Leaders](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/08/getting-to-y-spotlights-thetford-academys-student-leaders/) - Thetford Academy's student leaders had another great year in Up for Learning's Getting to 'Y' program, a statewide initiative empowering young people to make a difference in their school communities. With support from adult partners, GTY participants learn to lead a cycle of Youth Participatory Action Research and use data from the Centers for Disease - [TA Alums Rock Hungary in Music Exchange Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/07/ta-alums-rock-hungary-in-music-exchange-program/) - Tuck's Rock Dojo, the Etna music school founded by Thetford Academy alum Tuck Stocking '96 and his wife Kata Sasvari, has long been a part of the Upper Valley scene. Tuck's students can be found rocking the Norwich Fair, performing at Lebanon's NEXUS Music and Art Festival, and showcasing their talent at other UV locales - [Schoolhouse Rocks Summer Series Presents "Fun Fest" on Aug. 5](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/07/schoolhouse-rocks-summer-series-presents-fun-fest-on-aug-5/) - Thetford Academy's Schoolhouse Rocks summer event series continues with Fun Fest, a fun-filled family event featuring bounce houses, ice cream, live music, and a petting zoo! TA's Fun Fest is free and open to the public, scheduled for 5pm - 7pm on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at Thetford Academy. The Chris Billiau Quartet will be - [Uly Junker Named VT Gatorade Player of the Year in Track and Field](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/07/uly-junker-named-vt-gatorade-player-of-the-year-in-track-and-field/) - Uly Junker-Boyce's winning track and field season just keeps going. Last month, Uly was named Vermont's "Gatorade Player of the Year" in Track and Field, the "top honor in high school sports, celebrating the nation’s best high school athletes for their success on the field, in the classroom and in the community." Over the course - [Head of School (Final) Weekly Email: Ending on a High Note](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/07/head-of-school-final-weekly-email-ending-on-a-high-note/) - Dear TA Families, As June draws to a close, and the 2024-25 school year is fully and officially over, I wanted to reach out with a final message to share parting reflections and summertime school info. High Note: Celebrating the Class of 2025 The school year ended on so many high notes. This was literally the - [Tomorrow! Schoolhouse Rocks Event Series Kicks Off with Zach Nugent and Sunshine Garcia Becker](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/07/tomorrow-schoolhouse-rocks-event-series-kicks-off-with-zach-nugent-and-sunshine-garcia-becker/) - Thetford Academy's Schoolhouse Rocks summer event series kicks off July 2, from 6pm - 8pm with acoustic duo Zach Nugent and Sunshine Garcia Becker. Zach Nugent is best known for his "ability to channel the spirit of Jerry Garcia, Peter Rowan, Tony Rice, David Grisman (and many more) through his own songwriting and select covers." - [TOP Trail Crew Maintains, Improves TA's Trails and Disc Golf Course](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/top-trail-crew-maintains-improves-tas-trails-and-disc-golf-course/) - The Thetford Outdoor Program’s (TOP) Summer Leadership programs launched last month with its annual work week on TA’s trails. Each year, the TOP trail crew heads to the woods to assess and maintain Thetford Academy’s vast trail system - cutting back branches, repairing bridges, removing blowdowns, cleaning out water bars, and more. This year’s group - [Congratulations, Thetford Academy Class of 2025!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/congratulations-graduates-celebrating-the-achievements-of-the-class-of-2025/) - Photo credit: Gary Engler Thetford Academy was proud to celebrate the achievements of the exceptional Class of 2025 at the school's 206th commencement ceremony on Friday. It was a cool and clear evening and in their caps and gowns, graduates shared the risers on the lawn of the White Building. They were surrounded by hundreds - [Panthers' Uly Junker-Boyce Wins Two Track and Field New England Championships](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/panthers-uly-junker-boyce-wins-two-track-and-field-new-england-championships/) - Thirteen Thetford Academy athletes competed this weekend at the New England Track and Field Championship in New Britain, CT, the largest group from TA that has ever competed at outdoor New Englands. TA athletes set three new VT state records and, for the first time ever, TA brought home two New England championship medals - - [Panthers Roar! TA Baseball Takes Division 3 Title in Championship Game](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/panthers-roar-ta-baseball-takes-division-3-title-in-championship-game/) - For the second time in three years, the Panthers roared to the state title in a rematch vs. rival White River Valley. Prior to their 2023 championship win, Panthers baseball hadn't clinched a title since 1987 - but it's safe to say things are looking up for TA on the diamond. The Panthers walked into - [Celebrating the Class of 2025 - Baccalaureate, Class Day, and Graduation](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/celebrating-the-class-of-2025-baccalaureate-class-day-and-graduation/) - Thetford Academy's Class of 2025 is winding down their high school career with a series of milestones and celebrations - baccalaureate, final exams, class day, and finally, graduation. Graduation week started Sunday with TA's traditional baccalaureate ceremony, featuring student speeches from graduating seniors Ethan Roy and Caleb Crossett, and a musical presentation from Halogenica, a - [Panther Boys Take D3 Title at State Meet, Softball and Baseball Playoffs Continue](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/panther-boys-take-d3-title-at-state-meet-softball-and-baseball-playoffs-continue/) - The Panther boys had another record-breaking day on Thursday, defeating 17 teams in the Division 3 track and field championship to take home their sixth consecutive state title. The team's seniors Uly Junker-Boyce, Luke Miller, Brady Sloop, and Evan Rich earned 127 of the teams 164.5 points and took the top spot in seven meet - [Day of Giving Update, Just 4 More Alumni Donors Needed!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/day-of-giving-update-just-4-more-alumni-donors-needed/) - Exciting update from Thetford Academy's Day of Giving last week: we exceeded our overall goal of 100 donors! Thank you to each and every one of you who made a gift to support our students and community. The catch, though - we still need four alumni donors in order to meet the Jack and Dorothy - [TA Drama Charters Official Troupe with International Thespian Society](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/ta-drama-charters-official-troupe-with-international-thespian-society/) - The Thetford Academy Drama Department is proud to announce the chartering of an official troupe with the International Thespian Society (ITS), the honor society for high school theatre students. Being approved to form a troupe is a significant achievement that reflects the strength and dedication of TA’s theatre program. The application process requires schools to - [Head of School Weekly Email: Culminating Experiences & Achievements](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/head-of-school-weekly-email-culminating-experiences-achievements/) - Dear TA Families, We do it all! The many talents of TA students are on display in these final weeks of the school year, with culminating experiences and competitions in the arts, academics, and athletics. Thank you for supporting your students as they strive to manage their time, stay organized, complete deadlines, achieve their goals, keep - [It's Playoff Time for the Panthers!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/its-playoff-time-for-the-panthers/) - Photo credit: J & R Photography Well, that went by fast - it's already playoff time for the Panthers! Our middle school track and field team wrapped up last week at the Connecticut Valley Championship and the VT State Championship. Shout out to Peter Horan, Danny Lloyd, Asa Williams, and Emmeline Saint-Fleur for their outstanding - [Celebrate the Arts at TA's Spring Concert and Arts Expo on June 4](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/06/celebrate-the-arts-at-tas-spring-concert-and-arts-expo-on-june-4/) - Thetford Academy's student artists - musicians, performers, painters, designers, chefs, and more - will come together tomorrow night to showcase their work to the community and celebrate the arts at TA. Join us for our annual Spring Concert and Arts Expo - an exciting evening of performance, art exhibits, and culinary delights. Doors open at - [Head of School Weekly Email: Lots to Celebrate - and More to Come!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-lots-to-celebrate-and-more-to-come/) - Dear TA Families, Earlier this week the owners of the venue where the seniors had their prom sent me a nice note of thanks. While it was a surprise to receive - and a delight to read - the sentiments they expressed had a familiar echo. It's amazing how often I hear this kind of feedback, - [Opening Doors on TA's Day of Giving: June 6, 2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/opening-doors-on-tas-day-of-giving-june-6-2025/) - Open the door to Thetford Academy's Day of Giving! Scheduled for next Friday, June 6, 2025, this year's Day of Giving will take a look inside our school community, opening the door to the classrooms and experiences happening every day at TA. We'll hear from educators about their work to inspire and challenge students, and - [A Student's Reflection on TA's Class Trip to Montreal, "The Sugar Shack"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/a-students-reflection-on-tas-class-trip-to-montreal-the-sugar-shack/) - By Benjamin Barton '29 As I beat the pair of spoons in my hand against my knee, I took a moment to look around the enormous dining hall made entirely of pretty pine wood. With a total of 20 tables, each able to seat 12 people, and lights strung up around the pillars holding up - [Summer is for Reading: Middle School Students 'Get Hooked on a Series'](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/summer-is-for-reading-middle-school-students-get-hooked-on-a-series/) - by English faculty Sarah Hancock and Kristen Downey Summer months are for reading. What better way to spend summer than getting lost in a fun new novel? As middle school English teachers, we care deeply about helping students discover or rediscover the joy of reading. That’s why we’re wrapping up the year with our annual - [After 26 Years at TA, Science Teacher Gary Engler to Retire](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/after-26-years-at-ta-science-teacher-gary-engler-to-retire/) - Thetford Academy Science teacher Gary Engler will retire this year after 26 years in the classroom. Teaching was Mr. Engler's second vocation (the first was social work) a mid-life shift that began when his own children started attending Lebanon, NH schools. As a parent, he became deeply involved in the school system, running weekly music - [Head of School Weekly Email: Parent Survey, Arts Night & Finals Week](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-parent-survey-arts-night-finals-week/) - Dear TA Families, Annual Parent Survey - Deadline May 30If you haven't yet, just a reminder to parents and guardians to please take our annual school climate survey. We cover a lot of topics in the survey but try to keep the format user-friendly - should take only about 10 minutes to complete. Your feedback helps inform - [Portfolios: What's the Point?](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/portfolios-whats-the-point/) - There is a common sentiment among researchers that what gets tracked is what gets prioritized. This certainly has a ring of truth to it in schools. Report cards, for example, give us key information on how students are doing in individual classes each semester. They are an essential metric to understanding academic progress - but - [Head of School Weekly Email: The Final Four (Weeks of School)!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-the-final-four-weeks-of-school/) - Dear TA Families, Our second Roundtable Day of the spring today marked the beginning of the final stretch of the school year. What lies ahead? 🎭 Spring musical performances of Grease - all weekend! 5/16-5/18 🗓️ Three full weeks of classes and a fourth week focused on final projects and exams. 5/19-6/13 🪅 Our annual Student Appreciation Week - [Grease a Rollicking Ride through Rydell High (+ Photos)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/student-performance-of-grease-a-rollicking-ride-through-rydell-high-photos/) - This weekend, TA students gave audiences a rollicking performance of the iconic musical Grease. If you were lucky enough to get a ticket to one of the four sold-out shows, you were treated to a joyful trip to Rydell High, complete with leather jackets, poodle skirts, and all the drama of high school in the - [Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp Debuts at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/upper-valley-speech-and-debate-camp-debuts-at-ta/) - This summer, Thetford Academy and Hanover High School debaters have teamed up to launch the Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp. The camp, hosted on campus at TA, is a week-long program designed to help students build confidence, sharpen their public speaking, and develop strong critical thinking and argumentation skills – all in a fun - [Track Athletes Break School and State Records in Burlington and Beyond](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/track-athletes-break-records-at-burlington-invitational/) - This spring, most of the track and field updates from coach Joel Breakstone begin with something like "in less than ideal conditions." or "in misty, cool conditions." - an acknowledgment of just how tough the weather has been for our athletes this season. But, with true TA grit, the weather hasn't held the Panthers back - [With Operation Day's Work, TA Students Support Teens in Zimbabwe](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/with-operation-days-work-ta-students-support-teens-in-zimbabwe/) - Operation Day's Work - or "ODW Day" as it's known on campus - is a longstanding Thetford Academy tradition. This service-learning experience is student-led and managed and aims to make a difference in the lives of young people across the world. TA's ODW Club, this year with 16 student leaders, plans ODW's annual work day - [Head of School Weekly Email: Service Learning & the Value of Labor](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-service-learning-the-value-of-labor/) - Dear TA Families, Thetford Academy students fanned out into the community and around campus today, rolling up their sleeves and working on projects, as part of our annual ODW Service Day. Operation Day's Work is an international community service program that encourages young people to help raise funds for other young people around the globe. - [TA Students Celebrate Success at New England Drama Festival](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/ta-students-celebrate-success-at-new-england-drama-festival/) - "From the haunting opening music, the chirping of crickets, the green background light silhouetting the reeds and trees, and the illuminated firefly hats of the feu follet, the audience was transported not only to a clearly defined place and time, but a place and time inhabited by magic…The cast presented characterizations that successfully blended the - [Head of School Weekly Email: MS Dance, Parent Survey, Teacher Appreciation & More May News!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-ms-dance-parent-survey-teacher-appreciation-more-may-news/) - Dear TA Families, Happy May! We are back from spring break and have lots of activity in store for the final six weeks of the school year. This week's email invites you to take action on a few fronts, so check out the info and links below and plug in as best you can. Thanks, - [Making Memories in France and Spain](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/making-memories-in-france-and-spain/) - At one of the pre-trip meetings for the 17 students who made the commitment to travel together to France and Spain, as students peppered Madame Heinzmann with the usual questions — How many pairs of pants should I pack? Should I bring my bathing suit? — she offered a piece of advice that stuck with - [Panthers in Full Swing for Spring](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/panthers-in-full-swing-for-spring/) - Spring is finally in the air and the sun is shining! The spring season is off to a great start for middle and high school athletic teams. High School Track and FieldThe high school track and field team competed well at their first meet in St. Johnsbury. The pouring rain didn’t stop Ava Hayden from - [Head of School Weekly Email: Sharing Appreciation](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-sharing-appreciation/) - Dear TA Families, It's always a good time to share appreciation with the educators in our lives. But this week seems like an especially good one to tee up the official Teacher Appreciation Week that happens in May. With the One Act students in St. Albans last weekend, the 8th graders in Montreal this week, and - [Thetford Academy Presents the Iconic Musical Grease May 16-18](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/thetford-academy-presents-the-iconic-musical-grease/) - Thetford Academy is thrilled to announce its upcoming spring musical production of Grease, the beloved rock ‘n’ roll musical that’s sure to get audiences singing, dancing, and cheering for the Pink Ladies and T-Birds! Join us as we journey back to Rydell High in the 1950s, where romance, rebellion, and rock and roll rule. Featuring - [High School Course Registration for 2025-26: Resources & Timeline](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/high-school-course-registration-for-2025-26-resources-timeline/) - It’s time to start planning ahead for next school year! The Counseling Department has begun hosting sessions for each of the grades to guide students through the planning process and provide instruction on the high school course registration steps. We invite parents and caregivers to be a part of this process with their student. Below - [Red Sox Recognizes Ted Peters '63 as Most Valuable Educator in Pre-Game Ceremony](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/red-sox-recognizes-ted-peters-63-as-most-valuable-educator-in-pre-game-ceremony/) - The Boston Red Sox recently recognized retired TA educator, Ted Peters '63, as Most Valuable Educator for the month of April. The recognition, held in a pregame ceremony at Fenway Park, was organized by Ted's daughter Mary Lou Jones to coincide with his 80th birthday. In her nomination, which was read on the field, Mary - [Thetford Academy Students Celebrate the Arts with Bernie Sanders](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/thetford-academy-students-celebrate-the-arts-with-bernie-sanders/) - Nine Thetford Academy choral students were among 135 musicians from across Vermont who performed last week at VTSU Castleton. The April 5 Choral Concert and Town Meeting on the Arts, hosted by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, was a powerful showcase of student talent and an important conversation about the value of arts education in schools. - [One Act Play "Rue" Wins VT State Drama Festival](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/one-act-play-rue-wins-vt-state-drama-festival/) - After two successful performances at Thetford Academy and a win at the regional competition (hosted by TA) in March, the cast and crew of the one-act play Rue took the show to St. Albans this weekend to perform at the Vermont State Drama Festival. Rue, written by Mandy Conner, centers around sixteen-year-old Josephine, who struggles - [Head of School Weekly Email: A Mission Morning](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-a-mission-morning/) - Dear TA Families, Yesterday was our first of two TA Roundtable Days this spring. (The next one is May 16.) We pause our regular class schedule on these days and dedicate the half day to special activities coordinated by the grade-level advisory teams. Roundtable Days are one of the ways that we make time throughout the school - [Thetford Academy Students Earn Third Place at Vermont Pitch Challenge](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/thetford-academy-students-earn-third-place-at-vermont-pitch-challenge/) - Photo courtesy of the University of Vermont Thetford Academy seniors Elie O'Brien and Hardy Payson, and Elie's sister Penelope, earned third place in the University of Vermont's "Vermont Pitch Challenge." Now in its second year, the Pitch Challenge "gives high school entrepreneurs from across the globe the chance to pitch innovative businesses that make a - [Student-Led Community Dialogue Focuses on Prevention of Youth Risk Behaviors](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/student-led-community-dialogue-focuses-on-prevention-of-youth-risk-behaviors/) - Guest post by Ranee Hall '28 On Thursday, Thetford Academy students and community members joined the Getting to Y club to discuss the root causes of - and potential solutions to - student concerns identified in the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey data. This Community Dialogue event was a follow-up to the club’s February 14 - [Head of School Weekly Email: The Power of Showing Up](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-the-power-of-showing-up/) - Dear TA Families, I was reminded many times this week of the power of showing up. It all starts with people being willing to be present and participate - whatever the 'it' might be! In this week's email, I am excited to shine the spotlight on a few recent examples of Thetford Academy students showing - [Head of School Weekly Email: April News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-april-news/) - Dear TA Families, No foolin' - April arrives on Tuesday! This week's email outlines some of the key dates and activities at TA in the coming weeks. On Thursday, April 3, 5:45-7:45pm: The Getting to Y club is hosting a Community Dialogue Event to explore public health youth issues, using local and regional YRBS data. All ages, all - [Thetford Historical Society Presents Spring Series, Vermont's Forests: Past, Present, and Future](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/thetford-historical-society-presents-spring-series-vermonts-forests-past-present-and-future/) - The Thetford Historical Society is gearing up for another exciting spring speaker series, which this year, will focus on Vermont's abundant forests. The series, "Vermont's Forests: Past, Present, and Future" features three local foresters who will share their perspectives on how Vermont's forests shape our identity and landscape - and how we can best manage - [Extra! Extra! Read the Latest Edition of the Thetford Academy Times from TA's Journalism Club](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/extra-extra-read-the-latest-edition-of-the-thetford-academy-times-from-tas-journalism-club/) - The Thetford Academy Times, known affectionately by students as "TAT," is Thetford Academy's school newspaper, written and produced by entirely by students. Though many high quality versions of a TA newspaper have been produced in the school's history, when the Thetford Academy Times launched in 2023, it had been several years since a paper had - [Head of School Weekly Email: The Maple Edition & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-the-maple-edition-more/) - Dear TA Families, Until the snow blew in on a cold wind this morning, we spent most of the week enjoying springlike days on campus. Recent weather has been conducive to a productive sugaring season thus far. Students who sugar at home were invited up at assembly on Monday to share a bit of their - [TA Represents at New Balance National High School Indoor Track Championships](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/ta-represents-at-new-balance-national-high-school-indoor-track-championships/) - TA's indoor track program was well-represented at the New Balance National High School Championships last weekend in Boston. Uly Junker had qualified in three separate events (the long jump, the 200 and the sprint medley relay), but sustained an injury shortly before the events began. Nevertheless, the sprint medley team of Evan Rich '25, Sebastian - [Community Day at TA’s Sugar Shack This Sunday, March 23](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/community-day-at-tas-sugar-shack-this-sunday-march-23/) - Here in Vermont, a passion for maple syrup is part of our history and identity. The tradition of boiling sap each spring also provides a unique educational opportunity for Thetford Academy students. Right here on campus, Thetford Academy has a well-maintained sugar bush and a small but mighty sugar shack (built by TA students in - [Six Thetford Academy Students Inducted into National Technical Honor Society](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/six-thetford-academy-students-inducted-into-national-technical-honor-society/) - On March 12, six Thetford Academy students were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society at River Bend Career and Technical Center. The National Technical Honor Society recognizes students who demonstrate scholastic excellence, honesty, dependability, and responsibility, as well as leadership, good citizenship, and pride in their work. We are proud to share that Hunter - [State Champions! Panthers Defeat Hazen to Take Second Consecutive Title](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/state-champions-panthers-defeat-hazen-to-take-second-consecutive-title/) - Go Panthers! In a showdown at the Barre Auditorium last weekend, Thetford Academy's Panthers defeated the Hazen Wildcats 58-44 to take the Division III state title for the second year in a row. This was the Panthers' 4th crown in seven seasons and eighth overall. The team entered the playoffs in the second seed with - [Head of School Weekly Email: Assembly Highlights & March Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-assembly-highlights-march-events/) - Dear TA Families, Every Monday we come together as a school community in our weekly assembly. The whole school - students and staff - convene in the Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium to share accolades, watch student performances, make announcements, and learn about upcoming events and opportunities. One of our school goals each year is to try - [TA Hosts 16th Annual Poetry Out Loud Contest, Caroline Watts '25 Advances to State Semifinals](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/ta-hosts-16th-annual-poetry-out-loud-contest-caroline-watts-25-advances-to-state-semifinals/) - Thetford Academy hosted its 16th annual Poetry Out Loud recitation contest in the Martha Jane Rich Theater on Monday, with performances from 11 talented TA students. Poetry Out Loud, “a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry,” has become a TA tradition and is a staple of the school’s English 10 curriculum. The - [Robotics Team 4886S Wins State Championship, Three TA Teams Headed to Worlds](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/robotics-team-4886s-wins-state-championship-three-ta-teams-headed-to-worlds/) - On Saturday, nineteen TA roboteurs took their six machines to the NH/VT Robotics State Championship at Manchester Community College in Manchester, NH. Thirty-two other robots from 12 other VT & NH schools had met the qualification criteria and were there competing. In addition to state-championship trophies, there were six invitations to the World championship in the offing. - [Season Wraps Up for TA Alpine Skiers with State Championship Races at Burke](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/season-wraps-up-for-ta-alpine-skiers-with-state-championship-races-at-burke/) - Guest post by TA Alpine Ski Coaches Paul Dixon and Amy Huyffer Thetford Academy's Alpine Ski team really hit their stride during the second half of the season. The team's top skiers continued their early climb up the leaderboards, notching some top 10 and top 15 finishes both during the regular season and at the - [TA Students Testify to Legislators for Phone-Free Schools](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/ta-students-testify-to-legislators-for-phone-free-schools/) - Guest post by TA student Elijah Renner '26. Thetford Academy students gathered on Wednesday, February 26, at the Vermont State House to support the proposed bipartisan Phone and Social Media-Free Schools bill (H.54). The bill has two key state-wide provisions: banning personal electronic devices during the school day and prohibiting school use of social media - [Speech and Debate Teams Shine at State Tournament](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/speech-and-debate-teams-shine-at-state-tournament/) - The Vermont State Debate Tournament, held on Saturday, March 8 at Saint Michael’s College in Colchester, saw 48 debaters grapple with the topic: Resolved: In the United States, the benefits of the use of generative artificial intelligence in education outweigh the harms. This was a timely and important topic, especially as generative AI continues to - [Head of School Weekly Email: Triple Header Saturday - Robotics, Debate, and Basketball!