A Message from the Head of School
Welcome to Franklin Academy!
I am delighted you are exploring our website to learn more about our school. At Franklin Academy, we believe that education is most powerful when it is strength-based, authentic, and rooted in community. Every student who joins us is recognized for their talents, passions, and potential, not just for their challenges. Our mission is to provide neurodivergent learners with a school experience that nurtures the whole person, academically, socially, and emotionally, because we know that growth in one area fuels growth in all others.
For nearly a quarter of a century, Franklin Academy has been transforming education by recognizing that student-centered learning leads to bountiful outcomes. Today, we are proud to be recognized as one of the best private schools in the State of Connecticut, ranked among the top 10 independent schools for performing arts, and acknowledged nationally as a leader in shaping the conversation around the experiences of neurodivergent students and their families.
What makes Franklin Academy vibrant is not only our academic excellence, but also the way our students fully engage in school life. In the classroom, students are challenged by expert faculty who create an environment where learning is exciting, personal, and meaningful. Beyond academics, our students are immersed in residential life, athletics, the arts, clubs, and leadership opportunities. Together, these experiences help students discover who they are, learn how to connect with others, and develop the skills to thrive as part of a community where authenticity matters. At Franklin, students are encouraged to be themselves, challenge themselves, and explore a life of endless possibilities.
A hallmark of Franklin Academy is our unmatched four-year college and career readiness curriculum. We know that complex transitions—whether to higher education or the workforce—require more than just strong academics. Our integrated program builds executive functioning, social-emotional skills, and independence into every facet of school life, ensuring students not only succeed here but are prepared to carry those skills into the future. From dual – enrollment courses with the University of Connecticut to internships in industries ranging from cybersecurity to the arts, Franklin students graduate with the confidence, strategies, and experiences to thrive in whatever path they pursue.
Just as importantly, Franklin Academy is a partnership. We believe that empowering families empowers students. Through consistent communication, intentional collaboration, and shared planning, families become active partners in supporting their child’s journey. Our alumni and parent communities remain engaged long after graduation, mentoring current students and modeling what fulfilling, independent lives can look like.
Franklin Academy is more than a school—it is a dynamic community where young people discover their strengths, deepen their relationships, and prepare for a purposeful future. I invite you to visit our campus and experience firsthand why Franklin Academy is one of the most innovative and inspiring schools for neurodivergent learners in the country.
With the Warmest Welcome,
Dr. Alexander Morris-Wood
Head of School
The Franklin Academy Student
At Franklin Academy, the term neurodivergent describes students who think, learn, and process the world in ways that differ from traditional expectations. It captures a broad range of learners without reducing anyone to a diagnosis. Instead of focusing on labels, we focus on the whole person: their strengths, their growth, and how they engage in classrooms, residential life, and the wider community.
Our students are curious, capable, and academically oriented. Many are preparing for college and thrive when they can pair their intellectual potential with meaningful structure, strong relationships, and clear pathways for independence. While a diagnosis does not define them, many of our students may have profiles that include AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder, Specific Learning Disabilities, or co-occurring anxiety or depression.
What unites our community is not a category, but a shared understanding. Neurodivergent students benefit from an environment where executive functioning support, social-emotional learning, and personalized academic guidance are woven into every part of the day. At Franklin Academy, neurodivergence is recognized as a dimension of human diversity, and our approach is built around honoring each student’s individuality while helping them grow the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and life.
2025-26 Student Demographics
97 Students
20 States and Washington DC
4 International Countries
48% Male Identifying
39% Female Identifying
13% Gender Non-Conforming
16% Students of Color
37% Participate in Varsity Athletics
41% Participate in Performing Arts
Here kids get to be themselves. At this sweet little school, my daughter got to have an extraordinary high school experience.
History
Twenty-five years ago, Franklin Academy was founded in response to a painful truth: traditional schools were failing bright, neurodivergent students. Too often, these remarkable young people – full of curiosity, creativity, and potential – were misunderstood, overlooked, or left to navigate systems that were never designed with their learning profiles in mind. Families were searching for a place where their children could be seen, supported, and celebrated. Where their children could belong to an inclusive, welcoming community. Where their children could thrive academically – and socially. Where authenticity and their children’s strengths and passions were encouraged and revered. Franklin Academy was created to be that place.
