History

Early Years and Development

Cushing Academy kicked off its journey back in 1865, founded by Thomas Parkman Cushing, a Boston merchant. It all started with a vision and a bequest from Cushing’s will. Fast forward to 1875, the academy opened its doors, with Edwin Pierce leading the way as the first principal. Back then, it was among the pioneering coeducational boarding schools on the East Coast, hosting 66 boys and 56 girls. And guess what? It’s been coed ever since.

Campus and Facilities

Imagine a 162-acre campus nestled in Ashburnham, Massachusetts, offering breathtaking views of the town center and nearby mountains. Over the years, this place has seen some serious upgrades. In 2009, they turned the Fisher-Watkins Library into a modern learning hub, decked out with e-readers and e-book databases. Talk about keeping up with the times!

Academic and Extracurricular Programs

Cushing Academy isn’t messing around when it comes to academics. They’ve got a robust curriculum with a special focus on leadership, arts, and athletics. With 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses on the menu and a bunch of faculty with advanced degrees, you know they mean business. Plus, they’ve got something for everyone, including students with mild learning differences. Think 36 athletic teams across 13 sports and a boatload of arts programs.

Notable Alumni

The academy boasts an impressive lineup of alumni, from the legendary Bette Davis to the one and only John Cena. And let’s not forget about His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, and Meghan Duggan, captain of the 2018 U.S. Women’s Olympic Hockey Team. Talk about rubbing shoulders with greatness!

Community and Alumni Engagement

With over 9,000 alumni spread across the globe, the Cushing Academy network is tight-knit and thriving. They’re all about staying connected through events, social media groups, and giving back to the school’s annual fund. And hey, who wouldn’t want to swing by for the annual Alumni Weekend? It’s like a big family reunion, minus the awkward small talk.

Mission and Values

At Cushing Academy, they’re all about nurturing curious, creative, and confident leaders. Their core values? Think intellectual challenge, creativity, self-esteem, social responsibility, and respect for diversity. It’s not just about hitting the books; it’s about shaping well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world.

Recent Developments

Cushing Academy isn’t resting on its laurels. Nope, they’re all about pushing boundaries and staying ahead of the curve. With a slew of innovations and expansions in recent years, they’re not just a top-ranked private school in Massachusetts; they’re a force to be reckoned with. From the classroom to the playing field, they’re setting the bar high and prepping students for whatever comes their way.