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-triple-header-saturday-robotics-debate-and-basketball/) - Dear TA Families, We jumped back into school routines this week, moving into the second half of Q3. There were signs of spring on Thetford Hill upon our return from break, with some dewy days and melting snow, birdsong in the air, and sap buckets on the trees. Triple Header on March 8Tomorrow is an - [Thetford Academy Drama Department to Present One Act Play "RUE" by Mandy Conner](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/thetford-academy-drama-department-to-present-one-act-play-rue-by-mandy-conner/) - The Thetford Academy Drama Department will present the one act play, RUE, by Mandy Conner. This production is part of the Vermont State Drama Council’s One Act Festival. Thetford Academy is proud to host schools from around the state for one of the regional festivals on March 22. Deep in a Louisiana swamp, sixteen-year-old Josephine - [Banner Day @ New England Indoor Track Championships!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/banner-day-new-england-indoor-track-championships/) - The 14 athletes representing Thetford Academy at New Englands last Saturday had an exciting and inspiring day at the Reggie Lewis Track in Boston, surrounded by the best runners, jumpers and throwers in our six-state region. They also performed incredibly well, setting new school and state records. The meet was a fitting finale for an - [Panther Basketball Teams Advance to Postseason: Varsity, JV, and MS Highlights](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/03/panther-basketball-teams-advance-to-postseason-varsity-jv-and-ms-highlights/) - The Girls' and Boys' Basketball programs have officially concluded their regular season play, with both Varsity Teams advancing to the postseason. Congratulations to the Boys' and Girls' Middle School Teams on finishing the season strong. The JV Girls' Team battled numerous injuries throughout the season, but managed to play their final games at full strength. - [Students Use Data Analysis to Find the "Y" and Make a Positive Impact](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/students-use-data-analysis-to-find-the-y-and-make-a-positive-impact/) - Guest post from TA student Hanae Debo, Class of 2025 It's hard to get any students to stay after school on a Friday, let alone a half day, let alone on Valentine's Day. Despite this, twenty TA students across all grades gathered on February 14th with a common goal: to analyze data from the 2023 - [Head of School Weekly Email: More Things We Love!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-more-things-we-love/) - Dear TA Families, In keeping with my 'things we love at TA' theme from last Friday, here are a few more shout-outs, promotions, and dates to save: Our Artists! A reminder that tonight 2/21 from 5-7pm is the opening reception for the AVA Gallery annual exhibit of high school artists. Congrats to all of the TA - [Student Leaders Help Bring "Getting to Y" to New Hampshire Schools](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/student-leaders-help-bring-getting-to-y-to-new-hampshire-schools/) - Students from Thetford Academy's chapter of Up for Learning's "Getting to 'Y'" (GTY) have been working with Vermont's program leadership to help bring the youth empowerment and risk reduction initiative across state lines. Last month, their work culminated in Concord at New Hampshire's GTY Kick Off Conference and Training Event. At the kickoff, Mavis Downey - [Two Thetford Academy Students Named National Merit Scholarship Finalists](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/two-thetford-academy-students-named-national-merit-scholarship-finalists/) - Two Thetford Academy students, Andre Whiteberg '25 and Oliver Yukica '24 (who graduated a year early and is attending Princeton University) were recently named National Merit Scholarship Finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Association. This prestigious recognition of academic performance is shared by just 15,000 students across the country each year and approximately 30 students - [Head of School Weekly Email: Happy Valentine's Day!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-happy-valentines-day/) - Dear TA Families, On the list of things we love at TA ... Founders' Day! Check out the recap of the day on our website, which includes a link to a trove of fun photos from Monday. Founders' Day is an awesome annual event that celebrates our love of community. February Break! School will not - [Thetford Academy Celebrates 82nd Founders' Day Celebration (plus PHOTOS!)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/thetford-academy-celebrates-82nd-founders-day-celebration-plus-photos/) - On Monday, February 10, 2025, Thetford Academy celebrated its 206th birthday and its 82nd annual Founders’ Day. Former Head of School Carl Anderson started the Founders’ Day tradition in 1944, after a tragic fire destroyed the school’s original campus. With Founders' Day, Anderson hoped to honor the school’s deep history, lift the spirits of its - [Head of School Weekly Email: Founders' Day Committees, AVA Art Show & Recent AOE Guidance for Schools](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-founders-day-committees-ava-art-show-recent-aoe-guidance-for-schools/) - Dear TA Families, Lots to highlight in the realm of student creativity this week: First, Founders' Day! Students were busy in their Founders' Day committees today finalizing the planning process in the morning and putting all of their ideas into action throughout the day. Each student is on one of eight committees for their grade level - [Virtual College Admissions Panel on Feb. 10](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/counseling-office-to-host-college-information-sessions-2/) - Thetford Academy's Counseling Office is hosting a series of information sessions this winter to introduce current juniors and their families to the college choice and application process. The first of these sessions in January provided an introductory overview to the college application process, with tips and resources to help families get started. Next up, on - [Head of School Weekly Email: Exploring Extracurriculars, Founders' Day & Other Feb. Dates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-exploring-extracurriculars-founders-day-other-feb-dates/) - Dear TA Families, January is a great time to set new intentions and goals. This week's email features a handful of extracurricular programs and events happening this semester for students who want to stretch themselves beyond the TA campus. While many have registration fees, most offer scholarships or a sliding scale; TA also has a - [Four Races Down, TA's Alpine Ski Team Hitting Their Stride](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/02/four-races-down-tas-alpine-ski-team-climbing-the-leaderboards/) - Guest post from Alpine Skiing Coach Paul Dixon The Thetford Academy Ski Team is off to a great start over the first half of the season with four races behind us and four more to go including the District and State Championships held at Burke in early March. Despite the early lack of snow the - [Champions Again! TA Boys Take Division II State Track and Field Title, Girls Earn Fifth](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/champions-again-ta-boys-take-division-ii-state-track-and-field-title-girls-earn-fifth/) - Guest post by Coach Charlie Buttrey The TA indoor track team made history on Sunday at UVM's Gutterson Field House as the boys earned a D-II state championship, and the girls raced to a solid 5th-place finish. Indoor track is the only sport in which TA competes at the D-II level, so the win was - [Head of School Weekly Email: Semester 2 Launch!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-semester-2-launch/) - Featured photo this week: It's never too early - the spring musical class is prepping for auditions for their production of Grease, May 16-18. Save the dates! Dear TA Families, Sharing the latest school news as we move into the second half of the school year ... School Events: The 10th grade invites students to - [Health Office Update: January 23, 2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/health-office-update-january-23-2025/) - Dental Care this Winter will be Jan. 27th -Feb. 6th: Students will get their teeth cleaned next week & the beginning of the following week. Please remind your children. • The HealthHub dentist is at the Chelsea Health Center & does fillings there. • Please call or email Nurse Ellen with any questions. Illnesses at TA Unfortunately - [Health Office Update: January 3, 2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/health-office-update-january-3-2024/) - Welcome to the New Year! Dental Care this Winter: A great opportunity: if your student usually sees the Ronald McDonald Van for dental care and you would like to have your student's teeth cleaned please return the attached forms as soon as possible. • The HealthHUB dental hygienist will be doing dental cleanings at TA starting - [Health Office Update: January 9, 2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/health-office-update-january-9-2024/) - Dental Care this Winter: A great opportunity: if your student usually sees the Ronald McDonald Van for dental care and you would like to have your student's teeth cleaned please return the attached forms as soon as possible. • The HealthHUB dental hygienist will be doing dental cleanings at TA starting January 27th. This will be - [Health Office Update: January 16, 2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/health-office-update-january-16-2024/) - Dental Care this Winter: Please, please, turn in your student's enrollment form as soon as possible. You can take a photo of the forms & email them back & I can get them to our hygienist. Please see attached forms. • The HealthHUB dental hygienist will be doing dental cleanings at TA starting January 27th. - [Dartmouth’s Community High School Program Is Back!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/dartmouths-community-high-school-program-is-back/) - When the world shut down in March 2020, one of the many opportunities disrupted for high school students in the Upper Valley was the option to take a class at Dartmouth College. Juniors and seniors at Thetford Academy had long taken advantage of this generous program that provides no-cost, credit-bearing classes at our Ivy League - [Head of School Weekly Email: January Updates over the MLK Weekend](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-january-updates-over-the-mlk-weekend/) - Dear TA Families, I want to thank the parents, grandparents, family friends, and community mentors who were able to attend end-of-semester presentations and performances in recent weeks. We know it is not easy to carve out the time during the work day and appreciate your participation. By showing up, you create a 'real world' audience - [Head of School Weekly Email: Reflections on Change and Transition](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-reflections-on-change-and-transition/) - Dear TA Families, As the rhythms of the school year go, a highlight for me as each semester comes to a close is attending final presentations in classes. Being in the audience as students proudly, thoughtfully, nervously - but also confidently - share their work and creativity, their reflections, and a bit about themselves, is - [Thetford Academy Track and Field Athletes Poised to Make History at State Meet](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/thetford-academy-track-and-field-athletes-poised-to-make-history-at-state-meet/) - The Thetford Academy indoor track and field team is poised to make history at the State Meet in two weeks. Already, TA's Panther athletes have turned in eye-popping performances: Senior Uly Junker-Boyce broke the state record in both the 55 meter dash and the 300, and senior Ava Hayden is now the state record holder - [TA's Robotic Teams in the Heat of the Season, State Championship Coming Up](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/tas-robotic-teams-in-the-heat-of-the-season-state-championship-coming-up/) - Thetford Academy's robotics team is in the heat of their season right now, with just two meets to go before the VT/NH State Championship. In their most recent meet on January 4, the team took five robots to the "Bow Bot Bout" in Bow, NH to compete against 32 more from other schools. The first success - [Head of School Weekly Email: Exam Week, College Info Night, Athletics & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-exam-week-college-info-night-athletics-more/) - Dear TA Families, Early January is a busy time of transition, as we return from holiday break and jump back into classes. Students are working on culminating projects, essays, performances, exams, and reflections during this final stretch of the semester. Please encourage and support students as they prep for important deadlines in the coming days and weeks. 🗓️ Final Exams - [A New Year's Note from the TA Garden](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/a-new-years-note-from-the-ta-garden/) - In Vermont’s winter season, many of us spend time reflecting on our last year and planning the year ahead. On campus, we are doing this too, thinking about our year in the garden and taking stock of how we’re doing in our farm-to-school programming. Even amidst the chaos and excitement of a big potato harvest - [TA Student's Science Experiment Headed to the International Space Station](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/ta-students-science-experiment-headed-to-the-international-space-station/) - Thetford Academy sophomore Nick Smallwood's science experiment is headed to space! Nick recently attended a Go for Launch!" (GFL!) space camp hosted at Norwich University. GFL! is exciting program that leverages space flight and exploration to help students develop skills in STEM, teamwork, communication, research design, and leadership. Students in the two-day program work side-by-side - [Environmental Studies Students' "Solo" Night in the Woods Builds Confidence](https://thetfordacademy.org/2025/01/students-solo-night-in-the-woods-builds-confidence/) - In Thetford Academy's half-day Environmental Studies and Outdoor Education class, students spend a lot of time learning in, and from, the forest ecosystem. They also learn basic outdoor survival skills, building their own shelters to use over the course of the semester. Every student creates a "solo spot" shelter, a place for quiet reflection, reading, - [1st Annual Haunted Harvest Robotics Tournament Brings TA Together](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/1st-annual-haunted-harvest-robotics-tournament-brings-ta-together/) - On Saturday Nov 2, 2024, 32 robot teams from Vermont and New Hampshire converged on Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium at Thetford Academy for the first annual Haunted Harvest Robotics Tournament. It was the first time TA had hosted a tournament in over ten years, and due to the outstanding planning team led by Catherine Kutter and - [One Piece at a Time, One Connection at a Time](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/one-piece-at-a-time-one-connection-at-a-time/) - Dear TA Community, Near and Far, Greetings from Thetford Academy! We’ve had an inspired autumn here on Thetford Hill, savoring the colors and mountain views. We hope you, too, have had a beautiful fall and wish for everyone plenty of warmth and light to take us through the winter season. We welcomed a large ninth - [Head of School Weekly Email: Making Headlines & Spreading Cheer!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-making-headlines-spreading-cheer/) - Dear TA Families, In keeping with the season of giving, our assembly this week featured a variety of clubs and classes generously raising funds and awareness for community needs on both the local and global levels. It was inspiring to have so many student groups modeling our school values of Care, Cooperation, and Diversity! On - [TA's Indoor Track Season Opens at UVM, Uly Junker-Boyce '25 Sets State Record](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/tas-indoor-track-season-opens-at-uvm-uly-junker-boyce-25-sets-state-record/) - Photo: Uly Junker-Boyce '25 in the 55m dash at UVM last January, photo by Matthew Hayden. Nearly forty students are competing on Thetford Academy's indoor track and field team, which started its season with a bang last weekend. Competing at the University of Vermont against dozens of other Vermont schools, the boys team finished 2nd, - [Head of School Weekly Email: Winter Season Spotlights, College & Career Planning](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-winter-season-spotlights-college-career-planning/) - Dear TA Families, Winter is here! The snow and chilly temps change up our routines - but don't deter us from heading outside during the school day. Some early winter season spotlights (featured in this week's photos): Kathy Hooke's forestry class has been taking advantage of TA's hilltop yurt to continue their outdoor studies into December. - [Calling All Panthers! Alumni Basketball Saturday, Dec. 28 @ 11am](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/calling-all-panthers-save-the-date-alumni-basketball-dec-28/) - Calling all Panthers! This year's alumni basketball game is scheduled for Saturday, December 28th at 11 a.m. and we are excited! We've got a good roster of alumni from the classes of 1984 to the class of 2020, but could still use a few more players. As always, all alumni are invited, welcome, and encouraged - [Taking on Climate Change at the Youth Climate Leadership Academy: A Student's Perspective](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/taking-on-climate-change-at-youth-climate-leadership-academy-a-students-perspective/) - Guest post by Hanae Debo, Class of 2025 The annual Youth Climate Leadership Academy (YCLA) is hosted by the Vermont Energy Education Program (VEEP) and the New Hampshire Energy Education Program (NHEEP) at Hulbert Outdoor Center in Fairlee, VT. It is a two-day event in which high school students from NH and VT come together - [Resolved: Thetford Academy Hosts First Debate Tournament](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/thetford-academy-hosts-first-debate-tournament/) - Thetford Academy hosted its first debate tournament on Saturday, with 10 high school teams attending the mid-season competition. From their home "court" vantage, TA's debaters deftly landed their arguments to earn the meet's Sweepstakes Award. The sweepstakes award gives each team 1 point per debate and 1 extra point for a win. The school with - [Head of School Weekly Email: FAFSA Workshop, Winter Concert & More December News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-fafsa-workshop-winter-concert-more-december-news/) - Dear TA Families, The weeks between Thanksgiving and the Holiday Break are busy ones at Thetford Academy. Here is a preview of some key December dates. Dec. 9 - FAFSA Workshop for the Class of 2025 We hope to see lots of seniors and their family members on Monday evening at our annual FAFSA workshop - [Giving Tuesday! Start Your Season of Giving at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/giving-tuesday-start-your-season-of-giving-at-ta/) - This year, we hope you'll start your season of giving at Thetford Academy. Giving Tuesday is a global celebration of philanthropy and here at TA, we have a lot of reasons to celebrate. Your gifts to TA this year have helped us make transformative improvements to our campus - like the recent addition of a - [Music Makes the World a Better Place! Join Us on Dec 11 for Thetford Academy's Winter Concert](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/12/music-makes-the-world-a-better-place-join-us-on-dec-11-for-thetford-academys-winter-concert/) - Thetford Academy's music department is excited to share some joy with you! On Wednesday, December 11, at 6:30 p.m., our instrumental musicians, stage band, and middle school chorus will showcase their talents in our annual Winter Concert. Chorus students will perform an eclectic concert of classic pop, musical theater, contemporary choral and traditional standard music - [Head of School Weekly Email: Happy Thanksgiving!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-happy-thanksgiving/) - Dear TA Families, A short note on this short week with one big message: On behalf of all of us at Thetford Academy, we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the extra time with family and friends over the holiday weekend. We will see everyone back on Monday. Carrie Brennan, Head of School Featured photos: - [Head of School Weekly Email: Phone-Free Routines, Crucible Shows, and Thanksgiving Traditions](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-phone-free-routines-crucible-shows-and-thanksgiving-traditions/) - Dear TA Families, Question: "If you were in a traveling circus, what role would you have?" First response: "The lion tamer, no doubt!" This fun discussion prompt, which quickly elicited spirited answers from friends around the table, was one of many interesting conversations I caught little pieces of while strolling around on lunch duty earlier - [Thetford Academy’s Culinary Arts Program Centers Community Service](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/thetford-academys-culinary-arts-program-centers-community-service/) - Thetford Academy’s longtime Culinary Arts teacher Jennifer Gernhard centers community service in her curriculum, teaching students both how to cook and how to make a difference. For example, in Jennifer’s Cooking for Health class, students recently collaborated with a local church group to raise money for the Thetford Food Shelf, preparing 150 servings of apple - [Celebrating the Expansion of Accessibility at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/24592/) - Pictured (l to r): Pril Hall, trustee of Thetford's Farm Trust; Jane Francisco, representing the Frances Barrows Fund; Beckie Gray, '59; John Brown, Director of Buildings and Grounds; Barbara Smith, '58; Carrie Brennan, Head of School; Patty McIlvaine, Director of Advancement; and Caleb Crossett, '25. We hosted a small ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 19 to - [Head of School Weekly Email: Performing Arts Shows, Winter Sports & Alma Reminder](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-performing-arts-shows-winter-sports-alma-reminder/) - Dear TA Families, Three topics to turn your attention to this week: 👉 Come out to support the performing arts at Thetford Academy and celebrate student creativity and talent! 🎶 🎭 The fall play drama class presents 'The Crucible' next weekend. There are four performances, Nov. 22-24, with lead roles played by two different casts. Get - [Alumni Association Holiday Craft Bazaar Nov. 23](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/alumni-association-holiday-craft-bazaar-nov-23/) - Don't miss the Thetford Academy Alumni Association's 38th annual Holiday Craft Bazaar! Next Saturday, November 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., join us on campus for this popular holiday craft showcase. Featuring the work of the Upper Valley's best artisans, including some of TA's own faculty, this event is a don''t-miss for holiday shopping. - [TA Drama Presents "The Crucible" Nov. 22-24 THIS WEEKEND](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/save-the-date-for-ta-dramas-performance-of-the-crucible/) - Thetford Academy is proud to present Arthur Miller’s The Crucible. Widely considered a masterpiece, this timeless classic challenges American ideas of power, intolerance, and justice set against the backdrop of the Salem Witch Trials. In the Puritan community of Salem, Massachusetts, a servant girl accuses a farmer’s wife of witchcraft. One accusation spirals into many, - [Head of School Weekly Email: Veterans Day Assembly, Robotics Meet & Other November News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-veterans-day-assembly-robotics-meet-other-november-news/) - Dear TA Families, We had a fun spirit week and lots of Halloween creativity. I was impressed with the number of students who participated each day, starting with a very cozy Monday with so many students in pajamas! We closed the week on a more serious note, gathering as a school community for a special Veterans - [Cross Country Team Captains Represent at New Englands](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/cross-country-team-captains-represent-at-new-englands/) - On Saturday, November 9th, Brady Sloop and Ava Hayden represented Thetford Academy at the 89th Annual New England Interscholastic Cross Country Championships. Brady and Ava qualified for this event by finishing in the top 25 (across all divisions) at the Vermont State Championships held at Thetford Academy on October 26th. Following the state meet, Brady and - [Head of School Weekly Email: Reflections on the Bridge Re-Opening, the Presidential Election, and Our TA Community](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-reflections-on-the-bridge-re-opening-the-presidential-election-and-our-ta-community/) - Dear TA Families, Next week, at long last, the bridge connecting Thetford, VT and Lyme, NH will reopen. While only 18 months in duration, the project took place over the course of three school years, starting in the spring semester of 2022-23 and ending in the fall semester of 2024-25. What a relief for our - [Speech and Debate Season Opens with Scrimmage at Hanover High School](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/11/speech-and-debate-season-opens-with-scrimmage-at-hanover-high-school/) - Sonya Sotomayor, Oprah Winfrey, Brad Pitt, Weird Al Yankovic, and Zac Efron. What do these notable people all have in common? They joined their high school speech and debate teams! And just like those notable personalities, eighteen intrepid TA students have joined TA's speech and debate team for our second season. The high school competes - [State Meet Success, Panthers Make TA Proud](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/state-meet-success-panthers-make-ta-proud/) - At Vermont's Cross Country State Championship, the competition each year is reliably fierce. In the Panthers' Division III, Coaches Joe Deffner and Emily Silver had run the numbers and knew it would be tough for TA to beat top teams Stowe and BFA Fairfax. "Looking at the other teams before the race," Deffner told the - [Head of School Weekly Email (the Sunday edition)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-the-sunday-edition-2/) - Dear TA Families, Hosting & Traveling This past week was a busy one of hosting and traveling. On the athletics front, the boys soccer team hosted local rival Oxbow on Tuesday and kept the crowd on the edge of their seats with a double overtime win, 1-0. The girls varsity soccer team and their fans traveled - [Piper Leibon Awarded UVM's Green and Gold Scholars Award](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/piper-leibon-awarded-uvms-green-and-gold-scholars-award/) - Congratulations to Piper Leibon! Piper is the TA recipient of the University of Vermont’s Green and Gold Scholars Award for the Class of 2025. The Green and Gold scholarship provides full in-state tuition to UVM for four years and is awarded to the most academically talented rising high school senior in every eligible Vermont secondary - [Panthers Have Strong Showing at SVL League Championship](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/panthers-have-strong-showing-at-svl-league-championship/) - On a bluebird day, at the league championship this past Friday in Bellows Falls, the TA cross country team accorded itself impressively well. Eighth grader Peter Horan beat 41 other runners to emerge victorious in a time of 10:44 in the middle school boys' race. While the Thetford boys did not have enough runners to - [Head of School Weekly Email: Q1 Homestretch, Sled Hockey Champion & Upcoming Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-q1-homestretch-sled-hockey-champion-upcoming-events/) - Dear TA Families, Quarter 1 Homestretch Next Friday, October 25, is the last day of 1st quarter. This is an important time for students to take stock of their progress in their classes thus far, revise work they want to improve upon, and prepare for final assessments and assignments due next week. In a recent weekly email (Sept. - [Rachel Carson's "A Sense of Wonder" Inspires Student Writing](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/rachel-carsons-a-sense-of-wonder-inspires-student-writing/) - Thetford Academy's half-day environmental studies and outdoor education course attracts students who want to take their learning beyond the classroom. The course, which meets for two full blocks each afternoon, is taught almost entirely outdoors. Utilizing TA's 295-acre campus and the adjacent Thetford Hill State Forest, students learn by doing - and by reading and - [Head of School Weekly Email: October News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-october-news-2/) - Featured photo this week: Cider pressing! Dear TA Families, The first Saturday of October is upon us, and it's time for the famous Woods Trail Run! Everyone is invited to this community event, 10am-4pm, on the TA campus. Come cheer on the 2000+ runners from all over New England who come to race on our beautiful - [TA to Host "Haunted Harvest" Robotics Tournament](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/ta-to-host-haunted-harvest-robotics-tournament/) - On Saturday, Nov. 2, for the first time in over ten years, Thetford Academy will host a robotics competition! About 30 VEX robot teams from VT and NH will converge on Anderson Hall at TA to play this year's game, "High Stakes." TA's team 4886, consisting of about 18 students in grades 7-11, will be - [Head of School Weekly Email: Featuring Clubs, Colleges & Robotics](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-featuring-clubs-colleges-robotics/) - Dear TA Families, My email this week features some of the many opportunities we offer for our middle school and high school students. We want to encourage them to make the most of their time here at TA and also support their exploration of what lies ahead. Clubs, Office Hours & Power Hour Our daily schedule at - [Head of School Weekly Email: Student Opportunities, Back to School Night & Tonight's Circus!