Boarding Schools  Cushing Academy

Cushing Academy www.cushing.org

“Founded in 1865, Cushing is an independent, college preparatory school for girls and boys in grades 9 through 12 and post-graduate. Our beautiful 162-acre campus is located in Ashburnham, Mass., just one hour west of Boston. Cushing is the school that students from all over the world go to get connected—to a superior college preparatory school, to a worldwide network of classmates, and to a school that will prepare them for the challenges of the 21st century.”

Cushing has a tradition of embracing the best of the future. We were founded in 1865 as a coeducational boarding school, more than a century before many other schools went co-ed. In the 1920s, Cushing was one of the first schools in the country to embrace globalism by recruiting foreign students, and today we proudly display the flags of the 76 countries from which our students have hailed. In the middle of the 20th century, Cushing was also one of the first schools in the nation to build a program that supports and mainstreams students with learning differences, a program we proudly continue today in our Academic Support department.

 Academics

Through a combination of solid foundation courses and innovative targeted programming, Cushing creates a learning experience that is transformative for every student, at every level. This is how we define academic excellence. You will be challenged to think critically and creatively, write effectively, express ideas persuasively, and collaborate with respect. Our wide range of subjects and formats will spark your imagination and open your eyes. Our unique partnerships with other academic institutes will bring renowned scholars to your doorstep and provide opportunities for one-of-a-kind internships and off-campus programs.

 Special Highlights

Scholars Program. Students are invited to apply for the Cushing Scholars Program, which provides an opportunity for further enrichment through participation in an exciting range of intellectual and artistic experiences. Guest speakers and off-campus opportunities drive discussion of current events and global issues. The Scholars meet with speakers and visiting scholars in special small-group discussions. Returning students will be invited to apply each spring; students new to Cushing will be invited to apply in the fall of their first year.

Student Life Curriculum. The Student Life Curriculum encompasses a variety of non-academic programs that take place throughout the year to encourage healthy living, environmental awareness, diversity/cultural awareness, community service, student leadership, and the pursuit of a virtuous life. Some of our programs are voluntary, while others get everyone involved.

 Top colleges attended by students

Boston College, Boston University, Brown University, Cornell, College of the Holy Cross, Dartmouth, George Washington, Hofstra, Parsons School of Design, Purdue University

 What the school looks for in students…

“This changes from student to student, but in general, students who are strong academically and will be a good fit in our community.”