SA Upper School students visited NC State, guided by NCSU Senior Stella Sophia. This immersive experience included hands-on activities in four chemistry labs, a meal in the dining hall, and an insightful visit to the Hunt Library. These outings exemplify SA's commitment to experiential learning, enriching our students' academic journeys and nurturing their wayfinding for life after high school.
Salisbury Academy's Upper School is dedicated to unlocking the unique potential of each student. Our holistic approach to education fosters success across multiple dimensions, empowering students to become confident future leaders and proactive, lifelong learners.
As a recognized leader in education in Rowan County for over three decades, Salisbury Academy now offers an evolved 9th through 12th-grade experience in downtown Salisbury at 316 Depot Street, designed to meet the demands of our rapidly changing world.
Grounded in research and best practices, our Upper School curriculum blends core knowledge with future-ready skills and essential habits for success. The result is a dynamic learning community where each student is deeply engaged and prepared for their brightest possible future.
We believe education should be PERSONALIZED
Salisbury Academy designs instructional strategies to cultivate each student’s potential, encouraging students to achieve academic excellence and personal growth. By offering a learning environment that adjusts to individual needs, we motivate students to strive higher and feel ownership in their education. learn more
We believe education should be CONNECTED
Our community-based learning experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in diverse settings, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Learning connected to the real-world not only makes the experience more dynamic but also instills essential life skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving. learn more
We believe education should be FULFILLING
Our programs encourage students to step out of their comfort zones and confront new challenges, fostering self-assurance and adaptability. As students navigate these diverse experiences, they gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their capabilities. learn more
We believe education should be PURPOSEFUL
By fostering a strong community spirit and deep engagement, we empower students to pursue their interests and prepare for life beyond high school, graduating as self-assured and proactive individuals. learn more
Hear from our Students, Teachers, and Families
"SA gives students the flexibility and the freedom to shape our own learning. It's a unique school dynamic where we get plenty of one-on-one support, yet also have the independence to explore. Our teachers are dedicated and challenge us in a positive way. Students at SA are committed, involved, and motivated. They take on leadership roles, actively participate in clubs and organizations, and are always eager to be part of something bigger."
-Levi, 10th grade student
“Being a dual-enrollment student at Catawba and SA brings a freedom that I really enjoy. The teachers at SA are extremely helpful and nice, and classes prepare you academically and for society. Having a coffee shop around the corner to walk to with friends is amazing too! We even know all of our teachers’ coffee orders at Koco Java.”
-Kylie, 11th grade student
"I love SA because, as an independent school, it provides students with unique learning opportunities that foster personal growth and broaden their perspectives, helping them become well-rounded individuals."
-Meredith Williams, Upper School Head
"One of the best kept secrets of Salisbury Academy's Upper School is their foresight and commitment to exposing students to colleges and preparing them for their lives beyond high school. Beginning their freshman year, students are not only counseled on preparing to choose and apply to colleges, but they are provided with opportunities to visit college campuses and talk with college representatives."
"The Upper School might be a small high school, but the gift of college exposure is very wide and vast. The icing on the cake is that students are supported each step of the way from test prep, determining areas of passion and careers, applying, and finally, graduating and heading off to college. This is not only a gift to the students, but to their parents as well."
-Lea Anne Thomas, Upper School Parent