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-student-opportunities-back-to-school-night-tonights-circus/) - Dear TA Families, Here are highlights for week 2 ... Beyond the Classroom: Student Opportunities to Get Involved The start of every new school year brings with it lots of new opportunities - ways for students to stretch themselves, explore areas of interest, meet new people, practice leadership, and get involved! Here are some of the opportunities - [Counseling Office and Dartmouth Financial Aid Office Team Up for CSS Profile Workshop](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/counseling-office-and-dartmouth-financial-aid-office-team-up-for-css-profile-workshop/) - On Monday, October 21st from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the library, Thetford Academy's Counseling Office will host a CSS profile workshop. The CSS profile is an online application used and required by a number of colleges and scholarship programs to award non-federal institutional aid. It is an important - and sometimes cumbersome - piece of - [33rd Annual Woods Trail Run Brings Thousands to Thetford](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/33rd-annual-woods-trail-run-brings-thousands-to-thetford/) - On Saturday, Thetford Academy once again welcomed thousands of runners and spectators from across New England for the Woods Trail Run, the school's iconic cross country event. This year's run attracted more than 50 cross country teams from across New England, with representation from Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Maine, and New York. In - [Head of School Weekly Email: Mid-Quarter Progress, Welcome Dance & Weekend Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-mid-quarter-progress-welcome-dance-weekend-events/) - Thetford Academy varsity boys take on Lake Region on September 23, 2024. Photo by Lizzie Brown Dear TA Families, Earlier this week we passed the midway mark for Quarter 1. Hard to believe we are already 4+ weeks into the school year! I hope your student is into the flow of the semester and feeling - [Proficiency-based Grading: A New Way to Think About Skills, Progress, and Grades](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/proficiency-based-grading-a-new-way-to-think-about-skills-progress-and-grades/) - As we transition to a new student information system and grading platform, some of our TA educators are using the opportunity to shift how they track and report student progress in their classes – in other words, how they grade. One important new capability for us in Alma is the option to use proficiency-based grading. - [Help Us Spread the Word! Admissions Open House Scheduled for Oct. 20, 2024](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/10/help-us-spread-the-word-admissions-open-house-scheduled-for-oct-20-2024/) - Help us spread the word! Thetford Academy is excited to welcome prospective students and families to campus for its fall Admissions Open House on Sunday, October 20 at 2:00 p.m. Thetford Academy's Admissions Open House is geared toward students entering grades 7-12 in Fall 2025 and is a great way for families to learn how - [Head of School Weekly Email: First Week!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/head-of-school-weekly-email-first-week-2/) - Dear TA Families, As we wrap up our first week of school, I want to share my gratitude to everyone for a smooth start to the year! The glorious weather was a helpful addition, too. Today's email covers the gamut from the mundane to the worldly, so read on - and please reach out to - [Mountain Day 2024 - Photo Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/mountain-day-2024-photo-gallery/) - On Friday, we experienced a fantastic day of hiking, relishing the beauty of nature alongside our classmates and colleagues as each class made their way up the nearby mountains visible from the White Building's steps. Despite the fog obstructing the views on some peaks, the weather was excellent and made for a comfortable day on - [HOS Weekly Email: Mountain Day & More!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/hos-weekly-email-mountain-day-more/) - Mountain Day! Yesterday the whole school ventured out to six trailheads in our region, stretching from Mt. Moosilauke in the north to Mt. Ascutney in the south, carrying on TA's Mountain Day tradition, first started in 1979. It was a beautiful day to enjoy autumn beauty and connect as a community. The hikes aren't easy, and - [Panthers Make Big Strides at Manchester Invitational](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/panthers-make-strides-at-manchester-invitational/) - TA's cross country team ran at the Manchester Invitational this past Saturday. Captains Ava Hayden and Brady Sloop led their teams with top 10 finishes in their respective races. Ava finished 5th (out of 219 racers), covering the 5K course for Varsity Small Schools in 20:34. On the boys side, Brady was 9th out of - [Soccer Season Kicks Off for the Panthers](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/soccer-season-kicks-off-for-the-panthers/) - The varsity boys opened their season with a four-game winning streak - two of them shutouts - and are showing no signs of slowing down. With what the Journal Opinion called the Panthers’ “high-powered offense” (great photos in last week’s edition) and sophomore Matthew McGovern guarding the net, the boys have been scoring well - - [Robotics Students Compete at Maine's "Lobstah Bowl" Event](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/robotics-students-compete-at-maines-lobstah-bowl-event/) - Last week, Thetford Academy’s VEX robotics team 4886 S - Connor Kutter-Walker '26 and Duncan MacPhee '27- headed to Maine to compete in the state’s first-ever VEX V5 Signature Event. The Robotics Education and Competition Foundation describes these Signature events as “an amped-up version of tournament play,” designed to give students the opportunity to play - [Counseling Office to Host College Info Night for Seniors Sept. 26](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/counseling-office-to-host-college-info-night-for-seniors-sept-26/) - On Thursday at 6pm, TA's Counseling team will host a virtual information night for seniors (and their families) thinking about college or planning to apply to college this fall. The event is designed to provide an overview of the college application process and offer resources and tips for success. Topics will include: how to navigate - [Head of School Weekly Email: Learning Out & About (and Alma!)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-learning-out-about-and-alma/) - Dear Families, Let me start with one nuts and bolts item and then get to the fun stuff. If you haven't registered yet in our new student information system, Alma, please take time to do so this weekend. We hope you will find it to be a very user-friendly program. Here is a link to a parent guide - [TA's Woods Trail Run Returns on Oct. 5, Volunteers Needed](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/tas-woods-trail-run-returns-on-oct-5-volunteers-needed/) - The event, founded by TA parent and former board member Dan Grossman, is well known for many things: great music, great food (shout out to the Thetford Academy Alumni Association), great energy, and great people. Of course, the Woods Trail Run is also known for its scenic 5K course, the Dan Grossman Woods Trail, designed - [Panthers Cross Country Season Off and Running](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/panthers-cross-country-off-and-running/) - The Panther harriers kicked off their season last Tuesday with a meet at Bellows Falls. Coaches Deffner and Silver were delighted to see 10 runners for the girls team toe the starting line and to see those same ten girls finish a rather challenging course. Having 12 girls on the team (two did not race) - [New Employees Join the TA Team](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/new-employees-join-the-ta-team/) - Pictured Left to Right: Gretchen Czaja, Zsuzsa Mitro, Maria Rodis, John Leavey, Nick Pasterino, & Stacy Anderson (Not pictured: Sayer Wickham & Nancy McNally) We are thrilled to welcome the latest additions to our exceptional team of TA educators. Each individual brings a wealth of knowledge in their respective areas, enthusiasm for teaching and learning, - [Thetford Academy to Host Flynn Theater's Playing Fields Project](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/09/thetford-academy-to-host-flynn-theaters-playing-fields-project/) - Thetford Academy is excited to join forces with the Flynn Theater to host The Playing Fields Project, a back-to-school celebration that travels to school districts around Vermont. The project invites communities to gather together for joyful and awe-inspiring performances on school fields. Everyone is invited to join the fun! The event at TA will feature - [Growing Food and Community in the TA Garden](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/growing-food-and-community-in-the-ta-garden/) - TA recently concluded this summer's “Tuesdays in the TA Garden,” a series of volunteer work parties designed to grow both food and community in the school garden. Each week since July 9, Thetford Academy's garden coordinator Ehrin Lingeman and her student interns have welcomed TA families and community members into the garden to support the - [Jennifer Gernhard Honored with 2024 Dedicated Employee Award](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/jennifer-gernhard-honored-with-2024-dedicated-employee-award/) - Culinary arts teacher Jennifer Gernhard was honored in June with the Peters Family Dedicated Employee Award, as she completed her 26th school year at Thetford Academy! When Head of School Carrie Brennan made the announcement during Class Day, the whole audience - led by the senior class in cap and gown - rose to a - [TA Goes Phone-Free in 2024-25](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/ta-goes-phone-free-in-2024-25/) - Thetford Academy will become a phone-free environment for students this year. This is a bold step towards fostering a healthier learning community by taking collective action to give students a respite from phone use during the school day. Head of School Carrie Brennan sent a letter to families on July 23 to share the news. - [New Year, New Tools: TA Adopts New Student Information System](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/new-year-new-tools-ta-adopts-new-student-information-system/) - With the start of each new school year, there are always exciting changes. Students will meet new teachers, make new friends, and – most importantly – learn new things! In addition to these exciting new experiences, some important changes also happen behind the scenes. This year we are transitioning from Web2School to a new software - [Back to School Picnic for TA Students and Families](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/back-to-school-picnic-for-ta-students-and-families/) - Thetford Academy is looking forward to hosting students and families for two community events on August 25: a new student welcome and TA’s annual back to school picnic. Beginning at 4:00 p.m., TA invites all new, incoming students to campus for a fun opportunity to get comfortable before the first day of school. New students - [Back-to-School Mailing for Families](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/back-to-school-mailing-for-families/) - The start of the 2024-2025 school year is just a couple of weeks away, and we are gearing up to welcome students and faculty back to campus! We sent a back-to-school packet home to new and returning students last week. Current TA families: If you have not received the packet yet, please reach out to - [Joel Breakstone and Emily Silver Named 2024 Boys' High School Track and Field Coaches of the Year](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/joel-breakstone-and-emily-silver-named-2024-boys-high-school-track-and-field-coaches-of-the-year/) - In July, Joel Breakstone and Emily Silver, TA's track and field teams' longstanding coaches, were named by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association as the 2024 Boys' High School Track & Field Coaches of the Year for the state of Vermont. The honor, according to the USTFCCCA "is based on [the - [What’s Going On in the Annex?](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/whats-going-on-in-the-annex/) - If you’ve been around campus this summer, you might have noticed construction vehicles in the south parking lot and wondered - what’s going on in the annex?! We are pleased to announce that the annex classroom wing will finally be wheelchair accessible, starting this school year. Built in 1966, the two-story annex added much-needed space - [TA's "Panther Pride" Disc Golf Course Ready to Play](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/tas-panther-pride-disc-golf-course-ready-to-play/) - Thetford Academy's new Panther Pride disc golf course is open to the public and ready for play! For those new to the sport, disc golf is played much like golf. Instead of a ball and clubs though, players throw a flying disc into chain baskets located throughout the course. The sport was formalized in the 1970s - [SAT AUG 10: Schoolhouse Rocks Presents the Western Terrestrials](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/08/sat-aug-10-schoolhouse-rocks-presents-the-western-terrestrials/) - This Saturday, August 10, from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., TA's Schoolhouse Rocks Summer Concert Series continues with its second show of the season featuring local legends the Western Terrestrials. Fronted by Thetford Academy alum Nick Charyk ’04, the "hard-driving outsiders from Vermont" conjure up “sweeping panoramas of dusty astral plains and the allure of - [Help TA to the Finish Line! Make Your Gift Before June 30](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/help-ta-to-the-finish-line-make-your-gift-before-june-30/) - We're almost to the finish line of another year at Thetford Academy! The last day of TA's fiscal year is June 30, 2024 and we are so close to our annual fund goal of $100,000. To the nearly 200 community members who have already made their gift to TA, thank you. And if you have - [TA's Joe Deffner Talks with Educator and Author Ken Cadow in Image's Summer Issue](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/tas-joe-deffner-talks-with-educator-and-author-ken-cadow-in-images-summer-issue/) - Longtime Thetford Academy English teacher Joe Deffner recently sat down with his former colleague, author and educator Ken Cadow. Cadow's first novel, Gather, released last fall, was a finalist for the prestigious National Book Award for Young People's Literature. Deffner and Cadow overlapped as Thetford Academy English teachers over a decade ago, forming a friendship - [What Are You Reading This Summer? TA Teachers Share Their Picks](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/what-are-you-reading-this-summer-ta-teachers-share-their-picks/) - In the spirit of continuous growth, learning, and for the simple joy of reading on a summer afternoon, Thetford Academy's faculty members almost always have a book in progress over the summer break. What are they reading this year? The list below reflects the breadth of our teachers' interests and learning goals, pulling from the - [Burlington's "Good Gravy" Opens Summer Concert Series at TA on Sunday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/burlingtons-good-gravy-opens-summer-concert-series-at-ta-this-sunday/) - Thetford Academy's Schoolhouse Rocks summer concert series opens its second season this Sunday with a performance from Burlington's bluegrass greats Good Gravy. Good Gravy members Joe Agnello, Jeff Wilson, and Jack Vignone pay homage to bluegrass legends Tony Rice, Norman Blake, and Doc Watson - a show you won't want to miss. Join us for - [Congratulations to the Class of 2024, TA's Newest Graduates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/congratulations-to-the-class-of-2024-tas-newest-graduates/) - On Friday, June 14, Thetford Academy celebrated its 205th commencement ceremony honoring the graduating Class of 2024. After a long week of dismal weather forecasts for the event, the predicted rain suddenly disappeared from the forecast, replaced by a perfect evening for an outdoor celebration. With the mountains providing an unbeatable backdrop, the Class of - [Head of School Weekly Email: Final Notes for 2023-24](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/head-of-school-weekly-email-final-notes-for-2023-24/) - Dear TA Families, I'm sending my final weekly email of the year. Thanks for reading along with me and staying connected to school happenings these past 10 months! Congratulations to the Class of 2024! We had three special send-off events for the seniors last week: Baccalaureate with families on Sunday evening, Class Day on Friday morning with - [Students Wrap Up Semester with Culminating Projects](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/students-wrap-up-semester-with-culminating-projects/) - As the year draws to a close, Thetford Academy's teachers continue to design rich learning experiences for students. Culminating projects are designed to bring together the ideas, information, and skills students have learned over the course of the semester and put that learning into practice. For example, in Scott Ellis’s Environmental Studies and Outdoor Education - [Head of School Weekly Email: Balancing the Silly and the Serious](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/head-of-school-weekly-email-balancing-the-silly-and-the-serious/) - Dear TA Families, The end of the school year is a big balancing act between celebration and rigor, and sometimes the silly and the serious. We had our fair share of silly today, as we arrived at school this morning and found the quad crowded with tents and the interior of the white building blanketed in - [Thetford Academy's Summer Concert Series "Schoolhouse Rocks" is Back for Another Year!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/thetford-academys-summer-concert-series-schoolhouse-rocks-is-back-for-another-year/) - Join TA this summer for music, fun, and food! Thetford Academy is excited to announce a reprisal of our summer concert series, “Schoolhouse Rocks" for a second season. The series opens with the Burlington, VT based bluegrass band "Good Gravy" on Sunday, June 23 at 6 p.m. The trio (Joe Agnello, Jeff Wilson, and Jack - [Celebrating the Class of 2024 - Baccalaureate, Class Day, and Graduation](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/celebrating-the-class-of-2024-baccalaureate-class-day-and-graduation/) - It's time to celebrate! This week, TA's Class of 2024 is winding down their high school career with full days of classes before final exams. On Sunday, June 9, the class will commence celebrating their achievements with Thetford Academy's annual baccalaureate ceremony, hosted in the Martha Jane Rich Theater. The ceremony will include speeches from - [Head of School Weekly Email: Accolades & Activities Abound!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/head-of-school-weekly-email-accolades-activities-abound/) - Dear TA Families, So much is happening as we come roaring into the final stretch of the school year. Here are a few features from this past week - it might have been a short one, but it was packed with activity! Accolades in the Arts On Wednesday evening the arts department hosted the annual - [Champions! Panther Boys Secure State Title in Track and Field, Girls Earn Third](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/06/champions-panther-boys-secure-state-title-in-track-and-field-girls-earn-third/) - Guest post by Track and Field coach Joel Breakstone The TA track and field teams had great performances at the Division 3 State Championships in Fair Haven on May 30. The girls finished third, just behind Woodstock and White River, and the boys were state champions. It's the fifth championship in a row for the boys - [Head of School Weekly Email: Featuring 5 Events & Deadlines Next Week](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-featuring-5-events-deadlines-next-week/) - Dear TA Families, We wrapped up Student Appreciation Week on Friday afternoon with a Panther Party. It was the perfect weather for outdoor activities, including a cookout lunch, volleyball on the quad, an epic hopscotch obstacle course, disc golf on the new course, good old four-square, a cotton candy station, and a huge water slide. - [Panthers Sliding into Playoff Season in Strong Position](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/panthers-sliding-into-playoff-season-in-strong-position/) - The Panthers have had a great ball season this year, with both the softball and baseball teams shining on the diamond. Panthers baseball is wrapping up its regular season at home tonight (vs. North Country), sending off lone senior Justin Robinson. The team is 10-5 for the season after turning around a three loss streak - [TA Drama Presents Free Children's Theatre Festival This Weekend](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/ta-drama-presents-free-childrens-theatre-festival-this-weekend/) - On Saturday, June 1 from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., the students of Thetford Academy's One Act Play class will present the Thetford Children’s Theatre Festival. The event is free of charge. Students in the TA One Act Play class will perform “staged readings” of short plays that have been adapted from children’s books. In addition to - [Celebrate the Arts at TA's Spring Concert and Arts Expo on May 29](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/celebrate-the-arts-at-tas-spring-concert-and-arts-expo-on-may-29/) - Thetford Academy's student artists - musicians, chorale performers, photographers, painters, designers, chefs, and more - will come together next week to showcase their work to the community and celebrate the arts at TA. Next Wednesday, May 29th, join us for our Spring Concert and Arts Expo - an exciting evening of performance, art exhibits, and - [TA Awarded VT Farm to School Capacity Building Grant](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/ta-awarded-vt-farm-to-school-capacity-building-grant/) - Thetford Academy is proud to be a recipient of a $15,000 capacity building grant from the Vermont Farm to School program. The grant program, open to schools and early childhood centers across the state, aims to "to help schools...develop and expand farm to school programs that will foster relationships with local farmers and producers, enrich - [Head of School Weekly Email: Mid-May @ TA - Musical & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-mid-may-ta-musical-more/) - Dear TA Families, The 7th graders took us around the world with their culture fair on Tuesday, the Mamma Mia! cast will transport us to Greece this weekend, and Madame Heinzmann is gearing up to bring back an international trip to Europe next spring! France/Spain Trip Planning - April 2025 TA is traveling to Paris, - [TA's Operation Day's Work Supports Zimbabwean Orphanage](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/tas-operation-days-work-supports-zimbabwean-orphanage/) - A home for orphans in Zimbabwe called "The Forty-Two" was the focus of Thetford Academy's Operation Day's Work (ODW) this year. According to the American Foundation for Children with Aids (AFCA), the Forty-Two is the effort of a single mother named Gertrude who is providing safe haven for 42 orphaned Zimbabwean children. After a long - [We Did It! TA's Day of Giving a Success, Exceeds 100 Donor Goal](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/we-did-it-tas-day-of-giving-a-success-exceeds-100-donor-goal/) - An enormous thank you to the more than 100 donors who contributed to Thetford Academy during our Day of Giving campaign this year! With your help, we met the $25,000 participation challenge from the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation and brought nearly $50,000 to TA programs. As always, we are grateful for our TA family - [Head of School Weekly Email: Annual Survey, Day of Giving & Gratitude for Parent Involvement](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-annual-survey-day-of-giving-gratitude-for-parent-involvement/) - Dear TA Families, We have a lot of gratitude for the incredible parent efforts to make Teacher Appreciation Week a special one for all of us who work at TA - the teachers especially, and also the support staff and admin, all of us working together to support students and the school. The food and flowers and notes - [Day of Giving Challenge: 50 + 50 = $25,000 for TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/day-of-giving-challenge-50-50-25000-for-ta/) - Thetford Academy's Day of Giving is just one week away! On May 15, 2024, we'll will celebrate our 7th annual Day of Giving, exploring the deep roots and connections that have supported our students and programs for more than 200 years. We're excited to share stories from our alumni and friends about how TA has - [Head of School Weekly Email: Teacher Appreciation Week, ODW, Honors Celebration & Other May Updates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-teacher-appreciation-week-odw-honors-celebration-other-may-updates/) - Featured photo this week: Teeing up Teacher Appreciation Week, here is a fun shot of some TA educators enjoying after school club time in the greenhouse. Dear TA Families, Happy May! We came back from break to find the daffodils in bloom, the lunch tents back up, and afternoon temps in the 60s. Spring has arrived - [TA Drama Department Presents Mamma Mia, May 17-19](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/ta-drama-department-presents-mamma-mia-may-17-19/) - Thetford Academy is proud to present Mamma Mia, the iconic musical featuring the music of ABBA. Over sixty million people from around the globe have fallen in love with the characters, the enchanting story and ABBA’s timeless music which makes Mamma Mia! the ultimate feel-good show! This sunny, funny, international smash hit sensation unfolds on - [Eighth Grade Travels to Montreal in Return of TA Tradition](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/the-8th-grade-takes-on-montreal/) - The annual middle school trip is a longstanding TA tradition, designed to build class community and provide students hands-on learning experiences in new places. It's been a few years, though, since our students have had the opportunity to travel together. This year's eighth grade team was determined to bring the tradition back from its pandemic - [Space Available in TOP Summer Leadership Program - Register Today!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/top-summer-leadership-programming-still-available/) - Making summer plans? Good news, there is still time to register for a TOP Summer Leadership experience! Each summer, the Thetford Outdoor Program offers several opportunities for Thetford Academy students (and students from surrounding towns) to have immersive outdoor leadership adventures. This year, TOP is offering multi-day trips and camps including trail crew, garden camp, - [Let's Play Ball! Panthers Back on the Diamond](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/05/lets-play-ball-panthers-back-on-the-diamond/) - The Panthers have launched their baseball and softball seasons and are wasting no time getting down to business. The varsity boys baseball team, reigning Division III state champions, opened their season with five decisive wins - including an impressive shutout vs. Windsor - before their first loss vs. Blue Mountain (3-10) on Saturday. The varsity - [Head of School Weekly Email: We Made It! Spring Break News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-we-made-it-spring-break-news/) - Dear TA Families, We made it! Today's final bell at 2:55pm this afternoon marked the beginning of spring break. TA offices will be closed next week, April 22-26. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on April 29 for the final 7-week stretch of the school year! While we pause the academic schedule for the week, - [TA's Track and Field Teams Win Big at Windsor](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/tas-track-and-field-teams-win-big-at-windsor/) - Photo credit: Matthew Hayden Thetford Academy's track and field teams had a strong opening meet at Windsor on Tuesday. Both the boys and the girls beat out all 8 other schools to take home their first win of the season. Individual athletes also had some exceptional performances, earning several new additions to the school record - [Head of School Weekly Email: Roundtable Kudos to Students, Advisors & School Community](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-roundtable-kudos-to-students-advisors-school-community/) - Dear TA Families, Kudos to our whole school community for the many 'wins' we experienced today. Each grade level had their own agenda and version of the day, so check in with your student to get details about specific activities and personal highlights. A common theme across all the grades: Taking time out of our normal - [Alumni Association News: Donations to TA, Important Dates, Banner Bidding, and More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/alumni-association-news-taaa-donations-important-dates-banner-bidding-and-more/) - The Thetford Academy Alumni Association's spring newsletter is here! Learn more about how TAAA supports Thetford Academy through annual donations to academics, athletics, the arts, and more. By providing concessions for the Woods Trail Run and state cross country meets and other fundraising efforts, TAAA has been able to provide more than $10,000 to Thetford - [Q3 Report Card Mailing: Letter from the Head of School](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/q3-report-card-mailing-letter-from-the-head-of-school/) - The following letter accompanied students' report cards, which were distributed on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. Dear Thetford Academy Parents and Caregivers, Here on Thetford Hill, the daffodils are waiting patiently for the last of the snow patches to melt before bursting into bloom. While we wait for the weather and flowers to indicate spring has - [Update from TA's Garden - Growing Season Begins!