Our Philosophy

Thayer Academy's mission is to inspire a diverse community of students to moral, intellectual, aesthetic, and physical excellence so that each may rise to honorable achievement and contribute to the common good.

Head of School's Welcome

Head of School Chris Fortunato P '26, '28
Chris M. Fortunato P '26, '28
Head of School

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to Thayer Academy. I invite you to explore our website and learn more about Thayer’s dynamic and diverse community. Thayer offers a rich and challenging curriculum; world-class programs for athletes and artists of all abilities; and an array of meaningful leadership, travel, and service opportunities. However, what truly distinguishes a Thayer education are the trusting and meaningful relationships between faculty and students and the spirit of collaboration among our students. These relationships provide the foundation for our exceptional academic preparation and enable our students to be truly known, connected, and prepared for success at Thayer, in college, and beyond. 

Together as a faculty, and in partnership with students and families, we take an individualized approach to teaching and learning. We invest in discovering, understanding, and celebrating our students’ authentic stories, talents, and interests. This allows us to challenge and inspire them to grow into curious, brave, and generous learners, performers, athletes, artists, and friends.

Thayer students are introduced and connected to a wealth of people, ideas, experiences, and opportunities both on and beyond our campus. Our supportive community fosters a sense of belonging, joy, and trust that enables our students to dare to be bold and creative thinkers who can more fully take advantage of the best of Thayer’s traditions and our forward-thinking curriculum and programs. And our commitment in principle and practice to the dignity of all and to the common good empowers our students to become young leaders of purpose, empathy, and character. This is what Thayer stands for. I am proud to lead Thayer into its next exciting chapter as we prepare our students to embrace the myriad opportunities the rapidly changing world has in store for them.

I enthusiastically invite you to visit Thayer’s campus and to meet the students and faculty who fill our community every day with a love of learning, integrity, friendship, and the remarkable Thayer spirit.


About Thayer