Putney was founded on the belief that to have a democracy, citizens should actively participate in the decisions that will impact their lives whether economic, social or political. In order to obtain that goal, we must begin by creating a highly engaged citizenry that can ask questions, think critically, is respectful of diversity, and can work collaboratively for the benefit of all. To achieve this at our progressive school, we begin in the classroom. Students are the center of their education and learn to work within a community that they co-create with their fellow classmates.
What is a Progressive School?
Your Progressive Boarding School in New England
At Putney through our progressive education lens, we allow students to shine by guiding them to cultivate their inner spark of creativity and intellect to set the world of ideas ablaze. With student-centered classrooms and project-based learning at the core of everything we do, students gain access to how they can reach their full potential.
Our school is a laboratory where students become scientists of their own education.
Our teachers focus on providing students the tools necessary not just to answer questions but to create good questions and to be able to find the answer to those questions, and ultimately to be able to share their own knowledge with the wider world. These tools are essential to creating lifelong learners who are active participants in the world they create. Students discover the ways in which they thrive, and learn how to apply those skills to their everyday life. With a choice of opportunities to express themselves from inside the classroom to on the stage, each and every student has the freedom to excel in their own individual way.
Progressive Education and AI
Like our students, we as a school are constantly evolving. Technological advances and the emergence of artificial intelligence, raise many new questions. We are poised to respond ethically and responsibly in a way that aligns with our fundamental beliefs.
Keep Exploring
Project Weeks
During the end of each academic semester, students have the opportunity to complete two projects that employ skills they have acquired in their academic and non-academic program during the semester.
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Work Program
Our Work Program has been a unique part of Putney since the beginning. Every student contributes to our community through work, which instills leadership, resilience, and teamwork. We work hard,
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Student Leadership
At Putney you will practice leadership and learn through experience. Students apply for and are elected to over 50 leadership positions all of which lead vital work at the school.
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Visit Putney
Putney is a full experience. From the sights and sounds to the people and workspaces, you’ll feel how alive our campus is as soon as you get here. See us
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