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/update-from-tas-garden-growing-season-begins/) - Despite last week's 16-inch snowfall, spring has officially arrived at TA and garden activities have begun! Beginning in mid-February, when the day length reached over 10 hours, plants began waking up from their winter slumber and began to grow again. The longer days provide enough natural light for most seeds to germinate and grow - - [Portfolios & Roundtables: Students Reflect on Their Learning and Growth](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/portfolios-roundtables-students-reflect-on-their-learning-and-growth/) - Students have so many experiences over the course of their years at TA – internships, sports, clubs, challenging courses, theater, music, outdoor activities – it’s easy to believe that these experiences alone are enough to foster learning and growth. In Outward Bound’s early days, instructor Rusty Baille famously agreed: “Let the mountains speak for themselves.” But - [Learn to Mountain Bike this Summer with Little Bellas UV](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/learn-to-mountain-bike-this-summer-with-the-little-bellas-uv/) - Thetford Academy is excited to share a unique opportunity for girls ages 12-15 who are interested in mountain biking and having fun outdoors. Little Bellas UV, a non-competitive mountain biking program, uses a mentoring model to help girls find a sense of empowerment and self-confidence. While interacting with positive mentors, conquering obstacles, and mastering a - [Head of School Weekly Email: 7th Graders Prepare for Planting, Seniors Prepare for Roundtables, Eclipse Invitation & Other Spring News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-7th-graders-prepare-for-planting-seniors-prepare-for-roundtables-eclipse-invitation-other-spring-news/) - Dear TA Families, Snow? What snow? Here at TA, we are getting ready for spring! Student Learning Spotlight In a full circle seasonal experience, the 7th graders spent time in the warmth of the greenhouse this week, cleaning and sorting seeds from crops they harvested last fall, such as corn and squash native to the New - [Head of School Weekly Email: Summer Opportunities, River Bend Spotlight & April Dates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-summer-opportunities-river-bend-spotlight-april-dates/) - Dear TA Families, As we experience the fickle start to spring in New England, it can be a good time to start planning ahead for summer. Our horticulture students are definitely doing just that, busily tending to their starts in the greenhouse. Summer is an awesome time of growth for our gardens - and can also - [TA's Climate Alliance Attends Youth Climate Leadership Academy](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/tas-climate-alliance-attends-youth-climate-leadership-academy/) - This year, student led TA Climate Alliance (TACA) is on a mission to implement projects that address climate change issues here on campus and in our own community. Last weekend, 5 students attended the Youth Climate Leadership Academy Kick-Off Retreat, hosted by NH/VEEP along with 10 similarly motivated groups of students from schools across NH - [High School Debate Team Earns Accolades at State Tournament](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/high-school-debate-team-earns-accolades-at-state-tournament/) - Thetford Academy's high school debate team had an exciting day at the Vermont State Tournament on Sunday. The event, briefly delayed due to the region's spring snowstorm, was hosted at St. Michael's College in Burlington, VT and featured seven different schools from across the region. The delay was just the first wrench thrown by the - ['Getting to Y' Students Lead Community Dialogue](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/getting-to-y-students-lead-community-dialogue/) - Guest post by Getting to Y team member Margaret Smallwood '24 – TA students on the 'Getting to Y' team facilitated a Community Dialogue on March 21, with parents, peers, and siblings in attendance. Getting to Y is a leadership club focused on public health data, issues, and solutions. Team members focus on data in - [Head of School Weekly Email: Snowy Saturday Edition](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-snowy-saturday-edition/) - Dear TA Families, What can we say about March in Vermont? It's nothing if not unpredictable! I'm sending out a shorter message to our community today, highlighting a few weather-related schedule changes and other upcoming calendar reminders. Event updates: The One Act Regional Festival, taking place at Thetford Academy, has been rescheduled for tomorrow, Sunday, - [Thetford Academy to Present One Act Play "A Wind in the Door"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/thetford-academy-to-present-one-act-play-a-wind-in-the-door/) - The Thetford Academy Drama Department will present the one act play, A Wind in the Door, adapted by Peter Royston from the novel by Madeleine L'Engle, on March 15 and 16, 2024. This production is part of the Vermont State Drama Council’s annual One Act Festival, a celebration of theatre and friendly competition that brings - [Indigenous Land Acknowledgment: A Community Conversation at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/indigenous-land-acknowledgment-a-community-conversation-at-ta/) - **UPDATE: Due to the upcoming winter storm, this event has been rescheduled to Thursday, March 28, 2024 from 3:30-5pm.** Next week, Thetford Academy will host the second of three "community conversations" on the topic of indigenous land acknowledgment. We are excited to welcome Nathan Pero, Thetford resident and Chief of the Koasek band of Abenaki, - [Take to the Trails for Maple Leaf Children's Center](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/take-to-the-trails-for-maple-leaf-childrens-center/) - Mark your calendars for fun, family friendly event hosted by Maple Leaf Children's Center at Thetford Academy! On Sunday, May 19, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Maple Leaf will host 5K and Kids Field Day on the Dan Grossman Woods Trail and Thetford Academy athletic fields. With a food truck, a raffle, fun - [Head of School Weekly Email: Busy Morning Featuring Portfolio Progress, Arts Assembly & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-busy-morning-featuring-portfolio-progress-arts-assembly-more/) - Dear TA Families, Re-Cap: Half-Day on Friday As I described in my message earlier this week, there are times in the school year when we need to 'take care of business' beyond the normal routine of classes, and that was our approach today. We designed the morning to create time for a range of activities as a - [Sugaring Season in Full Swing at TA](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/sugaring-season-in-full-swing-at-ta/) - An early spring means Thetford Academy's sugaring season is in full swing this week! Though the boiling started just recently, students in TA's half-day environmental studies and outdoor education course have been preparing since mid-February. In class, they have been learning about the history, science, and mechanics of this important Vermont tradition and each was - [Head of School Weekly Email: Early Spring Kudos, Opportunities & Invitations to Share](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-early-spring-kudos-opportunities-invitations-to-share/) - Dear TA Families, Spring is teasing us a bit early today, and a few classes took their lessons outside this afternoon to enjoy the sunshine and breezy, moderate temps. Starting to Look Ahead to Fall It's that time of year in schools when we start to have a dual focus - staying knee-deep and focused - [Alpine Ski Team Competes at States, Wraps Season](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/alpine-ski-team-competes-at-states-wraps-season/) - Guest post from Alpine Ski Coach Paul Dixon We had an action packed end of the season with virtually back to back races with the Southern District Championship at Bromley on Friday the 1st. The event carried a bit less weight and stress this year as all of the schools and independent athletes would automatically qualify for the State - [Division III State Champions! Thetford Boys Top Hazen in Title Game](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/division-iii-state-champions-thetford-boys-top-hazen-in-title-game/) - Congratulations to our varsity boys basketball team, Thetford Academy's newest state champions! Thetford Academy topped rival Hazen in a exciting, hard-fought game in the Barre Auditorium this weekend. The Panthers were down by 10 at the start of the third quarter before making a gritty comeback that had fans on the edge of their seats. - [Thank You, Thetford Voters!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/03/thank-you-thetford-voters/) - The school meeting portion of Thetford's Town Meeting Day on March 2 drew a larger-than-usual crowd this year. By 9am, most of the chairs on the gym floor were occupied and the bleachers above were filling up. This was not a surprise, due to the many questions swirling in our community and regional media - - [Head of School Weekly Email: Black History Month, Robotics Champions, Playoff Fever & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-black-history-month-robotics-champions-playoff-fever-more/) - Dear TA Families, It's been a jam-packed February. Here are a few highlights from this past week. Black History Month Panel: "Spread love, no matter the color." Yesterday morning students attended an assembly for Black History Month featuring two Black artists and entrepreneurs, moderated by DEI coordinator Tony Strat-Cortez and student reps from SARJ (Student Alliance - [TA Junior is Top Ranked Sled Hockey Athlete](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/ta-junior-is-top-ranked-sled-hockey-athlete/) - TA junior Caleb Crossett is about as active as they come. Of the few fond memories I have of “CovidPodLife 2021”, one that stands out to me is the memory of Caleb and former Science teacher Len Whitaker passing a hockey puck any chance they could get. It came as no surprise, then, to learn - [TA Wins Big at VT/NH VEX Robotics Championship, Earns Spots at Worlds](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/ta-wins-big-at-vt-nh-vex-robotics-championship-earns-spots-at-worlds/) - Guest post from TA robotics coach Leif LaWhite The NH/VT 2024 VEX robotics state championship tournament is in the books. And once again, tiny TA wrote the book. The meet was held at Manchester Community College, an hour an a half from TA, so it was another 6:30 a.m. departure for our roboteurs and their family fan - [TA Presents at Town Meeting, School Budget Passes](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/ta-presents-at-town-meeting-school-budget-passes/) - The first part of Thetford's Town Meeting, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday, featured a school budget informational meeting. Thetford Academy Head of School Carrie Brennan and Donna Steinberg, chair of the the TA Board of Trustees, presented, alongside TES principal Bernice Mills and the president of the Thetford School Board, Julie Acker. - [Alpine Skiers Slide into the End of Season Strong and Confident](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/alpine-skiers-slide-into-the-end-of-season-strong-and-confident/) - Guest post from TA Alpine Ski Coach Paul DixonThe Thetford Academy Alpine team is heading into the end of the season and hitting their stride after a delayed start to the season. We are seeing so many breakout performances from athletes across both the Ladies and Men's teams. Many are seeing this reflected in the race results and - [Head of School Weekly Email: Advice from College Admissions Officers & Other Updates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-advice-from-college-admissions-officers-other-updates/) - Dear TA Families, I attended the college information session for juniors and their families on Monday night and wanted to share some takeaways. The event, hosted by the TA Counseling Department, featured admissions officers from six regional colleges and offered important information and insights that any parent of a student in secondary school might find useful - - [Panthers Wrap Up Regular Season and Shoot for the Aud](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/regular-season-wrapping-up-playoffs-begin-next-week/) - The Panthers celebrate graduating senior Mitchell Parkman at Senior Night this week. Thetford Academy's varsity boys played their last home game of the regular season on Wednesday night. Before the game, the Panthers celebrated their lone senior Mitchell Parkman, who has been an important part of the team's successful season. The boys' 73-39 win vs. - [Teaching Students to Have "Good Arguments" Through Debate](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/teaching-students-to-have-good-arguments-through-debate/) - Many people visualize debate as contests between loud, dominating players, pushing their own point of view. I used to visualize this myself. But as Bo Seo, former coach of the Harvard College Debating Union, writes in his book, Good Arguments: “...there has never been a better time to debate. The public square is more diverse, - [Head of School Weekly Email: February News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-february-news-2/) - Dear TA Families, 3rd Quarter Momentum This week we bounced back from all of the Founders' Day fun and jumped back into the flow of 3rd quarter. The sunny days kept our energy up and weather disruptions to the school schedule at bay. This is an important stretch in the academic calendar, especially for high - [Founders' Day 2024 - Photo Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/founders-day-2024-photo-gallery/) - On Friday, February 2, the Thetford Academy school community celebrated the school's 205th birthday with our annual Founders' Day event. Photos include the grade level committees busily working during their prep time on Wednesday and Thursday, as well as event activities on Friday. This year's Founders' Day theme was board games. You'll see plenty of - [Class of 2028 Heads to Hulbert for Overnight Adventure](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/class-of-2028-heads-to-hulbert-for-overnight-adventure/) - It was a cold January morning when the Class of 2028 arrived at TA with stuffed backpacks, snow pants, and gear - some nervous, some excited, all curious. They would soon board the waiting school bus and depart to the Hulbert Outdoor Center in Fairlee, VT, just 20 minutes away, for their first Thetford Academy - [TA Hosts 15th Annual Poetry Out Loud Contest, Mary Bosco '24 Earns VT Semifinals Spot](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/ta-hosts-15th-annual-poetry-out-loud-contest-mary-bosco-24-hea/) - Thetford Academy hosted its 15th annual Poetry Out Loud recitation contest in the Martha Jane Rich Theater on Monday, with performances from 14 talented TA students – the largest group of participants yet! Poetry Out Loud, "a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry" has become a TA tradition, and is a staple - [Head of School Weekly Email: News for the New Year](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-news-for-the-new-year/) - Dear TA Families, Early January is a busy time of transition, as we return from holiday break and immerse ourselves back into classes for the final stretch of the semester. Students are working on culminating projects, essays, performances, exams, and reflections. This is an especially intense period for high school students, whose current roster of classes comes to an - [Counseling Office to Host College Information Sessions](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/counseling-office-to-host-college-information-sessions/) - Thetford Academy's Counseling Office will host a series of information sessions this winter to introduce current juniors and their families to the college choice and application process. The first of these sessions, scheduled for January 22, 2024 at 6 p.m. (virtual meeting), will provide an introductory overview to the college application process and tips and - [Head of School Weekly Email: Pausing Routines & Making Time](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-pausing-routines-making-time/) - Dear TA Families, Re-Cap: Half-Day on Friday As I shared with students yesterday, we designed the December half day to pause our daily routines and create time for a range of 'big picture' activities, together as a school community - in our small group advisories, as a whole school of 300+, and with our grade-level - [Head of School Weekly Email: Founders' Day Recap & Photo Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-founders-day-recap-photo-gallery/) - Dear TA Families, We had a wonderful Founders' Day celebration today. Thank you to all of the students for their incredible spirit these past few days. What an intensity of activity and creativity to bring all of their projects to fruition in such a short period of time! Enjoy this preliminary photo gallery. We will add - [Head of School Weekly Email: 9th Grade Retreat, Homecoming & Other School News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-9th-grade-retreat-homecoming-other-school-news/) - Dear TA Families, Today was a special day for our new high schoolers - the Class of 2027 - as they all participated in our annual 9th grade retreat. Fortunately, it was a beautiful autumn day (no rain!). Students spent the day outdoors on the TA south campus connecting as a class in a variety of - [Indoor Track Athletes Shine at State Meet, Boys Earn 2nd in Div. II](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/02/indoor-track-athletes-shine-at-state-meet-boys-earn-2nd-in-div-ii/) - Photo credit: Matthew Hayden The Panthers had a stellar day at the VT High School Indoor Track Championships on Saturday - slaying school records, earning PRs, and punching a whole bunch of tickets to New Englands. The day-long competition, hosted by the University of Vermont, featured some memorable Panther performances. On the boys side, junior - [Head of School Weekly Email: Venturing Out (and Coming Home), Report Cards, and the (Darn) Weather](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-venturing-out-and-coming-home-report-cards-and-the-darn-weather/) - Dear TA Families, The 8th graders reminded us this week of the power of venturing out to explore new places and try new experiences. The Class of 2028, with a team of TA teacher-advisors, spent Monday and Tuesday at the Aloha Foundation's Hulbert Outdoor Center in Fairlee. This was an awesome opportunity for individual growth and community building. - [Q2 Report Card Mailing: Letter from the Head of School](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/q2-report-card-mailing-letter-from-the-head-of-school-2/) - The following letter accompanied students' report cards, which were distributed on Tuesday, January 23, 2024. Dear Thetford Academy Parents and Caregivers, Enclosed you will find your student’s first semester report card as well as a brochure about the TOP summer outdoor leadership program. Junior families will also find information from the counseling department about the - [Panthers Play Hard, Ski Hard as Season Progresses](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/panthers-play-hard-ski-hard-as-season-progresses/) - With a slow, snow-less start to the season, TA's alpine ski team had mostly dryland training on their practice schedule before last week's first race. Coach Paul Dixon shared that the lack of on-snow training led to some jitters, and that he'd "be lying if I said that nobody had butterflies in their stomach before the - [Head of School Weekly Email: Awesome Opportunities - Winter, Spring & Summer](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-awesome-opportunities-winter-spring-summer/) - Dear TA Families, The start of the new year can be a good time to set new intentions and goals, and consider opportunities to pursue. This week's email features extracurricular programs for middle school and high school students in the upcoming seasons, including a winter circus camp coming right up over February break, spring sports - [Indoor Track Teams Compete at States; Girls Earn 2nd in Division II](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/indoor-track-teams-compete-at-states-girls-earn-2nd-in-division-ii/) - Thetford Academy's indoor track team had an outstanding day at the state championship meet at UVM on Saturday, February 4th. Competing in the D-II classification against 18 other schools (almost all of which are much larger), the Panther girls rolled to a second-place finish and the boys finished third. The girls 4 x 800 relay - [Panther Athletics Has Much to Celebrate in the New Year](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/panther-athletics-has-much-to-celebrate-in-the-new-year/) - Photo credit: John Foster Thetford Academy’s athletes are ringing in the new year with exciting early season successes. Both the varsity girls and boys basketball teams are deep into win streaks, with the girls 5-1 for the season (their only loss on the books was to championship rival Windsor in December), and the boys undefeated - [TA Robotics: String Theory Team On Top!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/ta-robotics-string-theory-team-on-top/) - TA robotics is having another good year, with competitive middle school and high school teams earning accolades at VT/NH meets. The recent competition in Belmont, New Hampshire on Jan. 13 featured an exceptional performance by one of the TA groups. The team known as ‘String Theory 4886S’, including Aden Perry ‘24, Connor Kutter-Walker ‘26, and - [TA Artists to Exhibit at AVA Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/ta-artists-to-exhibit-at-ava-gallery/) - TA will once again have a full line-up of work on display in AVA Gallery’s high school exhibition. The 16th annual youth art show will be presenting works of art created by regional high school students who have been nominated by their art teachers. The directive from AVA to Upper Valley arts faculty is to - [Students Reflect on a Semester of Deeper Learning](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/students-reflect-on-a-semester-of-deeper-learning/) - "We do not learn from experience... we learn from reflecting on experience," ~ John Dewey It’s January, and although teachers and students alike are eagerly anticipating the change of the semester and all it promises (new classes, new classmates, clean slates), Final Exam and Projects week is an exciting time of reflection and deeper learning - [Head of School Weekly Email: High Stakes + High Engagement = Meaningful Assessments](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-high-stakes-high-engagement-meaningful-assessments/) - Dear TA Families, What do we mean when we describe something as 'high stakes' in an education setting? Usually the phrase is associated with various kinds of testing, such as required state assessments, a heavily-weighted course final, or college entrance exams - the outcomes of which can have a major impact on a student's future - [Special Education Director to Retire After 41 Years Serving Students](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/special-education-director-to-retire-after-41-years-serving-students/) - Photo credit: Dan Grossman. Deb Sanders-Dame (right) and Molly Dugan-Sullivan volunteer at the Woods Trail Run registration table. After serving students for more than four decades, Thetford Academy's Director of Special Education Services, Dr. Deb Sanders-Dame, will retire at the end of the 2023-2024 school year. Sanders-Dame, also known as 'Dr. Deb,' came to TA - [Author and Former TA Teacher Ken Cadow Visits English Class](https://thetfordacademy.org/2024/01/author-and-former-ta-teacher-ken-cadow-visits-english-composition-class-students-reflect/) - Photo Credit: Alison Novak, et al. “From a Cabin in Norwich, School Principal Ken Cadow Wrote a Young Adult Novel Set in Vermont That's Up for a National Book Award.” Seven Days, 14 November 2023. Accessed Jan. 5, 2024. The following reflection was written by TA English Composition students Spencer Durkee, Layne Mullen, and Matthew - [Head of School Weekly Email: Holiday Greetings (& Looking Ahead to January)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-holiday-greetings-looking-ahead-to-january/) - Dear TA Families, And 2023 is a wrap! We had a full day of classes yesterday, with some holiday fun in advisory thrown in, and today begins a well-deserved vacation for students and staff. The Thetford Academy offices will be closed from today through January 1, and we look forward to resuming school in the new year on - [Head of School Weekly Email: Real World Learning](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-real-world-learning/) - Dear TA Families, Last week I featured students taking their learning onto the stage, over the airwaves, and into the woods in the 'student learning spotlights' section of my weekly email. Today I want to share more examples of TA classes and clubs testing their knowledge and skills in real world settings during the culminating weeks of the semester. Students - [Support TA's Annual Appeal with Your Gift Today](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/support-tas-annual-appeal-with-your-gift-today/) - At the end of each year at TA, we invite you - through our annual appeal - to join us and support the important work our faculty and staff do every day. Giving to Thetford Academy's annual fund is an important and valuable way to connect with our school and our students - and helps - [Panthers Launch Winter Athletics Season, Basketball Opens Strong at Home](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/panthers-launch-winter-athletics-season-basketball-opens-strong-at-home/) - The Panthers have been preparing for their winter season openings, with alpine skiing, basketball, and indoor track athletes practicing and conditioning in advance of their first contests. Basketball was the first to compete with home games for both the boys and girls varsity and JV teams. On Tuesday, the JV and Varsity girls faced Williamstown - [TA's Robotics Team Competes in Plymouth, NH](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/tas-robotics-team-competes-in-plymouth-nh/) - Guest post from TA Robotics Coach Leif LaWhite. On Saturday the TA's robotics team 4886 took four robots to their second meet of the year, this time closer to home in Plymouth, NH. This was a large meet, with 47 robots from all over NH and VT, and again, 4886 did not disappoint. Each robot competed - [Students Reflect on Solo Experiences in the Forest](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/students-reflect-on-their-solo-experiences-in-the-forest/) - Throughout the semester, students in TA’s environmental studies and outdoor education course work toward an important milestone - the overnight solo experience. The experience at TA is similar to solos in programs like Outward Bound, and challenges students to spend time alone, connecting with nature and practicing self-reliance. Like the protagonist in John Smelzer’s “The - [Head of School Weekly Email: December News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/12/head-of-school-weekly-email-december-news/) - Dear TA Families, Welcome, December! Today marks the mid-quarter point for Q2. Please check in with students on their academic progress thus far this quarter and help them finish strong before the winter break. When we return in January, we have a final week of classes and then move into exam week. But let's not - [TA Freshman Named Hartford Football Defensive Player of the Year](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/ta-freshman-named-hartford-football-defensive-player-of-the-year/) - Thetford Academy freshman Jacob Phelps was recently named the Red Team's Defensive Player of the Year by his teammates at Hartford High School - an honor usually reserved for older players. Phelps, who plays middle line backer for the Division I Hartford Hurricanes as part of the Vermont Principal Association's "Member to Member" program, has - [Calling All Panthers! Alumni Basketball THIS SATURDAY](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/alumni-basketball-scheduled-for-november-25/) - Calling all Panthers! This Thanksgiving weekend, we're bringing back Alumni Basketball to the Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium! The annual alumni game is scheduled this year for Saturday, November 25th at 11 a.m. All alumni are welcome - never mind how long ago you graduated or how rusty your skills are, it's a friendly Panther event! Preregistration - [Start Your Season of Giving at Thetford Academy on Giving Tuesday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/start-your-season-of-giving-at-thetford-academy-on-giving-tuesday/) - Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday....Giving Tuesday! Giving Tuesday, now in its 11th year, is an annual celebration of generosity that invites us to give back to the people and places that matter most. With Giving Tuesday coming up on November 28, 2023 we invite you to start your season of giving at Thetford Academy. The - [Head of School Weekly Email: Thanksgiving Traditions, Winter Sports, Winter Concert & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-thanksgiving-traditions-winter-sports-winter-concert-more/) - Dear TA Families, Campus is really quiet today as we enjoy this first day of the Thanksgiving holiday, and pause the busy school routines for our first break of the year. Thanksgiving Traditions We love traditions at TA - some of them dating back generations, like Founders' Day, and others newer in their creation, like the - [Head of School Weekly Email: It's Showtime!