Thornton Academy
Renowned for its high‐caliber academics and athletics, extracurriculars, and award‐winning visual and performing arts, Thornton Academy helps students reach their full potential and flourish in a changing world.
Learning in a diverse and inclusive community with students from over 35 countries and throughout the Northeast, Thornton Academy students are free to express their individual ideas, cultures, and dreams.
By the numbers
Be Who You Are & Become Who You Want to Be
Thornton Academy is a co‐educational, private boarding and day school serving grades 6 through 12. Situated in the vibrant community of Saco on the southern coast of Maine, Thornton Academy is surrounded by some of the finest beaches, snow skiing, scenic areas, and cultural offerings throughout New England. Thornton Academy is 90 minutes from Boston by bus and train, and 15 minutes away from Maine's largest city, Portland. Portland is home to award-winning restaurants and was recently named one of America's Most Livable Cities.
In addition to the wide breadth of opportunities available in one of the safest states in the U.S., what distinguishes Thornton Academy from others is its size. Thanks to an enrollment of 1,500 students, we're able to offer an incredible number of classes, clubs, and sports. There is truly something for everyone. While daily life is bustling on campus, our boarding program, with 180 students from 35 countries, offers a family-like atmosphere where students are guided through their teenage years with careful attention. It's the best of both worlds: a large school with many offerings, and a small boarding program, all nestled in a safe and cozy town with close proximity to exciting city life.
Arts
With over 30 courses in visual and performing arts, as well as a four-year dance program, students interested in the arts are encouraged to pursue their full potential in any medium they choose.
STEM
Our classes in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics get students ready to pursue careers in engineering, medicine, and more. We offer a rigorous and broad-based STEM program, one that is among the most advanced in New England.
Advanced Academics
With the ability to choose from 26 AP courses, 40+ honors courses, and six foreign languages, Thornton Academy has options available for students who decide to deeply explore topics and fields that interest them.
Athletics
Athletics are an integral part of the Thornton Academy experience, whether students are on the field or cheering in the stands. Our teams have won more than 50 state championships, and we offer more than 50 teams at many different levels to make sports accessible to all students, whether they are new to a sport or a potential New England champion.
Extracurricular Offerings
Each year, students form and run over 40 clubs with the support of faculty advisors. Clubs encompass a wide variety of interests, from Robotics Club to Anglers' Society, and are a great way for students to master soft skills, make friends, and explore new hobbies.
Boarding Program
Thornton Academy is a vibrant school with 90% day students and a tight-knit international boarding community of 180 students from over 30 countries. Dorms are a few steps from the dining hall and classroom buildings, and our Residential Life team and on-campus nurse give the highest level of care and offer fun weekend and vacation activities.
Real Talk
Let’s grow!
Be who you are and become who you want to be. Join the Thornton Academy community.