Salisbury Academy was founded in 1993 by a group of parents who shared the philosophy that children learn best when they are actively engaged and challenged. This philosophy continues to guide teachers and staff in the creation of a rich, child-centered learning environment that uses each student’s strengths as an avenue to learning. Our priority is teaching children to become life-long learners who strive for depth of understanding and excellence.
We believe that the early school years establish the foundation for life-long intellectual and social growth. Therefore, our thoughtfully charted curriculum is specific and structured but rich with opportunities for creative expression and maximizing “teachable moments.” We utilize the Core Knowledge Sequence, Sadlier-Oxford Math, Houghton-Mifflin English, Recipe for Reading, Orton Gillingham Phonics, and (in the Lower School) Handwriting Without Tears, among other curricular resources which combine to provide an inter-disciplinary approach that integrates the study of language, math, social studies and science. Students also receive instruction in foreign language, technology, art, music, and physical education. For a more detailed discussion of the curriculum, please visit grade pages.
Our classrooms are large, visually appealing and provide warm learning environments with furniture arrangements conducive to small-group and individual learning. Grades junior kindergarten through fourth have a lead teacher and an assistant. Beginning in grade five, students have specialized instructors for each subject.
We aim to have children leave Salisbury Academy with a strong sense of self and with the ability to think clearly, function well academically, and embrace the challenges ahead with confidence and resilience. Eager students, engaged minds, supportive and participative parents, and dedicated teachers and staff combine to create the thriving, energetic, and caring place we call Salisbury Academy.
Our Approach
In our early education group, your child will be nourished by imaginative play that engages the senses, healthful routines to encourage sound habits, and loving relationships that teach goodness and kindness.
Exploration and Enjoying Being Little
Supported by gentle and joyful teachers who set the tone for each day, 3-year-olds at Salisbury Academy will enjoy being little. Their innate curiosity makes them hungry to learn, and concrete experiences are key. By using their senses, they will learn at their own pace, presented with beautiful opportunities throughout every day. Exploration of the natural world, pattern play, rhythm and music, physical movement, and language development through relational conversations all await them in our program.
Healthful Routines
We believe having threes participate in the routines that make up their day is part of growing and learning about themselves and others. Whether using a fork properly or putting away playthings, your child will be nurtured through routines that provide security and stability while they are away from home.
Play as the Foundation for Learning
Play is the work of young children. Research increasingly points to play as the foundation for academic learning. Imaginative and free play lead to healthy development in our youngest learners, not to mention the sheer enjoyment of the play itself.
Enrollment Information: Becoming a Jaguar Cub
The 3-year-old class size is limited. Salisbury Academy's 3-year-old program is full-day and runs for the duration of the school year. Students must be age 3 by August 31 as well as potty-trained. Tuition for the 2024-25 3-year-old program is $9,500. Families can choose to pay tuition in one payment, twice per year, or in monthly installments. Financial aid is not available for our 3-year-old program.
Visit our Program
We invite you to join us for a visit. Your own senses will be engaged as you experience our nurturing, relational, play-based haven where good things happen in threes.