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-its-showtime/) - Dear TA Families, We are all excited for this weekend's performances of Radium Girls. Almost 20% of our high school students are a part of the play as cast, crew, and other roles. With over 30 students on the Fall Play roster plus others who are involved on their own time, the participation numbers are sky high - [Strong Season for TA's Mountain Bike Racers](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/strong-season-for-tas-mountain-bike-racers/) - Thetford Academy juniors Spencer Durkee and Dillon Vance have been a part of the region's youth mountain biking circuit for more than five years. Though TA doesn't have a mountain biking team (yet), they are standouts in the local scene. Both students race in two different leagues each year, for Vermont Youth Cycling (VTYC) and - [THIS WEEKEND! Drama Department Presents Radium Girls, Nov. 17-19](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/ta-drama-department-presents-radium-girls/) - This November, Thetford Academy's Drama Department is excited to present Radium Girls by D.W. Gregory. Inspired by a true story, Radium Girls takes place in 1926, a time when radium was a miraculous treatment, Madame Curie was a global celebrity, and luminous watches were the newest fashion item—that is, until the girls who painted them - [Serving Up Food, Empathy, and Gratitude at Thetford Academy](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/serving-up-food-empathy-and-gratitude-at-thetford-academy/) - A partnership has been growing between Thetford Academy’s Culinary Arts program and the school garden. This fall, school garden coordinator Ehrin Lingeman and culinary arts teacher Jennifer Gernhard teamed up to ensure the garden’s harvest was enjoyed by as many people as possible. Gernhard’s “Cooking for Health” course led an initiative to turn TA’s produce - [Head of School Weekly Email: Season of Gratitude, Day of Observance](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-season-of-gratitude-day-of-observance/) - Dear TA Families, Season of Gratitude Students spent time in advisory on Tuesday reflecting on the theme of gratitude. With prompts such as - What is one thing you are thankful for now? How does it feel when someone genuinely thanks you for something? Can you think of a time in your life that you'd - [TA Middle School Students Use the Power of Audio to Tell Stories](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/ta-middle-school-students-using-the-power-of-audio-to-tell-their-stories/) - Audio storytelling – from long-form documentaries to short digital narratives – is a booming creative medium. Through radio, podcasts, and other forms of digital sharing, an audio story invites the listener into an experience that feels both intimate and immersive. At Thetford Academy, current 8th grade students are learning about the art and science of - [TA Celebrates Veterans Day with Guest Speakers from Thetford's American Legion](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/ta-celebrates-veterans-day-with-guest-speakers/) - On Monday, November 7, TA students gathered for a special assembly marking the upcoming Veterans Day holiday. The assembly opened with a performance of "A Light of Hope, A Song of Peace" by Thetford Academy's choral students, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and an introduction to the history and importance of Veterans Day from - [Robotics Team Brings Home the Hardware from First Competition](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/robotics-team-brings-home-the-hardware-from-first-competition/) - Guest post from TA's robotics coach Leif LaWhite TA's robotics team 4886, traveled to Fryeburg, ME on Saturday for their first competition of the 23-24 season - and they brought home the aluminum. TA sent four robots to the tourney: 4886S: Aden Perry, Connor Kutter-Walker, and Duncan MacPhee, 4886Y: Rowan Moody-A'Ness, Aiden Ouelette, Lucca Huling (and Tristan Woodward in - [Head of School Weekly Email: Q2 Launch!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-q2-launch/) - Dear TA Families, November is here and the first snowflakes fell this week. The cold doesn't stop us though. We had lots of exciting learning happening around campus this week - including outdoors, despite the chilly temps - as we launched our 2nd quarter of learning. Student Learning Spotlights at the Start of Quarter 2 - [Alumni Association News: Holiday Craft Bazaar, Memory Tree and More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/alumni-association-news-holiday-craft-bazaar-memory-tree-and-more/) - The Thetford Academy Alumni Association (TAAA) recently sent out their fall newsletter with details for their annual Holiday Craft Bazaar and other upcoming events. This year, the Bazaar will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Thetford Academy. Featuring more than 50 unique vendors and artisans, this event - [Cross Country Teams Shine at States, Earn Second](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/11/cross-country-teams-shine-at-states-earn-second/) - Cross country team's graduating seniors with coaches Joe Deffner and Emily Silver. Photo by Dan Grossman. Thetford Academy hosted more than 30 teams and 250 runners for Vermont's cross country championship on Saturday. The unseasonably warm day was a huge success for the Panthers, with both the boys and the girls teams earning second place - [Head of School Weekly Email: Collecting + Reflecting on Our Work = Creating a Portfolio](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-collecting-reflecting-on-our-work-creating-a-portfolio/) - Dear TA Families, Activities on Oct. 20 We used our special schedule (see slide 3 for details) yesterday to create time for a couple of important seasonal activities in advisory - one more focused and studious and the other more fun and festive. Students spent part of the morning working on developing their TA portfolios. This - [Head of School Weekly Email: Happy Halloween & November News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-happy-halloween-november-news/) - Dear TA Families, This week's email is full of dates and details to help with planning as we transition into the month of November. Check out the events below and find the ones that match your needs and interests. There is something for everyone! Spirit Week at TA: October 30-November 3. Sponsored by Student Council and the - [TA Welcomes Short-Term International Students in October](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/ta-welcomes-short-term-international-students-in-october/) - The TA community is excited to welcome three new international students to campus this year, two cultural exchange students from Guatemala and one French student joining the 8th grade for two weeks over his school break. To celebrate their arrival, TA's student-led International Club teamed up with Ms. Gernhard’s Foods Around the World class to - [Join Us for a Garden Work Party on November 4](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/join-us-for-a-garden-work-party-on-november-4/) - Despite the challenging weather this summer, we have had a great garden season here at TA. We've been excited to engage both students and community members in the garden's growing season, with activities from 7th graders harvesting our “Three Sisters” patch to the Board of Trustees designing and planting a perennial bed during their annual - [TA's New Disc Golf Course is a Community Effort](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/new-disc-golf-course-at-ta-is-a-community-effort/) - Have you heard about the new disc golf course being built on TA's South Campus? We are excited to share updates about this project and invite anyone who would like to get involved to join us in creating this new resource for our students and community. Community Collaboration So far, several students, classes and community - [Junction Arts Media Teams with TA to Document the Making of "Godspell"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/junction-arts-media-teams-with-ta-to-document-the-making-of-godspell/) - What does it take to make a high school musical theater performance come to life? A newly released documentary collaboration between TA and Junction Arts Media (JAM), aims to shed light on the process. This spring, Thetford Academy partnered with Jordyn Fitch, Junction Arts Media’s (JAM) community relations producer, to document the making of the - [Advanced Art Students Participate in the Memory Project](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/advanced-art-students-participate-in-the-memory-project/) - Thetford Academy's Advanced Art students recently completed portraits of children living in orphanages in Columbia. These portraits were made for the Memory Project, a nonprofit that aims to "create a kinder world through art." Founded by Ben Schumaker in 2004, the Memory Project began with Shumaker's passion for connecting youth around the world through art - [Head of School Weekly Email: Woods Trail Pride, International Visitors & Q1 Homestretch](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-woods-trail-pride-international-visitors-q1-homestretch/) - Dear TA Families, Here are a few of the latest highlights of life at TA ... Woods Trail Pride The community spirit we are known for and celebrate was on full display when TA hosted the 32nd annual Woods Trail Run last Saturday. Over 1500 runners from middle schools and high schools throughout New England came to race on - [Supporting DEI through Responsive Curriculum Development and Cultural Recognition](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/supporting-dei-through-responsive-curriculum-development-and-cultural-recognition/) - Thetford Academy is committed to antiracism, and to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our school community. With DEI professional development opportunities for faculty and staff and school-wide recognition of a variety of cultural events, holidays, and traditions, it’s been a fun and informative Fall on campus. On October 6, TA's faculty gathered - [Teachers Assess Writing Skills through Argumentation Exercise](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/students-argue-merits-of-cell-phone-ban-help-teachers-assess-skill/) - On a cool in-service morning last Friday, English and social studies teachers gathered together with snacks and coffee to read and discuss what ninth graders thought about a potential ban on cell phones at TA. “The idea of banning phone usage throughout the school is ultimately bizarre,” one student wrote. “I know that I use - [Spread the Word, TA Admissions Open House October 22](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/spread-the-word-ta-admissions-open-house-october-22/) - Thetford Academy is excited to welcome prospective students and families to campus for its fall Admissions Open House on Sunday, October 22! The high school event, geared toward students entering grades 9-12 in Fall 2024, will begin at 11:30 a.m. The middle school event, geared toward students entering grades 7-8 in Fall 2024, begins at - [Head of School Weekly Email: Adult Learning + Collaboration Time = Increased Student Learning](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/head-of-school-weekly-email-adult-learning-collaboration-time-increased-student-learning/) - Dear TA Families, The Value of Adult Learning To do our best work with students, educators need occasional time in our professional schedule without students. The annual fall inservice in early October is an important milestone for teachers, support staff, and administrators. The pause in the normal routine of teaching classes and running school allows us to do deeper collaborative planning, share - [TA Cross Country Teams Having a Good Run](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/cross-country-teams-looking-strong-before-woods-trail/) - After having their first meet at Bellows Falls cancelled due to heat, the Cross-Country Team opened the season with a home meet on September 12th. With six complete teams, the boys finished second with a score of 45 to Burr and Burton's 44. Brady Sloop led the way for the Panthers. It doesn't get much closer - [Panthers Persevere Through Mid-Season Challenges](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/panthers-persevere-mid-season/) - Photo credit: Renee BrownAfter an exciting four-game winning streak to start the season, TA's varsity boys have struggled to maintain momentum on the field. The last few weeks have challenged the Panthers as they clocked four consecutive losses, balancing their season record to 4-4. While facing some of Vermont's best teams, though, the Panthers' determination - [Head of School Weekly Email: Mid-Quarter Reflections, Sign-Up Days & Network Updates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-mid-quarter-reflections-sign-up-days-network-updates/) - Dear TA Families, As September comes to a close, we mark the midway point of Quarter 1. It's hard to believe, but students have been in school for a little over four weeks already! Quarter 1 Check-In Mid-quarter is a good time to check in with the TA student(s) in your family about how school is - [TA Composts: Feed the Soil, Fuel the Earth! ](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/10/ta-composts-feed-the-soil-fuel-the-earth/) - This year, Thetford Academy's Middle School Outdoor Leadership students are the stewards of all things compost. With tons of composting knowledge under their belts from composting with Cat Buxton at Thetford Elementary School (TES), students were ready to hit the ground running. Each Friday, students collect full buckets of food scraps from five locations across - [Thetford Outdoor Program Offers Fall Adventures for Students](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/thetford-outdoor-program-offers-fall-adventures-for-students/) - Autumn is a great time to get outside in Vermont, and the Thetford Outdoor Program is making the most of it. TOP outings are free and open to all TA students and showcase the best of the season in the Upper Valley. With options from rock climbing in Royalton, canoeing the Connecticut River, to yurt - [TA's 32nd Annual Woods Trail Run Oct. 7, Volunteers Needed](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/tas-32nd-annual-woods-trail-run-oct-7-volunteers-needed/) - On Saturday, October 7, Thetford Academy will host the 32nd Woods Trail Run, a truly unique TA event that for many participants and spectators, is the most-anticipated cross country event of the season. The event, founded by TA parent and former board member Dan Grossman, is well known for many things: great music, great food - [Head of School Weekly Email: Mountain Day Photo Gallery & Upcoming Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-mountain-day-photo-gallery-upcoming-events/) - Dear TA Families, We had a fabulous day hiking, exploring, and enjoying the trails and peaks of nearby mountains on Friday. The weather cooperated to make the 45th annual TA Mountain Day a success. Enjoy this preliminary photo gallery. We will add more to the mix as we continue to collect and curate photos next week. A - [Mountain Day 2023 - Photo Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/mountain-day-2023-photo-gallery/) - On Friday, September 22, a beautifully sunny first day of autumn, Thetford Academy students and staff headed out to six regional peaks for a day of hiking. We had perfect conditions for the 45th Frederick Torrey Mountain Day. For the first time since September 2019, the pandemic (with its many limitations and accompanying bus shortages) - [Counseling Office Hosts College Info Night for Seniors](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/counseling-office-hosts-college-info-night-for-seniors/) - On Tuesday, September 19, Thetford Academy's Counseling Office hosted a virtual college information session for current seniors and their families. The one-hour workshop, led by director of counseling Mark Pichette, provided an overview of the college application process and offered families tips and resources to help along the way. Some of the topics covered in - [Panthers Sweep Homecoming Games, Alumni Soccer a Win, Cross Country Hosts Home Meet](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/panthers-sweep-homecoming-games-v-lyndon-alumni-soccer-brings-prior-panthers-back-to-the-field/) - It was a great Homecoming for the Panthers on Saturday - both the boys and girls varsity soccer teams defeated Lyndon Institute and added a "W" to their season record. The girls took the field at 11:00 a.m. on TA's, up two at the half and finishing it off in the second to take LI - [Gully Boys Come to TA, Homecoming Schedule of Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/gully-boys-come-to-ta-homecoming-schedule-of-events/) - This year's Homecoming event is coming together, let's show our Panther Pride! We are excited to announce that after the Homecoming games, Vermont's own Gully Boys will be rocking the campus quad. This concert is free and open to the public - come out and enjoy some live music with us! Homecoming Schedule of Events - [New Cohort of Trustees Joins TA Board](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/new-cohort-of-trustees-joins-ta-board/) - The Thetford Academy Board of Trustees elected a new cohort of members for the start of the new fiscal year in July 2023. We welcome the five new trustees and thank them for their willingness to take on this important volunteer governance role. Erika Hoffman-Kiess, TA Class of 1986, brings personal and professional connections to - [Thetford Academy Awarded Vermont Arts Council Cultural Facilities Grant](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/thetford-academy-awarded-cultural-facilities-grant/) - Thetford Academy was recently awarded an $18,000 Cultural Facilities Grant from the Vermont Arts Council to complete much-needed technology upgrades in the Martha Jane Rich Theater. The MJR Theater, constructed in 2009 as part of TA's last capital campaign, is a high-quality, generously-sized performance space and a point of pride for the school's thriving theater - [Tuck Stocking '96 and Rock Dojo Students Take the Stage with Noah Kahan](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/tuck-stockings-rock-dojo-students-to-take-stage-with-noah-kahan/) - Photo credit: Kata Sasvari. Tuck Stocking and his Rock Dojo students on stage with Noah Kahan at the Bank of NH Pavilion.If you’re a musician in the Upper Valley, then you’ve probably heard about – or if you’re lucky, witnessed – the magic happening for students at Tuck’s Rock Dojo. TA alumnus Tuck Stocking ‘96, - [Head of School Weekly Email: Early 'Wins', Panther Pride, and Back to School Night](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-early-wins-panther-pride-and-back-to-school-night/) - Dear TA Families, Early Wins During our faculty meeting earlier this week, we each reflected on a 'win' we experienced during the first days of the new school year and took time for a few people to share out with their colleagues. Hearing the list of wins was inspiring. Student enthusiasm, curiosity, and engagement were a few - [Head of School Weekly Email: First Week!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/head-of-school-weekly-email-first-week/) - Dear TA Families, We hope the start of the new school year was a successful one for students and families alike. We saw lots of smiles and good energy on campus – we also know there might be some confusion, tiredness, or worry being expressed at home as well. The transition from summer mode to school - [Soccer Season Kicks Off, Heat Disrupts Schedules](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/09/soccer-season-kicks-off-heat-disrupts-athletic-schedules/) - TA's soccer season launched with two home games last week. The Panther girls kicked off on Friday, Sept. 1, with an 2-0 loss to rivals Oxbow. The boys followed on Saturday in their own game v. the Olympians. The Panthers earned first half goals from Mitchell Parkman and Henry Trage and held the Olympians off - [Faculty In-Service Strengthens Professional Community](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/faculty-in-service-strengthens-professional-community/) - The school year, in my mind, is a series of rituals that mark time: the first day of school, Mountain Day, Founders' Day, graduation, to name a few. August teacher in-service is a ritual, too, designed to both mark and make time for socializing with colleagues, learning new skills, getting courses and classrooms ready, and - [Save the Date: Homecoming 2023](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/save-the-date-homecoming-2023/) - Alumni, save the date for Homecoming 2023! This year, Homecoming is scheduled for Saturday, September 16 and chock-full of Panther Pride! The Panthers' varsity soccer teams will play Lyndon Institute; the girls' game begins at 11 a.m. and the boys' follow at 1:00 p.m. In addition, we are inviting alumni and friends to join us - [Robotics Team Gearing Up for New Season](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/robotics-team-gearing-up-for-new-season/) - TA’s VEX Robotics team 4886 is gearing up for the 2023-24 season. The team is open to TA students in both middle and high school who enjoy tinkering with motors, structures, and computers, who like making stuff and STEM, and are looking for some collaborative teamwork and spirited competition to round out their school experience. Robotics - [First Day Assembly - Head of School Welcome](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/first-day-assembly-head-of-school-welcome/) - Good morning. I am Ms. Brennan, the Head of School, and I am excited to welcome each of you to the 2023-2024 school year! Coming together in assembly on the first day is a TA tradition. TA is more than a school – it’s a community. Not all schools can say that. Schools that can - [TA Welcomes New Faculty!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/ta-welcomes-new-faculty/) - Congratulations and welcome to our fantastic cohort of teachers joining the TA team. The group includes five classroom teachers in the science, English, math, and world languages departments, along with three new special educators, with a balance of early career, mid career, and veteran educators. Tiffany Badams is joining the special education department. She is - [New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/new-student-welcome-and-back-to-school-picnic/) - Thetford Academy is looking forward to hosting students and families for two community events on August 27: a new student welcome and TA's annual back to school picnic. Beginning at 4:00 p.m., TA invites all new, incoming students to campus for a fun opportunity to get comfortable before the first day of school. New students - [Back-to-School Letter from Head of School](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/back-to-school-letter-from-head-of-school/) - The following letter accompanied the back-to-school mailing, sent to families in mid-August. Dear Students and Families, Summer Greetings from Thetford Academy! That slight chill in the air some mornings now reminds us of the turn of seasons - which means the start of school is around the corner. While we continue to enjoy the beauty - [Faculty Spotlight: 2023 Employee Award Goes to Joe Deffner!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/faculty-spotlight-2023-employee-award-goes-to-joe-deffner/) - Long-time teacher Joe Deffner was honored with the 2023 Peters Family Dedicated Employee Award at the end-of-year ceremonies in June. Initiated by TA educator and alum Ted Peters ‘63 in honor of his parents, this annual award spotlights a Thetford Academy employee for their deep commitment to nurture, support, and inspire students and the school - [TONIGHT! 90's Rockers "Lazer Dad" Take the Stage](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/90s-rockers-lazer-dad-take-the-stage-next-thursday-at-ta/) - The energetic local 90's tribute band Lazer Dad takes the stage tonight for the final installment of Thetford Academy's "Schoolhouse Rocks" summer concert series. If you want to "journey back to a time when the music was dope, the girls were fly, and the fashion was fresher than the Prince of Bel Air," then this - [Fostering Inclusion and Belonging through Restorative Justice Practices](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/fostering-inclusion-and-belonging-through-restorative-justice-practices/) - Photo: DEI Coordinator Tony Strat-Cortez presents at an all-school assembly last year. Thetford Academy’s Dean of Students, Siobhan Lopez and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Coordinator, Tony Strat-Cortez recently participated in a three-day institute focused on restorative justice practices. Building Restorative Practices, hosted by Great Schools Partnership, focused on how educators can implement restorative practices - [School Calendar for 2023-2024](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/school-calendar-for-2023-2024/) - Thetford Academy's official school calendar for 2023-24 is now complete, with half days and other key activities added. TA families will receive a copy in the back-to-school packet being mailed out this week. We encourage everyone in the school community to also use the calendar page on our school website as a resource: thetfordacademy.org/calendars. This - [Registration Open for Fall Athletics and Activities](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/08/registration-open-for-fall-sports-and-activities/) - Registration is now open for Thetford Academy's fall athletics and activities! We're gearing up for another great year in Panther athletics and if your student hasn't registered yet - don't worry - there is still time. Registrations will remain open until August 10th, 2023. TA will use the TeamSnap app again this year as our main - [Summer Tuesdays at TA: Fun Runs, Community Garden, and Films!