The Putney School is unique. We value broad learning experiences. Our founder, Carmelita Hinton, was a great believer in John Dewey's philosophy of learning by doing, better known as a progressive education. At Putney we discuss more than we lecture. We won't just teach you science. You, your peers and your teacher will explore science, the history of science and the ramifications of using science for the common good. And that's just science. Arts such as painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, weaving, pottery, music and dance are integral parts of our rigorous academic program.

The classroom curriculum is reinforced daily with a student work program on our 500-acre dairy farm, outdoor sports in the afternoon and visual and performing arts activities in the evening. It's a full day, but there's plenty of room to focus on special interests. Project Week (ten days, actually) takes the place of final exams at the end of each semester. Students design or choose two projects related to their academic and out-of-classroom endeavors. Guided by faculty sponsors, you'll work in groups or alone to delve deeper into the areas you'd really like to own. Last year, students planned, assembled and installed a one-kilowatt-hour wind generator that powers the lights in our dining hall. (Visit our website to see more projects.)

Our graduates go to Ivy League schools but only if they really want to. They're just as likely to attend Reed or Oberlin or the Rhode Island School of Design. We help them discover their next destination. If you'd like to have a unique educational experience on the way to yours, and know how to work hard when you get there, give us a call and arrange a visit.

LD types supported: Mild Learning Differences