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/summer-tuesdays-at-ta-fun-runs-community-garden-and-films/) - This summer, Tuesdays at TA will be full of fun for everyone! TA's traditional Tuesday Fun Runs have already begun (as of June 20), inviting all athletes and community members to participate in a 5K (or half-course) fun run on the Dan Grossman Woods Trail. Hosted by TA coaches Joe Deffner and Emily Silver, summer - [Summer is "TOPs" for TA's Thetford Outdoor Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/summer-is-tops-for-tas-thetford-outdoor-program/) - The Thetford Outdoor Program (TOP) at TA doesn't follow a school-year schedule - to the contrary, one of it's "TOP" seasons is summer, when the summer outdoor leadership programs kick off. This year, TOP has a full slate of outdoor adventures planned for students, with something for everyone and access points for all ability levels. - [Q4 Report Card Mailing: Letter from the Head of School](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/q4-report-card-mailing-letter-from-the-head-of-school-2/) - The following letter accompanied students’ final report cards of the year, which were mailed home on June 20. Dear Thetford Academy Parents, Caregivers, and Families, We didn’t let the rainy weather dampen our spirits for the finale of the year. On the last day of school, we came together as a community, as is our - [Graduation, Here We Come: A Guide to Friday's Festivities](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/graduation-here-we-come-a-guide-to-fridays-festivities/) - This Friday, Thetford Academy will celebrate Class Day and its 204th commencement. The 42-member Class of 2023 will start their graduation day in the gym - with the whole school community - for the TA tradition of Class Day. Class Day begins with underclassmen awards and honors, followed by the seniors' presentation of their "Last - [Go Panthers! Baseball and Softball Teams Headed to Championship on Saturday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/go-panthers-baseball-and-softball-teams-headed-to-championship-on-saturday/) - Go Panthers! TA's varsity softball and varsity baseball teams had an exciting week, winning both quarterfinal and semifinal games. They are off to the Division III state championships: baseball will play rival White River Valley at Centennial Field in Burlington on Saturday at 11:00 a.m., and the softball team will take on Oxbow at Castleton - [TA Statement for Pride Month](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/ta-statement-for-pride-month/) - Pride Month Statement Thetford Academy would like to recognize June as LGBTQIA+ Pride month and celebrate the diverse community we have on campus. We recognize the beauty and value in creating an educational space where students of any background or identity can succeed and grow to their full potential. Pride Month is a celebration of - [Head of School Weekly Email: Track & Field Wins Big, Sophomores Present, and the Class of 2023 Prepares](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/head-of-school-weekly-email-track-field-wins-big-sophomores-present-and-the-class-of-2023-prepares/) - Dear TA Families, The culminating experiences of the school year continued this week. I enjoyed the end of my day today spending time with our youngest and oldest students - first, practicing with the senior class as they prepare for the baccalaureate event on Sunday; and then, watching the middle school instrumental band class show - [Track and Field Teams Shine at States; Boys Take Title, Girls Earn 2nd](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/track-and-field-teams-shine-at-states-boys-win-girls-take-2nd/) - The Panthers continued their track and field winning streak last Thursday at the Division III State Championship meet. The boys won the event, taking home the state title for the fourth straight year, and the girls earned second behind White River Valley. Since 2018, the girls have placed first or second every year. Notably, coach - [At Baccalaureate, Graduates Encouraged to "Be Kind to Yourself and One Another"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/at-baccalaureate-graduates-encouraged-to-be-kind-to-yourself-and-one-another/) - Surrounded by close family and friends, Thetford Academy's Class of 2023 gathered on Sunday for one of their last events before Friday's graduation. Baccalaureate at TA is a time to reflect on and celebrate the milestones, achievements, and challenges overcome that mark the high school years. This year, TA hosted the event for the first - [It's Playoff Season for the Panthers](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/06/its-playoff-season-for-the-panthers/) - Panther fans, did you know that you can follow a play-by-play of TA athletics on Instagram? Visit www.instagram.com/thetfordacademy_athletics and give the Panthers a follow! The playoff season launched on Tuesday for the Panthers, with a baseball opener vs. Mill River. The Panthers, seeded third in Division III, routed Mill River in a quick five-innings, 14-0. - [Head of School Weekly Email: Learning in the Real World](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-learning-in-the-real-world/) - Dear TA Families, Culminating ExperiencesThis past week was a busy one with many classes taking their learning beyond the classroom walls - showcasing projects, performing for public audiences, and putting their skills and knowledge to the test in real world settings. Drama students delighted audiences with a high-energy and colorful performance of Godspell. Students in - [It's Tea Time in TA's New "Zen Zone"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/its-tea-time-in-tas-new-zen-zone/) - With a new "Zen Zone" in the library, Thetford Academy's Getting to Y (GTY) team hopes to help students feel safe, supported, and connected. The Zen Zone is, by design, a calm, quiet space for students to take a break, relax, and focus on self-care. It's a response to the GTY analysis of the most - [Head of School Weekly Email: Musical & More!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-musical-more/) - Dear TA Families, The school year is reaching a crescendo, as students work on and finish culminating projects in their classes. Two amazing examples are highlighted below, with this weekend's musical and a new timber frame structure that was raised on campus yesterday. We have two more 'regular' weeks of school, followed by the final - [Maddison Wilhite '13 Builds on TA Traditions](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/maddison-wilhite-13-builds-on-ta-traditions/) - Maddison Wilhite, Thetford Academy Class of 2013, believes she might be TA’s biggest fan–her classmates thought so, voting her the student with the “Most School Spirit” in her senior year. Wilhite’s family (originally from western Nebraska) moved around “a ton” before settling in Thetford in 2007. At TA, she found community, mentors, and lifelong friends. - [TA's Operation Day's Work Raises $8,000 for Kenyan Nonprofit](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/operation-days-work-raises-8000-for-kenyan-nonprofit/) - TA's Operation Day's Work, or "ODW Day," raised more than $8,000 for the Miwani, Kenya nonprofit "Cluck, Clucking for Education." The student-led service learning opportunity has long been a TA tradition, and this year, Thetford Academy was excited to assumed leadership for the U.S. arm of the international ODW program. As the new headquarters of - [Don't Miss TA's Performance of "Godspell," Opening Friday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/dont-miss-tas-performance-of-godspell-opening-friday/) - This weekend, Thetford Academy is excited to present the hit musical, Godspell. The show opens Friday evening at 7:00 p.m., with additional performances Saturday at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. Originally written and performed in the 1970’s, Godspell has since been updated for a modern audience with contemporary references and exciting new musical - [TA Celebrates the Arts on May 25](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/ta-celebrates-the-arts-on-may-25/) - TA's Arts department is coming together for its annual celebration of the arts on May 25. The Arts Exposition will feature student artwork, music, and performances from the visual arts to the culinary arts, from design technology to chorus and instrumental music. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with delicious hors d'oeuvres from the Meal Planning - [Girls Track and Field Wins CVC Championship, Boys Earn 5th Place](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/girls-track-and-field-wins-cvc-championship-boys-earn-5th-place/) - The Panthers were among the smallest teams competing at the Connecticut Valley Conference Championship on Saturday, but both teams stood out with strong performances. Out of 15 teams, the boys finished fifth and the girls came in first place, edging Hanover High School by one point. The girls victory was the first time that Thetford Academy - [Panthers Head into Final Stretch of Season](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/panthers-hitting-hard/) - As of this writing, the varsity Panthers baseball team is up 6-4, heading into the final stretch of the regular season ranked 3rd behind the Hazen Wildcats and Green Mountain. The Panthers kicked off this month's games with a streak of wins - taking down Lamoille 9-7, Harwood 18-13 -in what the Valley News characterized - [Head of School Weekly Email: Gratitude for a Full Week](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/head-of-school-weekly-email-gratitude-for-a-full-week/) - Dear TA Families, Lots of gratitude to share, looking back at this full week: • For our amazing teachers and staff as we wrap up Teacher Appreciation Week. • For our generous parents for their help providing goodies and flowers for the week. • For the hardworking students who provided service to their community on - [Head of School Weekly Email: Here Comes May!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-here-comes-may/) - Dear TA Families, May is (almost) here. But before we jump ahead, let's savor our April days. Student Appreciation Week This past week our school hallways were adorned with joyful, personal, and heartfelt notes - one for every student in the school - written by faculty advisors. Check out this awesome video compilation of some of the 300+ - [Thetford Academy Drama Presents "Godspell"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/thetford-academy-drama-presents-godspell/) - The Thetford Academy Drama Department is proud to present the hit musical, Godspell, May 19-21. Originally written and performed in the 1970’s, Godspell has been updated for a modern audience with contemporary references and exciting new musical arrangements. Godspell was the first major musical theater work from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner, Stephen Schwartz - [100 Donor Challenge for TA's Day of Giving on May 10](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/100-donor-challenge-for-tas-day-of-giving-on-may-10/) - Every year, Thetford Academy invites our community to join TA for our Day of Giving. This year, we'll be celebrating on Wednesday, May 10. We invite you to "Make TA's Day" with a gift to our annual fund, supporting exciting opportunities for student learning, exploration, and challenge. Our goal is to reach 100 donors and - [Spring News from the Thetford Academy Alumni Association; Alumni Banquet June 10](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/05/spring-news-from-the-thetford-academy-alumni-association-alumni-banquet-june-10/) - The Thetford Academy Alumni Association has news to share! Their latest newsletter (below) includes important information about the annual Alumni Day Banquet, scheduled for June 10, 2023 this year. The event will open at 4:30 p.m. with happy hour, followed by TAAA's annual meeting, dinner, and a silent auction. This year's dinner will be catered - [Engineers Share Expertise with Physics Students](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/vt-agency-of-transportation-shares-expertise-with-physics-students/) - Engineers from the Vermont Agency of Transportation were on campus this month to lend their expertise to TA students embarking on a bridge-building unit. AOT's Fianna Barrows PE, Structures Design Engineer, joined Tony Strat-Cortez's Physics class to present on different design techniques for building strong bridges and the variables that she takes into account when - [High School Course Registration for 2023-24: Resources & Timeline](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/course-registration-for-2023-2024-school-year/) - Although it feels like spring has just arrived, it's already time to start planning ahead for next school year! The Counseling Department has been hosting sessions for each of the grades to guide students through the planning process and provide instruction on the high school course registration steps. We invite parents and caregivers to be - [Spring Season Opens for the Panthers](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/season-opens-for-spring-athletics/) - TA's baseball season opened Saturday with the varsity boys' decisive 11-1 win vs. the Windsor Yellowjackets. Benjamin Rosenberg from the Valley News reported that the team played well together right out of the gate: "Coming off three straight trips to at least the VPA Division III semifinals, the Thetford Academy baseball team looked every bit - [Head of School Weekly News: Spring News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/head-of-school-weekly-news-spring-news/) - Dear TA Families, Here is a list of events & opportunities coming up this spring - for students, for parents, and for everyone: First up: Tonight is the High School Spring Semi-Formal! Hosted by the junior class, the dance will be here at TA in the Vaughan Alumni Gym from 7:30pm-10:00pm. Concessions will be open - [Space Available in TOP Summer Leadership Programs, Sign Up Today!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/space-available-in-top-summer-leadership-programs-sign-up-today/) - Spots are filling up quickly in TOP's Summer Leadership Program, but there is still space available for students to join TOP for exciting outdoor adventures: GLOW (Girls, Ladies, or Whoever), Vermont Adventure, and Garden Camp are still open! GLOW is an adventure-based trip catering to women-identifying and non-binary students who are looking to gain confidence - ["How to Talk So Kids Will Listen," Substance Use Prevention Presentation on April 18](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/ta-to-host-presentation-how-to-talk-so-kids-will-listen/) - On Tuesday, April 18, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., Thetford Academy will host a community conversation about substance use prevention for teens. “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen” is based on the educational sessions from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign and aims to help parents and - [Kait Christensen '27 Earns Spot in Can Am U14 Alpine Race](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/kait-christensen-27-earns-spot-in-can-am-u14-alpine-race/) - Kait Christensen, an 8th grade student at Thetford Academy, was recently selected to race in the U14 Can Am events at Quebec's Mont Tremblant. The Can Am races feature the best skiers in the 12-13 age group; only the top 80 U14 female skiers in North America qualify to compete. Christensen, who is part of - [TA's Operation Day's Work Scheduled for May 10, Employers Needed](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/tas-operation-days-work-scheduled-for-may-10-employers-needed/) - Each spring, Thetford Academy sends students out to put in a "day's work" in their community and earn money for a cause. This tradition, called Operation Day’s Work, or ODW Day, takes place in schools across the country and the world. Over the years, Thetford Academy students have helped to raise tens of thousands of - [Margaret Smallwood Earns Prevention WorksVT! "Prevention Champion Award"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/margaret-smallwood-earns-prevention-worksvt-prevention-champion-award/) - On Thursday, April 6, Margaret Smallwood was one of two youth in the state of Vermont to receive Prevention WorksVT!'s Prevention Champion Award at the Capitol Plaza in Montpelier. Margaret received the award for being a youth empowerment leader who has contributed to substance misuse prevention efforts at Thetford Academy and throughout our community. Since - [Head of School Weekly Email: The April Fools' Edition](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-the-april-fools-edition/) - Dear TA Families, Despite the lighter nature of today’s subject line, I’d like to start my weekly memo with some reflections on a really serious topic – school shootings in America. As we all know by now, there was another violent attack on a school in our country earlier this week. Three students and three - [Head of School Weekly Email: Roundtable Day Reflections, Parent Workshop, State Testing & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/04/head-of-school-weekly-email-roundtable-day-reflections-parent-workshop-state-testing-more/) - Dear TA Families, Roundtable Reflections Congratulations to all of the students who did their portfolio presentations during our first of two roundtable days on Wednesday! Students in grades 7, 8, and 10 presented to their peers in advisory, and students in grade 9 will do the same next month. Meanwhile, our seniors had a 'higher stakes' setting of - [Support TA's Robotics Club and Their Trip to Worlds!](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/support-tas-robotics-club-and-their-trip-to-worlds/) - In April, Thetford Academy's VEX Robotics team 4886 is headed to the VEX World Championship event in Dallas, TX. After a successful season of regional and state events, all of TA's teams have qualified to compete and TA will send 11 students to Worlds. The two middle school and two high school teams will join - [Senior Madi Mousley Awarded VBCA's Eric Ward Memorial Scholarship; VT Basketball Coaches Association Names All-Stars](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/senior-madi-mousley-awarded-vbcas-eric-ward-memorial-scholarship-vermont-coaches-association-names-all-stars/) - TA senior Madi Mousley was recently awarded the Vermont Basketball Coaches Association's inaugural Eric Ward Memorial Scholarship for Division III and IV. The scholarship, named in memory of Thetford Academy's longtime varsity girls basketball Coach Eric Ward, recognizes a "female student athlete who is a team player, displays good sportsmanship, has a positive impact on - [Head of School Weekly Email: Student Roundtables & Other Spring Updates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-student-roundtables-other-spring-updates/) - Dear TA Families, The days are lengthening, this afternoon the sun is shining, and under the melting snow today a few daffodil shoots appeared on the quad. As we transition between seasons, it has been a busy time in the sugar shack with the wood stove cranking and lots of boiling - and also a busy - [Head of School Weekly Email: One Act Play, Spelling Bee Champ, Inservice Re-Cap & Other TA News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-one-act-play-spelling-bee-champ-inservice-re-cap-other-ta-news/) - Dear TA Families, A few highlights to share with you as we come to the middle of March ... Spring Inservice The teacher inservice today included a variety of topics, from doing a deep dive into the TA professional standards to practicing for upcoming student roundtables and participating in restorative justice circles. During afternoon breakouts, some of - [Alpine Ski Team Caps Season with Hometown Flannel Classic](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/alpine-ski-team-caps-season-with-hometown-flannel-classic/) - February and March were a whirlwind for Thetford Academy's Alpine Ski Team. The Southern District Championship held at Pico on Monday, February 27th, marked the last regular season race and was the final determinant for which teams or individuals would advance to the VT State Championship at Burke. Coach Dixon shared that the competition is - [One Act Play "A Trip to the Moon" Heads to Regionals](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/one-act-play-a-trip-to-the-moon-heads-to-regionals/) - The cast and crew of "A Trip to the Moon." Photo credit: Melissa Thaxton Last weekend, TA's drama program presented "A Trip to the Moon" to an enthusiastic audience in the Martha Jane Rich Theater. The one-act play by Tracy Wells explores the transformative summer of 1969, and "tells the story of people reaching for - [Middle School "Getting to Y" Students Present at VAMLE Conference](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/middle-school-getting-to-y-students-present-at-vamle-conference/) - For the last several years, Thetford Academy's "Getting to Y" (GTY) middle and high school teams have been working to make an impact on the health and well-being of TA's student body. Through the process of analyzing the real data from Vermont's Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), Getting to Y empowers students to take action - [Head of School Weekly Email: Robotics Champs, FAFSA Night & Fall Play](https://thetfordacademy.org/2022/11/head-of-school-weekly-email-robotics-champs-fafsa-night-fall-play/) - Dear TA Families, Congrats to our TA robotics team for a big day at their first meet of the year on Saturday 11/5! Check out the meet write-up by one of the team coaches, Leif LaWhite, for all of the details: https://thetfordacademy.org/2022/11/seniors-win-robotics-tournament-7th-grade-steals-the-show. The FAFSA forms workshop for seniors and their families is this week - note - [It's Crunch Time for Robotics Team 4886](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/its-crunch-time-for-robotics-team-4886/) - With the NH/VT State championship scheduled for February 18, it's crunch time for TA's robotics teams. Over the two week winter break, campus was quiet, but the robotics shop was in full-swing. With the help of parent volunteers Karen MacPhee, Francine A'Ness, and Douglas Moody, students were able to access the shop for several hours - [Drama Students to Present Short Plays "In Our Own Words"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/drama-students-to-present-short-plays-in-our-own-words/) - This Saturday at 7 p.m. in the Martha Jane Rich Theater, TA students in the Fall Play class will stage their final performances of the semester. The performances, titled "In Our Own Words," will feature a trio of original short plays written by students as their final project. These plays were created using the process - [Panthers Start New Year Strong](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/panthers-start-new-year-strong/) - TA's student athletes kept busy over the two week winter break with a full schedule of practice and competition. Basketball season is in full swing, the alpine ski team is (sort of) back on snow, and the indoor track team had their first meet at the University of Vermont last weekend. Keep an eye on - [Head of School Weekly Email: Exam Week Details & Weekend Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-exam-week-details-weekend-events/) - Dear TA Families, Thank you again for supporting the day of remote learning on Wednesday. We really appreciate everyone's flexibility and adaptability! Early January is a pivotal time in the academic calendar at TA. Students return from holiday break and immerse themselves back into classes for the final stretch of the semester. Students are working on culminating - [Panthers Not Tired of Winning](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/panthers-not-tired-of-winning/) - It's been a great week for the Panthers! The girls basketball team faced off v. Hartford last Friday night at home, earning their fourth straight victory of the season with a 73-24 win. Junior Addie Cadwell led the scoring with 17 points, followed by Charlize Brown with 14, Kelsey Bogie 13, and Taylor West 11. - [English 10 Students Host Biannual Anthology Presentation](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/english-10-students-host-biannual-anthology-presentation/) - Students in English 10 presented their Anthologies in the Martha Jane Rich Theater on January 7 to an audience of families and faculty and student guests. This year marks the 32nd year of the project started by retired teacher Peggy Sadler back in 1991. The Anthology Project is a rite of passage at Thetford Academy, one that every student - [Head of School Weekly Email: Semester Transitions, Extracurricular Program & MLK Holiday](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-semester-transitions-extracurricular-program-mlk-holiday/) - On Tuesday, we will begin our third quarter of the school year and a new semester. High schoolers will have an entirely new schedule of classes. Middle schoolers will maintain the same schedule and teachers for most of their day, with just a rotation in their afternoon arts/tech electives. Drop/Add Period & Course Availability For - [Students Complete Challenge Courses in Journalism and Entrepreneurship](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/students-share-challenge-course/) - Each year at TA, students are given the opportunity to tackle a project in an area of personal interest through the TA Challenge Course program. The topics for these courses are as unique as TA students themselves, and have ranged from equestrian training to aviation, climate change to gender studies. On January 10, 2023, two - [Do You Have What it Takes To Be a Founders' Day Judge?](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/alumni-do-you-have-what-it-takes-to-be-a-founders-day-judge/) - Thetford Academy's birthday is coming up and we're getting ready to celebrate! Founders' Day this year will be held on February 3, 2023, with the theme of "TA Departments" - we can only imagine what our students will come up with, but we know it's going to be great. This year, we're hoping to add - [Counseling Department Presents Introduction to the College Process for Juniors](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/introduction-to-the-college-process/) - On Thursday, January 19, 2023, the Counseling Office presented an introduction to the college process for Thetford Academy juniors and their families. The event, led by Counseling Director Mark Pichette, provided an overview of the college application process and offered resources and tips for students and families starting to think about their college options. In - [Head of School Weekly Email: January News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-january-news/) - Featured photo: The 8th graders took a little time out of their English class today to make some maple sugar snow treats. Dear TA Families, I hope students had a good week and are settling into their routines. The start of the new semester is an exciting time of change for high schoolers, as well as - [Registration Open for TOP Summer Leadership Programs](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/registration-open-for-top-summer-leadership-programs/) - The Thetford Outdoor Program has planned another summer of exciting outdoor leadership adventures for 2023! Registration is now open for six different multi-day wilderness trips and experiences, including: paddling the Connecticut River, backpacking the Appalachian Trail, a "GLOW" experience for women (or anyone who identifies as a girl or woman always or sometimes) with hiking, - [TA Student Speaks Up for Equity in Schools](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/ta-student-speaks-up-for-equity-in-schools/) - Photo: DEI coordinator Tony Strat-Cortez and Sora Bolles '26 Last week, Thetford Academy student Sora Bolles '26 presented invited testimony to the Vermont State Board of Education on behalf of the Vermont Student Anti-Racism Network (VSARN). VSARN is a project of Vermont Learning for the Future and is made up of student activists from all - [Head of School Weekly Email: Founders' Day, Evening Events & Other Updates](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/01/head-of-school-weekly-email-founders-day-evening-events-other-updates/) - Dear TA Families, Here is the latest news from TA ... Founders' Day Next Week The TA community is gearing up for our big winter tradition with Founders' Day happening next Friday, Feb. 3. Each student will be part of a committee helping with one aspect of the Founders' Day preparations: building a snow sculpture, - [Regular Season Wrapping Up with Panthers Staying Strong](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/regular-season-wrapping-up-with-panthers-staying-strong/) - Regular season is wrapping up for the Panthers, and both the girls and the boys basketball teams are maintaining strong season records. The girls basketball team is currently ranked 3rd in the VPA's Division III (10-4). Last Tuesday, the Panthers fell to Windsor (56-42) for the second time this season, breaking an eight game streak - [Student Alliance for Racial Justice to Host Film "Driving While Black"](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/student-alliance-for-racial-justice-to-host-film-driving-while-black/) - On Friday, February 10, 2023, Thetford Academy’s Student Alliance for Racial Justice (SARJ) student group will host a premiere of the PBS film "Driving While Black." "Chronicling the riveting history and personal experiences – at once liberating and challenging, harrowing and inspiring, deeply revealing and profoundly transforming – of African Americans on the road from - [Morgan Gaffney '20 Running for a Cause](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/morgan-gaffney-20-running-for-a-cause/) - Ten years ago, Morgan Gaffney ‘20 was a 10 year-old spectator near the Boston Marathon finish line. She was there to cheer on her mom Renee, who was running that day with her longtime team. The event turned traumatic for Morgan when the race was disrupted by the Boston Marathon bombing, an act of domestic - [Head of School Weekly Email: February News](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-february-news/) - Dear TA Families, Just a few updates to share with you on this chilly Friday ... Founders' Night - Tonight! As we shared earlier this week, Founders' Day has moved to Monday due to today's extreme cold weather. But Founders' Night is on for this evening as planned, from 7-10pm. We hope lots of students - [TA Launches Impact App Challenge, Inviting Students to Be the Change](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/ta-launches-impact-app-challenge/) - Last week, Thetford Academy students were invited to take on the "Impact App Challenge." The Challenge, launched in collaboration with the Impactree Foundation, is designed to inspire TA students to identify a key environmental or social problem they see and experience – and to try to solve it through technology. Impactree founder Ken Kurtzig is - [TA Celebrates 80th Annual Founders' Day (Watch the Video!)](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/ta-celebrates-80th-annual-founders-day-watch-the-video/) - On Monday, February 6, 2023, Thetford Academy celebrated its 204th birthday and its 80th annual Founders' Day. Former Head of School Carl Anderson started the Founders' Day tradition in 1944, after fire destroyed the school's original campus. His idea commemorate the school's history was an opportunity to lift the spirits of the community and to - [Head of School Weekly Email: Looking Back & Ahead](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-looking-back-ahead/) - Dear TA Families, Looking back on the week, here are a couple of highs - and one low - that I'm reflecting on and want to share with you ... Founders' Day Re-Cap We started the week on a high note on Monday - playing, reflecting, performing, competing, and eating together as a whole school. - [Senior Games Coming Up, Playoffs in Sight](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/senior-games-coming-up-playoffs-in-sight/) - The Panthers are nearing the end of an exciting basketball season, with the playoffs in sight. The girls are wrapping up their regular season this Thursday with their senior celebration before their last home game vs. Harwood. TA will be honoring seniors Taylor West and Madi Mousley, as well as JV senior Shisi Dai. In - [TA Hosts 14th Annual Poetry Out Loud Competition](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/ta-hosts-14th-annual-poetry-out-loud-competition/) - On Monday, Thetford Academy hosted its 14th annual Poetry Out Loud recitation contest, featuring nine talented student contestants. Congratulations to Connor Gaine '25, Ava Hayden '25, Starlee Riley LaClair '26, Zach Nalette '25, Bianca Pulaski '25, Kaya Freeman '25, Elijah Renner '26, Mary Bosco '24. and Grace Solsaa '24 for their outstanding performances. Each recitation, - [Head of School Weekly Email: Winter Illnesses, Winter Sports, Winter Break](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-winter-illnesses-winter-sports-winter-break/) - Dear TA Families, Even if the weather has been tricking us of late, we are still in the thick of the season. Here are a few mid-winter updates from TA. Winter Illness It's that time of the season, and we are seeing a lot of illness on campus and throughout the community. Our school nurse - [Counseling Office Hosts Panel Discussion with College Reps](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/counseling-office-hosts-panel-discussion-with-college-reps/) - Last week, the Counseling Office hosted a panel discussion with a variety of college representatives. The event featured staff from Dartmouth, University of Vermont, Community College of Vermont, Bishop's University, and Vermont State University. They spoke about the college investigation process, admissions requirements, costs and financing, and how each type of school weighs applications. Open - [TA Robotics Teams Shine at States, Headed to World Championship](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/ta-robotics-teams-shine-at-states-headed-to-world-championship/) - Photo: Team 4886 at the VEX Robotics VT/NH State Championships; on the left, 4886 alumni Tate Whiteberg and Eldon Crossett cheer on their former team. Credit: Kate Hill Last year, TA's VEX robotics team established itself as a regional powerhouse with their performance in the VT/NH state championship; on Saturday, at the 2023 event, they - [Alpine Ski Team Races Toward States with Slalom Meets](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/alpine-ski-team-season-update-and-photos/) - Over the last few weeks, TA's alpine ski team has competed at Pico, Saskadena Six, and Bromley. They faced a wide range of weather and snow conditions, but this is a group that's flexible, hardworking, and up for anything. In January, they competed in the giant slalom at Pico. It was a cold and windy - [Head of School Weekly Email: Robotics & Basketball Champs, Snowshoe Making & More](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/02/head-of-school-weekly-email-robotics-basketball-champs-snowshoe-making-more/) - Dear TA Families, Congratulations are in order! TA was a force to be reckoned with at last weekend's NH/VT robotics championships. TA teams took half of the six spots to go to the VEX world championships in the spring. Check out the photos below and read all about the meet on the TA website! (And to learn - [Thetford Arthouse Cinema Returns to MJR Theater on March 16](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/thetford-arthouse-cinema-returns-to-mjr-theater-on-march-16/) - In case you missed it, Thetford Academy's Martha Jane Rich Theater became a hot spot for local film enthusiasts last summer. The Thetford Arthouse Cinema (TAC), a 501c3 nonprofit, launched last year with a mission to "build local community by sharing the world's greatest films." The Cinema will return to TA this spring with an - [SARJ Film Series Continues with "My Name is Pauli Murray" on March 10](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/sarj-film-series-continues-with-my-name-is-pauli-murray-on-march-10/) - Thetford Academy's Student Alliance for Racial Justice (SARJ) will host a free screening of the movie "My Name is Pauli Murray" on March 10th at 7 p.m. in TA's Martha Jane Rich Theater, with discussion to follow. The film is a look at the life and ideas of Pauli Murray, a non-binary Black lawyer, activist - [Panther Girls End Title Run, Boys Headed to the Aud](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/panther-girls-end-title-run-boys-headed-to-the-aud/) - The girls varsity basketball team ended its title run with a tough 44-40 loss vs. the Windsor Yellowjackets on Saturday. The Panthers were riding high from their semifinal rout of #2 seed Hazen (60-32) where the team's focus and determination were on full display. In an interview with the Valley News, junior Charlize Brown, the - [Spelling Bee Buzz: Maddie Piecuch '28 Moves on to State Championship](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/spelling-bee-buzz-maddie-piecuch-28-moves-on-to-state-championship/) - Before February break, Thetford Academy's middle school English students were studying up for the school's annual spelling bee, a qualifying event for Vermont's Scripps State Spelling Bee in March. On February 20th, the top three spellers in each of the two seventh grade sections – along with interested 8th grade spellers - took the stage - [Indoor Track Team Earns New Records at New Englands](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/indoor-track-team-earns-new-records-at-new-englands/) - This weekend, several athletes from Thetford Academy's indoor track team competed at the New England High School Championships at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston. TA's team competed in three events, the 4 x 800 relay, the 2-mile run, and the long jump. Several students beat their personal records, and three put up new Thetford - [Head of School Weekly Email: March News & Panther Pride](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/head-of-school-weekly-email-march-news-panther-pride/) - Dear TA Families, Lots of events coming up at our awesome community theater at TA. Here's the line up! Friday 3/10 (today!) - 'My Name is Pauli Murray' film screening @ 7pm. Free & open to the public. Location: Martha Jane Rich Theater. Learn more. Thursday 3/16 - Thetford Arthouse Cinema kicks off spring series. First film - [Mary Bosco '24 Advances to Poetry Out Loud Finals](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/mary-bosco-24-advances-to-poetry-out-loud-finals/) - On Thursday, March 9, junior Mary Bosco competed in Vermont's Poetry Out Loud semi-final event at the Barre Opera House. Poetry Out Loud, created by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, engages students in the exploration, memorization, and recitation of great poetry, building confidence and public speaking skills along the way. - [TA Alumni Association Gives Back with $10,000 in Grants](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/ta-alumni-association-gives-back-with-10000-in-grants/) - Last month, the Thetford Academy Alumni Association (TAAA) met to finalize their annual contribution back to Thetford Academy. Over the course of the year, TAAA's alumni volunteers hard to raise money for TA: they provide food vending at the Woods Trail Run and the Vermont State Championship cross country event, host the annual Holiday Craft - [Spring Roundtable Days Coming Up: April 5 & May 3](https://thetfordacademy.org/2023/03/student-portfolios-spring-roundtables/) - At Thetford Academy, we are proud of the academic content that we offer students in all of our classes. At the same time, we recognize that students are also learning skills in school that transcend single-subject information - skills like communication, problem solving, and critical thinking that they use in many facets of their life, ## Pages - [Vermont Independent School](https://thetfordacademy.org/) - Sign up for TA news! Email* First Name Last Name Sign me up! Our mission is to celebrate the unique worth of all students, to nurture their strengths, and to challenge them to fulfill their potential. TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic Thetford Academy is looking forward to hosting students and - [Health Office](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/health-office/) - This is a Friendly Reminder: All incoming 7th grade students need to be up-to-date on their: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Tetanus (TDaP) vaccinations. If your student is not up-to-date please schedule an appointment with your pediatrician this booster and contact Nurse Ellen. Thank you. The goal of the school nurse is to help students stay in - [Staff Directory](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/staff/) - Our Team Nasser Abdel-Fatah Design Technology envelope Stacy Barton Social Studies Faculty envelope Stacy Anderson Director of Student Support Services envelope Jon Beard World Languages Faculty envelope Bri Barnes Director of Athletics and Activities envelope Matthew Benzing Paraeducator envelope Frank Bonnett Special Education Paraprofessional envelope Carrie Brennan Head of School envelope John Brown Director of - [Employment Opportunities](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/employment-opportunities/) - Thetford Academy seeks dynamic, skilled, and caring educators and support staff to join our team. TA offers a competitive salary and benefits package and a vibrant learning community in which to work. Check out TA’s mission and values here. Candidates who would add to the racial and cultural diversity at Thetford Academy are encouraged to - [Track & Field](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/track-field/) - Sebastian Perdrizet winning the long jump at the 2026 D3 State Championship. Photo credit: Matt Hayden VT Gatorade Player of the Year for Track & Field Huge congratulations to junior Sebastian Perdrizet for being named the 2025-26 Gatorade Vermont Boys Track and Field Player of the Year! Sebastian dominated the season, breaking his own state record in - [Sending Towns](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/sendingtowns/) - Thetford Academy enrolls students in grades 7-12. We are the designated middle and high school for the town of Thetford, VT, and a school of choice for students in a wide range of Upper Valley sending towns. VT/NH Town Tuitioning Program A “sending town” is defined as a Vermont or New Hampshire town without its - [Woods Trail & XC Meets](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/woods-trail-run/) - Thetford Academy is proud to host major state and regional cross-country events on its top-notch 5K course, bringing thousands of high school runners to the school’s campus every year. The Dan Grossman Woods Trail course is renowned for both its scenic beauty and level of challenge. Woods Trail Run The Woods Trail Run is a - [Tuition and Financial Aid](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/tuition/) - Thetford Academy enrolls students in grades 7-12. We are the designated middle and high school for the town of Thetford, VT, and a school of choice for students in a wide range of Upper Valley sending towns. For families who do not live in an approved sending town, a private pay option is available. Tuition - [Donate Now](https://thetfordacademy.org/give/donate-now/) - [Cowboy Classic](https://thetfordacademy.org/give/cowboyclassic/) - Support Thetford Academy’s track and field program with your Cowboy Classic gift today! The event, honoring former track and field coach Scott Chapman, is a unique opportunity to bring generations of track and field athletes together to build community and engage in a little healthy competition jumping and throwing – even if they haven’t done - [Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp](https://thetfordacademy.org/uvsdc/) - Thetford Academy and Hanover High School have teamed up to offer the Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp. Open to students rising to grades 7-10, Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp has something for all skill levels. Join us on Thetford Academy’s beautiful campus this summer and get immersed in the rhetorical joys of persuasive - [Summer Programs](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/summer/) - Learn year-round at Thetford Academy! TA is proud to host a variety of summer learning and leadership opportunities each year. Thetford Academy offers several summer opportunities for students interested in continuing their learning outside the classroom. In partnership with Hanover High School, TA hosts the Upper Valley Speech and Debate Camp for students from throughout - [Board of Trustees](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/board-of-trustees/) - Thetford Academy is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees is a self-electing board, with up to 21 members. The Board includes town representatives nominated by the school boards of Thetford, VT, Strafford, VT, and Lyme, NH; alumni representatives; numerous members-at-large from the community; and, starting in 2025, two student representatives - [Counseling Office](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/counseling-office/) - Thetford Academy’s Counseling Office works to help students reach their personal academic and post-secondary goals, providing assistance with course selection and sequence, college counseling and preparation, study-abroad and dual enrollment opportunities, and social and emotional support. School counselors work closely with advisors and grade-level teams to collaborate on students’ progress and challenges. All students are - [Baseball](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/baseball/) - 2026 Middle School Baseball 2026 Varsity Baseball 2026 JV Baseball Download the Scorebook Live app for Apple or Google Photo Gallery Photos by Meg Spooner and J&R Photography Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band - [Indoor Track & Field](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/indoor-track-field/) - Meet Schedule Indoor T&F Records Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [Parents and Families](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/thetford-academy-parents/) - Thetford Academy welcomes parents and families as an integral part of our school community and partners in our work as educators. Throughout the year, we invite families to campus for school events and activities, athletic events and TA traditions. Open houses, an opportunity to connect with teachers and learn more about TA’s program and curriculum, - [Calendars](https://thetfordacademy.org/calendars/) - School Calendar Subscribe to the TA School Calendar calendar-plus-oDownload the 2026-2027 Calendar file-pdf-o - [Academic Courses](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/academic-courses/) - Unified Arts Humanities STEM Physical Education and Wellness Outdoor Learning and Leadership Challenge Courses and Tech Ed Visual Arts The Visual Arts program at Thetford Academy focuses on visual literacy. How do color, contrast, value, shape, pattern, and quality of line affect the way one reacts to a visual presentation—either in life or on canvas? - [Give](https://thetfordacademy.org/give/) - Giving to Thetford Academy When you make a gift to Thetford Academy, you support our mission to celebrate the unique worth of all students, nurture their growth, and challenge them to fulfill their potential. With your help, we are able to provide students with diverse academic and extracurricular opportunities. Your gift helps sustain TA’s robust - [Panther Cafe](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/panther-cafe/) - Thetford Academy’s Panther Cafe, a bright and lively hub within the Anderson Building, is the home of TA’s food service program. Each day, our food service staff members are proud to provide a variety of healthy and delicious foods to students and staff. The program currently offers both breakfast and lunch options, and supports a - [TOP Summer Leadership Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/top-summer/) - Each summer, the Thetford Outdoor Program offers several opportunities for Thetford Academy students to have immersive outdoor leadership experiences and adventures. TOP Summer Leadership programs are announced each winter and open to all TA students in grades 7-12, and to students from our sending schools in the Upper Valley. TOP Summer Leadership opportunities for summer - [Thetford Outdoor Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/) - The mission of the Thetford Outdoor Program is to ignite academic curiosity and foster environmental stewardship through outdoor exploration, recreation, and project-based, experiential learning. The Thetford Outdoor Program (TOP) launched in 2014 with the generous support of the Woodbury Foundation. TOP builds on TA’s long commitment to experiential and outdoor learning, and uses TA’s vast - [Softball](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/softball/) - 2026 Varsity Softball 2026 JV Softball Download the Scorebook Live app for Apple or Google Photo Gallery Coming soon! Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [Staff](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/staff-2/) - Head of School envelope Carrie Brennan Carrie Brennan joined Thetford Academy as Head of School in July 2019. Formerly the executive director and co-founder of CITY Center for Collaborative Learning in Tucson, Arizona, Carrie’s work in education and education leadership has been widely recognized. In March 2019, she was named one of Tucson’s “Women of - [Staff Directory](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/staff-directory/) - Our Team Ben Bailey Director of Finance envelope Bri Barnes Director of Athletics and Activities envelope Stacy Barton Social Studies Faculty envelope Jon Beard World Languages Faculty envelope Frank Bonnett Special Education Paraprofessional envelope Carrie Brennan Head of School envelope John Brown Director of Buildings and Grounds envelope Jolene Cadwell Mathematics Faculty envelope Sue Clark - [Middle School Montreal Trip](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/montreal-trip/) - Each year, our 8th graders have the chance to take part in an immersive class trip to Montreal, designed to strengthen community, broaden students’ perspectives, and bring classroom learning to life. This long-standing tradition offers students the chance to explore new places, experience different cultures, and practice real-world skills in a supportive group setting. Donate - [Alumni](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/alumni/) - The Thetford Academy community includes over 3,000 active alumni. The shared experience of a TA education creates strong bonds, lifelong friendships, and a supportive network for current students and recent alumni. TA alumni work in diverse careers and live across the globe, with many returning to their “home” at Thetford Academy for reunions and events. - [Visit](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/visit/) - We encourage all prospective students and families to join us for an in-person campus visit. Throughout the year, the admissions department offers several opportunities to connect with our campus and community–including annual open house events, individual and family tours, and half-day “Taste of TA” experiences for students. Ways to Visit Admissions Open House Every fall, - [Girls Basketball](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/girls-basketball/) - 2025-2026 Rosters 2025-2026 Varsity Schedule 2025-2026 JV Schedule Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [Boys Basketball](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/boys-basketball/) - 2025-2026 Rosters Varsity Schedule JV Schedule Download the Scorebook Live app for Apple or Google Photo Gallery Coming soon! Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [History](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/history-2/) - Thetford Academy opened in February 1819, and was chartered by the State of Vermont on October 29, 1819. The constitution of Vermont called for free elementary schools in each town, a school in each county for studies above the elementary level, and one university for the state. The terms Grammar School and Academy were used - [Journalism Club](https://thetfordacademy.org/journalism-club/) - Thetford Academy’s Journalism Club meets weekly to plan and execute the publication of the school newspaper, the “Thetford Academy Times.” TAT, as it’s affectionately known, is entirely student written, edited, and produced. All students are welcome to participate in Journalism Club and playing a part in telling TA stories. Coming soon! Latest News When the - [Alpine Skiing](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/alpine-skiing/) - 2025-2026 Roster TBD Photo Gallery Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [Advanced Coursework and Extended Learning](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/extended-learning/) - Thetford Academy supports students interested in pursuing off-campus learning opportunities from semester programs to study abroad, from online coursework to dual enrollment options. Academic coursework may be transferred to TA for high school credit with approval from the Counseling Office. Below are some of common extended learning opportunities students pursue as part of their graduation - [Request Information](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/request-info/) - Interested in learning more about Thetford Academy? Please take a moment to fill out this short form and a member of our Admissions team will be in touch soon! Request for Information First Name of Student* Last Name of Student* Current School Name* Thetford Elementary SchoolLyme SchoolThe Newton SchoolFirst Branch Middle SchoolWaits River Middle SchoolHartland - [Application Process](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/application-process/) - Thank you for your interest in Thetford Academy! We look forward to learning more about you during the application process and can’t wait to welcome you to the TA community. Applying to Thetford Academy Enrollment is now open! All applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application by March 1st. Course selection begins in the - [Admissions](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/) - Admissions As Vermont’s oldest secondary school, Thetford Academy has prepared students for success for over 200 years. An independent school with a public purpose, TA believes that education should be inclusive and personalized; and that every student deserves to be inspired, challenged, and supported. Thetford Academy offers big opportunities in a small-school setting. TA students - [College Acceptance List](https://thetfordacademy.org/college-acceptance-list/) - Acceptances at Four-Year Colleges & UniversitiesClasses of 2022-2025 *Asterisk indicates student matriculated Agnes Scott CollegeAlfred State CollegeAlfred UniversityAmerican UniversityAnglo-American UniversityAppalachian State UniversityArizona State University*Babson College*Bard CollegeBentley UniversityBinghamton UniversityBishop’s University*Boston College*Boston University*Brandeis University*Brigham Young UniversityBryant UniversityCalifornia College of the ArtsChamplain College*Charleston Southern UniversityClark University*Clarkson UniversityCoastal Carolina University*Coe College*Colby-Sawyer CollegeColorado College*College of the AtlanticColumbia College ChicagoConnecticut College*Cornell - [Athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/) - Athletics Athletics are a valuable part of the Thetford Academy experience. Thetford Academy is a Division III school and competes in most sports in the Northern Vermont Athletic Conference as a member of the Capital League. The Academy’s five principles—excellence, commitment, caring, cooperation, and respect for diversity—serve as the guidelines for all athletics participants. TA - [Cross Country](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/cross-country/) - Rosters HS Schedule MS Schedule Visit the Cross Country Team Website linkSubscribe to the Cross Country High School Calendar calendar-plus-o Photo Gallery Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, - [Boys Soccer](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/boys-soccer/) - Varsity and JV Boys Roster Varsity Schedule JV Schedule MS CoEd Schedule Download the Scorebook Live app for Apple or Google Photo Gallery photos by Renee Brown Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at - [Girls Soccer](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/girls-soccer/) - Varsity Girls Roster Varsity Schedule MS CoEd Schedule Download the Scorebook Live app for Apple or Google Photo Gallery Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [TA News](https://thetfordacademy.org/news/) - Sign up for TA news! Email* First Name Last Name Sign me up! - [Bass Fishing](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/bass-fishing/) - Roster TBD Photo Gallery Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [Golf](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/golf/) - Roster TBD Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at TA This Weekend 04 August, 2026 Upcoming Events - [Campus](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/campus/) - 1. South Campus 2. White Building 3. Vaughan Alumni Gymnasium 4. Arts and Science Building – Arts Wing 5. Arts and Science Building – Science Wing 6. Anderson Hall 7. Thetford Academy Athletics Fields 8. Dan Grossman Woods Trail 9. Torrey Mountain Bike Trail Thetford Academy’s 295-acre campus includes multiple athletic fields and an extensive - [Project Senior](https://thetfordacademy.org/give/project-senior/) - Senior year is an pivotal time for students at Thetford Academy; a year of challenge and excitement, filled with special events and important milestones. Project Senior is TA’s annual fundraising effort to support our students in their final year at TA. Project Senior funds events like prom, a senior trip, ensuring every senior gets a - [Student Handbook](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/student-handbook/) - The Student and Family Handbook is designed to outline the information needed to be successful at Thetford Academy. In this handbook, we share expectations, processes, and procedures to help guide our students and community and answer commonly asked questions about student life at TA. For more information about the policies and expectations in the handbook, - [Transportation](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/transportation/) - Thetford Academy currently provides bus service or van transportation to and from many of our main sending areas in the Upper Valley. Each route has a centralized drop-off and pick-up location; see list below for those locations (subject to change). In the town of Thetford, bus service is coordinated with the Thetford Elementary School and - [Mission and Values](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/mission/) - Mission Thetford Academy’s mission is to celebrate the unique worth of all students, to nurture their strengths, and to challenge them to fulfill their potential. Core Values Excellence We set high expectations. We challenge all members of the school community to reach their highest potential. Commitment We value initiative, courage and dedication. We take personal - [Boys Soccer](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/boys-soccer-2/) - 2025 Rosters 2025 Varsity Schedule 2025 JV Schedule 2025 MS CoEd Schedule Subscribe to the Boys Varsity Soccer Google Calendar calendar-plus-o Photo Gallery photos by Renee Brown Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting Campus News, Community Info Sessions 12 August, 2026 Thetford’s Own Barn Band at - [Day of Giving 2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/give/ta-day-of-giving/) - At TA, every class is a gateway to the world Celebrate the unique worth of all students, nurture their strengths, and challenge them to fulfill their potential—this is Thetford Academy’s mission. We start in the classroom, preparing students for the world. Inside every classroom, teachers are opening doors for our students. They are sharing ideas, - [Proficiency-Based Teaching and Learning](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/proficiency-based-learning/) - TA’s approach to proficiencies at a schoolwide level centers on a set of five transferable skills. The TA Transferable Skills transcend specific academic subjects and can be applied in a variety of contexts, supporting our students’ growth and success during their time at TA and beyond. Thetford Academy’s 5 Transferable Skills Each transferable skill includes - [Academic Courses](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/academic-courses-old/) - View and Download Course Catalog Jump to a section Unified Arts Visual Arts Design Technology Drama Music Culinary Arts Humanities English Social Studies World Languages STEM Mathematics Science Engineering and Technology Wellness Physical Education & Health Outdoor Learning and Leadership Independent Study Challenge Course Unified Arts Arts courses at TA focus on artistic expression, creative - [Scoreboard](https://thetfordacademy.org/give/scoreboard/) - Support the Panthers with your gift today! The Athletic Leadership Council is raising money for two electronic scoreboards for the lower athletic fields at Thetford Academy. The scoreboards will be used for baseball, softball and soccer fields and be an asset to TA athletics for years to come. Watch the video above to hear directly - [Career and Technical Programs](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/career-and-technical-programs/) - Thetford Academy partners with River Bend Career and Technical Center and Hartford Area Career and Technology Center (HACTC) to offer technical education. TA juniors and seniors are eligible to apply for admission to all programs at River Bend Career and Technical Center or some programs at HACTC. Most courses are offered in a two-year sequence, - [Academics](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/) - Academics At TA, we encourage students to go beyond the core curriculum to dive deep into the topics that interest, challenge, and inspire them. When a student feels inspired, the sky is the limit. That’s why we work hard to understand how our students learn and what they are passionate about. Across the school community, - [Clubs and Activities](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/clubs-activities/) - During their time at TA, students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular clubs and activities. Club activities give students a chance to explore their interests and expand their learning beyond the classroom. Each year, clubs and activities at TA reflect the current interests and passions of the student body. Students are encouraged to propose their - [Homestay Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/isp-homestay/) - TA’s international students live with American families who are committed to sharing their lives with students from abroad. Living with a local family is the best way for international students to become immersed in American language and culture. The goal of TA’s homestay program is to support students through their academic and social transition into - [Diversity, Equity & Inclusion](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/diversity-inclusion/) - Thetford Academy is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion on our campus and in our community. Our mission “to celebrate the unique worth of all students, to nurture their strengths, and to challenge them to fulfill their potential” is at the center of what we do every day, and provides a foundation for this work. - [About Us](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/) - About Thetford Academy Thetford Academy is a classic New England town academy—an independent school with a public purpose. Founded in 1819, the Academy serves as the secondary school for Thetford, VT and neighboring towns. Today, over 300 students in grades 7-12 come to TA from throughout the Upper Valley region of Vermont and New Hampshire, - [From the Head of School](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/from-the-head-of-school/) - Welcome to TA’s website! Whatever brings you here – whether you are a current or prospective student, a panther parent or grandparent, a TA alum, a community supporter, a curious educator, or just an interested Upper Valley neighbor – we hope you find stories, facts, and program information about Thetford Academy that are useful and - [Annual Appeal](https://thetfordacademy.org/give/annual-appeal/) - A strong community fosters exploration and excellence. At TA, we know that students who feel supported and connected will achieve their academic, creative, and personal goals. It’s this sense of belonging—of community—that fosters exploration and excellence, and empowers every TA student to chart their own path. With opportunities from STEM to social justice, from theater - [Winter Athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/winter-athletics/) - Jump to a calendar: Alpine Skiing Basketball, Boys Varsity Basketball, Boys JV Basketball, Boys Middle School Basketball, Girls Varsity Basketball, Girls JV Basketball, Girls Middle School Indoor Track & Field Winter athletics at Thetford Academy include Alpine Skiing, Basketball, and Indoor Track & Field. Alpine Skiing Coaches: Amy Huyffer and Paul Dixon Subscribe to the - [Spring Athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/spring-athletics/) - Spring athletics at Thetford Academy includes Baseball, Track & Field, and Softball. Baseball Boys Varsity Baseball Head Coach: Phil Chaput Asst. Coaches: Andy Boyce Subscribe to the Boys Varsity Baseball Calendar calendar-plus-o Boys Junior Varsity Baseball Coach: Andy McGovern Coach: Barrett Williams Subscribe to the Boys JV Baseball Calendar calendar-plus-o Outdoor Track & - [Fall Athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/fall-athletics-2/) - Jump to a calendar: Cross County. High School Cross Country, Middle School Soccer, Boys Varsity Soccer, Boys JV Soccer, Boys Middle School Soccer, Girls Varsity Soccer, Girls JV Soccer, Girls Middle School Fall athletics at Thetford Academy includes Soccer, Cross Country, Golf, and Bass Fishing. Cross-Country High School Cross Country Coaches: Emily Silver, Joe Deffner - [Student Life](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/) - Student Life At Thetford Academy, we know student life is an important complement to academics. Extracurricular opportunities give students a chance to try new things, meet new friends, and explore their interests and passions. With three-season athletics and more than 20 different clubs and activities, there is a place for every student at TA. Clubs - [Special Education](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/special-education/) - In accordance with the Vermont Agency of Education Special Education regulations, Thetford Academy serves students from all categories of disability whose stated Individual Education Program (IEP) goals, objectives, and services can be met within the Academy setting. Special education at TA includes a continuum of services from consultation, referral, evaluation, case management, classroom accommodations, specialized - [Fall Athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/athletics/fall-sports-athletics/) - Jump to a calendar: Cross County. High School Cross Country, Middle School Soccer, Boys Varsity Soccer, Boys JV Soccer, Boys Middle School Soccer, Girls Varsity Soccer, Girls JV Soccer, Girls Middle School Fall athletics at Thetford Academy include Cross-Country and Soccer 2023 Cross-Country High School Cross Country Coaches: Emily Silver, Joe Deffner Cross Country Team - [Make Your Gift Keep Giving](https://thetfordacademy.org/make-your-gift-keep-giving/) - Use the form below to schedule a a recurring gift to Thetford Academy. Thank you for your support! - [TOP Summer 2023 Registration](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/top-summer/register-for-top-summer/) - The Thetford Outdoor Program offers several opportunities for Thetford Academy students to have immersive outdoor leadership experiences and adventures. Register now to join us on a 2023 TOP Summer adventure! Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 Exciting - [TOP Scholarship Application 2023](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/top-summer/top-scholarship-application-2023/) - It is our mission to make all of our academic and extracurricular opportunities accessible to every student. Scholarship support is available for all TOP Summer trips and programs. Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! Recent TA News Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 August, 2026 - [Trail Crew Application 2023](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/top-summer/trail-crew-application/) - In this week-long work experience, students will build and improve trail networks in the Thetford Hill State Forest, Upper Valley Land Trust property, and on TA’s vast, 295-acre forested campus. Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! Recent TA News Recent TA News New Student Welcome and Back to School Picnic 14 - [Poetry Slam 2022](https://thetfordacademy.org/poetry-slam-2022/) - Ben Mattern, 2024 - "Untitled" (Slam winner) The moment his hand left the wheel—of cheese,It began to summersault down the mountain, for it could not contain its glee, at finally being free.Down, down it went, careening past befuddled skiers and bamboozled snowboarders- that great cylindrical prism of provolone continued its pursuit forfreedom despite the sneaky fact - [History](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/history/) - Thetford Academy opened in February 1819, and was chartered by the State of Vermont on October 29, 1819. The constitution of Vermont called for free elementary schools in each town, a school in each county for studies above the elementary level, and one university for the state. The terms Grammar School and Academy were used - [Carrie Brennan Bio](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/from-the-head-of-school/carrie-brennan-bio/) - Carrie Brennan joined Thetford Academy as Head of School in July 2019. She brings deep experience in the field of education to her leadership role at TA, including years as a history teacher, high school principal, and professional development leader. Prior to her appointment at TA, Carrie was in Tucson, Arizona for 25 years, where she was - [Advisory Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/advisory-program/) - Advisory contributes to a school climate where students feel safe and connected and helps to foster an environment in which students can achieve personal, social/emotional, and academic success. TA’s advisory program is designed to help achieve the school mission and is integral to the academic engagement and student well-being goals of the strategic plan. Key - [TA Traditions](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/traditions/) - Thetford Academy celebrates the school’s community, history, and traditions with several annual events. These special days serve to not only honor the history of Thetford Academy, but to bring today’s students together to forge friendships and make memories that last a lifetime. TA Traditions Mountain Day Established in the 1970’s by Headmaster Fred Torrey, Mountain - [Library](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/library/) - With its central location, light-filled space, and dramatic mountain views, Thetford Academy’s library is the hub of the school. The library houses more than 8,500 books, 30 magazine subscriptions, and boasts a multitude of digital resources, including subscription databases, ebooks, and digital authoring tools. The library staff teaches students the 21st century skills needed to become - [Enrollment Form](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/enrollment-form/) - Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! - [TOP Summer Permission Form](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/top-summer-permission-form/) - Fill out my online form. - [TOP Trail Crew](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/top-trail-crew/) - Fill out my online form. - [TOP Summer 2021 Registration](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/thetford-outdoor-program/top-summer-2021-registration/) - Fill out my online form. - [Transcript Request Form](https://thetfordacademy.org/admissions/transcript-request-form/) - Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! - [Alumni Contact Information](https://thetfordacademy.org/about-ta/alumni/alumni-contact/) - Fill out my online form. Fill out my Wufoo form! - [Dual Enrollment](https://thetfordacademy.org/academics/dual-enrollment/) - Dual enrollment enables juniors and seniors who are Vermont residents to access up to two college courses (including online courses) with participating colleges and universities at no charge. Dual enrollment enables juniors and seniors who are Vermont residents to access up to two college courses (including online courses) with participating colleges and universities at no - [Student Work Gallery](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-work-gallery-spring-2020/) - We created this page to feature student projects during remote learning – 4th quarter, Spring 2020. TA Students: Send photos of your awesome work created at home to Patty McIlvaine, so that we can feature your creativity, ingenuity, innovation, hard work, and academic learning. Might be a project or assignment for a class – could - [Benefits](https://thetfordacademy.org/benefits/) - Dental Insurance Open enrollment effective date is August 1st, annually. To enroll in the current voluntary dental insurance plan offered by Thetford Academy, please complete a Northeast Delta Dental enrollment/change form and return it to the Finance office by July 15th. For employees who have experienced a qualifying events, such as loss of coverage, marriage, - [Student Advisory Program](https://thetfordacademy.org/student-life/student-advisory-program/) - The Advisory program has two goals: to ensure that every student is known well by at least one adult in the school each year, and to support students as they take responsibility for their learning. Advisory contributes to a school climate where students feel safe and connected and helps to foster an environment in which - [Social-Emotional Learning & Self Care Resources](https://thetfordacademy.org/social-emotional-learning/) - The Student Support Team oversees student wellness and success at TA. This team of amazingly skilled and caring staff meets weekly and coordinates student interventions for academic success and social-emotional support. Members include: School Nurse Sue Farrell, Dean of Students Siobhan Lopez, Director of Counseling Mark Pichette, Director of Special Education Deb Sanders-Dame, Student Assistance Provider Kara Toms, and Counselor Rebecca Walter. - [Landing Page](https://thetfordacademy.org/landing-page/) - Title of Page At TA, you have so many opportunities to try new things and challenge yourself. At Thetford Academy, we know student life is an important complement to academics. Extracurricular opportunities give students a chance to try new things, meet new friends, and explore their interests and passions. With three-season athletics and more than - [Interior Page](https://thetfordacademy.org/interior-page/) - The mission of the Thetford Outdoor Program is to ignite academic curiosity and foster environmental stewardship through outdoor exploration, recreation, and project-based, experiential learning. The Thetford Outdoor Program (TOP) launched in 2014 with the generous support of the Woodbury Foundation. TOP builds on TA’s long commitment to experiential and outdoor learning, and uses TA’s vast ## Image HotSpot - [Virtual Tour](https://thetfordacademy.org/cq_hotspot/virtual-tour/) - [Common Good Rendering 01](https://thetfordacademy.org/cq_hotspot/25735-2/) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/uncategorized/) - [News](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/news/) - [Parents](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/parents/) - [Arts](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/arts/) - [Academics](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/academics/) - [Alumni News](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/alumni-news/) - [Athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/athletics/) - [Counseling](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/counseling/) - [Outdoor Education](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/outdoor-education/) - [Health Office](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/student-health/) - [Head of School](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/head-of-school/) - [DEI](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/dei/) - [Alumni Profile](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/alumni-profile/) - [Student Life](https://thetfordacademy.org/category/student-life/) ## Tags - [Events](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/events/) - [Outdoor Education](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/outdoor-education/) - [alumni](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/alumni/) - [International](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/international/) - [soccer](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/soccer/) - [Counseling Office](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/counseling-office/) - [cross country](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/xcountry/) - [basketball](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/basketball/) - [softball](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/softball/) - [indoor track](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/indoor-track/) - [alpine](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/alpine/) - [TOP](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/top/) - [alpine skiing](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/alpine-skiing/) - [Health Office](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/health-office/) - [counseling-office](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/counseling-office-2/) - [DEI](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/dei/) - [robotics](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/robotics/) - [school garden](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/school-garden/) - [garden](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/garden/) - [vex robotics](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/vex-robotics/) - [clubs](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/clubs/) - [woods trail](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/woods-trail/) - [taaa](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/taaa/) - [founders' day](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/founders-day/) - [poetry out loud](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/poetry-out-loud/) - [drama](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/drama/) - [one act](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/one-act/) - [GTY](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/gty/) - [getting to y](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/getting-to-y/) - [odw](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/odw/) - [community service](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/community-service/) - [physics](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/physics/) - [godspell](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/godspell/) - [theater](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/theater/) - [baseball](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/baseball/) - [athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/athletics/) - [track and field](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/track-and-field/) - [spring track](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/spring-track/) - [arts](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/arts/) - [performing arts](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/performing-arts/) - [odw day](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/odw-day/) - [service learning](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/service-learning/) - [arts night](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/arts-night/) - [alumni profile](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/alumni-profile/) - [head of school](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/head-of-school/) - [baccalaureate](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/baccalaureate/) - [graduation](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/graduation/) - [class of 2023](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/class-of-2023/) - [state championship](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/state-championship/) - [track](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/track/) - [panthers](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/panthers/) - [class day](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/class-day/) - [championship](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/championship/) - [team photo](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/team-photo/) - [juneteenth](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/juneteenth/) - [schoolhouse rocks](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/schoolhouse-rocks/) - [concert](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/concert/) - [bluegrass](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/bluegrass/) - [good gravy](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/good-gravy/) - [summer reading](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/summer-reading/) - [teaching](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/teaching/) - [reading list](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/reading-list/) - [TAC](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/tac/) - [TOP Summer](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/top-summer/) - [back to school](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/back-to-school/) - [summer concert series](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/summer-concert-series/) - [lazer dad](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/lazer-dad/) - [inservice](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/inservice/) - [noah kahan](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/noah-kahan/) - [tuck's rock dojo](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/tucks-rock-dojo/) - [homecoming](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/homecoming/) - [mountain day](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/mountain-day/) - [9th grade retreat](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/9th-grade-retreat/) - [alumni soccer](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/alumni-soccer/) - [top outings](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/top-outings/) - [open house](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/open-house/) - [admissions](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/admissions/) - [compost](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/compost/) - [JAM](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/jam/) - [isp](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/isp/) - [fall play](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/fall-play/) - [martha jane rich theater](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/martha-jane-rich-theater/) - [performance](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/performance/) - [tickets](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/tickets/) - [STEM](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/stem/) - [veterans day](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/veterans-day/) - [assembly](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/assembly/) - [mountain biking](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/mountain-biking/) - [2025](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/2025/) - [hartford hurricanes](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/hartford-hurricanes/) - [vpa](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/vpa/) - [football](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/football/) - [taca](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/taca/) - [climate](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/climate/) - [student leaders](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/student-leaders/) - [leadership](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/leadership/) - [student life](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/student-life/) - [hulbert](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/hulbert/) - [class of 2028](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/class-of-2028/) - [8th grade](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/8th-grade/) - [teambuilding](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/teambuilding/) - [ski team](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/ski-team/) - [winter sports](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/winter-sports/) - [debate team](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/debate-team/) - [debate](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/debate/) - [high school athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/high-school-athletics/) - [senior night](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/senior-night/) - [one act play festival](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/one-act-play-festival/) - [sugaring](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/sugaring/) - [maple sugaring](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/maple-sugaring/) - [sugar shack](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/sugar-shack/) - [experiential learning](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/experiential-learning/) - [community](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/community/) - [community news](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/community-news/) - [student achievement](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/student-achievement/) - [little bellas](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/little-bellas/) - [day of giving](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/day-of-giving/) - [disc golf](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/disc-golf/) - [panther pride](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/panther-pride/) - [western terrestrials](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/western-terrestrials/) - [back to school picnic](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/back-to-school-picnic/) - [new student welcome](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/new-student-welcome/) - [playing fields](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/playing-fields/) - [flynn theater](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/flynn-theater/) - [cirque kikasse](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/cirque-kikasse/) - [West Philadelphia Orchestra](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/west-philadelphia-orchestra/) - [community event](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/community-event/) - [student interns](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/student-interns/) - [volunteers](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/volunteers/) - [college info](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/college-info/) - [college](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/college/) - [speech](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/speech/) - [haunted harvest](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/haunted-harvest/) - [annual fund](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/annual-fund/) - [give](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/give/) - [donate](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/donate/) - [one act play](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/one-act-play/) - [vermont state drama](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/vermont-state-drama/) - [phone-free](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/phone-free/) - [skiing](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/skiing/) - [team](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/team/) - [Burke Mountain](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/burke-mountain/) - [barre auditorium](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/barre-auditorium/) - [the aud](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/the-aud/) - [varsity athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/varsity-athletics/) - [chorus](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/chorus/) - [jeff seabaugh](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/jeff-seabaugh/) - [uvsdc](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/uvsdc/) - [camp](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/camp/) - [john brown](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/john-brown/) - [peters family employee of the year](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/peters-family-employee-of-the-year/) - [employee of the year](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/employee-of-the-year/) - [club fair](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/club-fair/) - [back to school night](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/back-to-school-night/) - [fall sports](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/fall-sports/) - [golf](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/golf/) - [bass fishing](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/bass-fishing/) - [ITP](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/itp/) - [Thespy Award](https://thetfordacademy.org/tag/thespy-award/) ## Sliders - [Sample: Full Screen Slider](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/full-screen-slider/) - [Homepage](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/homepage-slider/) - [Walking](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/walking/) - [Academics](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/academics/) - [Athletics](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/athletics/) - [Student Life](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/student-life/) - [About Us](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/about-us/) - [Admissions](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/admissions/) - [Give](https://thetfordacademy.org/slides-category/give/) ## Carousels - [Home Carousel 2](https://thetfordacademy.org/carousels-category/home-carousel-2/) - [Home Carousel Light](https://thetfordacademy.org/carousels-category/home-carousel-light/) - [Home Carousel Mini](https://thetfordacademy.org/carousels-category/home-carousel-mini/)