A quarter century later, the need is every bit as urgent. Across the country, schools continue to struggle to meet the complex needs of neurodivergent learners. Many students still sit in classrooms feeling out of step, despite their intelligence and capabilities. The gaps that existed 25 years ago persist today – gaps in understanding, in programming, in expertise, and in expectations.
This is why Franklin Academy’s mission has never been more relevant, and why our work continues to matter so profoundly. Franklin was established to lead, and it continues to lead – with a model intentionally designed for neurodivergent students, not adapted as an afterthought. Our faculty understand how these students learn, think, and – well, just are. Our curriculum emphasizes executive functioning, social integration, self-advocacy, and resilience. Our community offers belonging and authentic connection. And our outcomes speak for themselves.
Every year, Franklin graduates young adults who are fully prepared for the demands of college and the evolving landscape of modern careers. They leave us with the academic foundation, practical skills, and personal confidence needed to thrive – because their strengths have been recognized, their challenges addressed, and their voices elevated. Franklin Academy alumni have more than twice the national college graduation rate for neurodivergent students.
Franklin Academy was founded to fill a void. Twenty-five years later, we remain at the forefront, ensuring that bright neurodivergent students receive the education they deserve and the future they are capable of achieving. Our founding purpose continues to be our driving purpose: to unlock potential, to champion possibility, and to prepare each student for the meaningful, successful life ahead.
Mission
Franklin Academy creates a community-focused boarding and day school where students with unique learning styles develop and strengthen academic and social competencies vital to the pursuit of college goals, professional aspirations, and fulfilling lives.
To fulfill this mission:
Students belong to a school community where you feel safe, connected, understood, and supported.
Students grow into independent, responsible young adults ready to pursue your interests and passions.
Alumni succeed because you understand your own strengths and challenges, are able to self-advocate, and have the skills necessary to move ahead as life-long learners.
Leadership Team
Cabinet
- Alexander Morris-Wood, Head of School
- Sara Gould, Dean of Academic Affairs
- Josh Acocella-Stollerman, Dean of Campus Wellness & Student Development
- Lee Barsom, Director of School Operations
- Chelsea Lazos, Dean of Students
- Cindy Pope, Dean of Enrollment Management & Strategic Initiatives
- Kinsley Rausch-Dudzic, Dean of Advancement & Alumni Relations
Board of Trustees
- Belinda Brennan: Chair (P’10, P’17)
- Robert Sherlock: Vice-Chair
- Norma Fox: Treasurer
- Nancy Altschuler
- Bruce Dutch
- Jodi Glou
- Denise Mann
- Michele Petryk (P’17)
- Henry Schreiber
- Fong Wang (P’18)
- David Young
Accreditation
Franklin Academy is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Accreditation means that our school meets the criteria for those standards of excellence by which the “educational community assures the high quality of each member school.” NEASC commends Franklin Academy for creating an academic program and residential community that completely matches its mission. Additionally, Franklin Academy is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, comprising the best private independent schools in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Franklin Academy
Q: What is Franklin Academy?
A: Franklin Academy is a private boarding and day school in East Haddam, Connecticut, that serves students who learn differently. We specialize in helping bright, college-bound students in grades 8–12 (plus a post-graduate year) build academic skills, confidence, and independence in a supportive, structured community.
Q: What makes Franklin Academy different from other schools?
A: Unlike traditional schools, Franklin Academy was designed specifically for students with learning differences such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or executive function challenges. Our holistic approach combines academics, social-emotional learning, and life skills training so students can reach their full potential.
Q: Who are the ideal students for Franklin Academy?
A: Our students are intelligent, creative, and curious — but may struggle with organization, social interaction, or traditional classroom settings. Franklin provides the right structure, empathy, and teaching methods for students who thrive outside the “one-size-fits-all” model of education.
Academics and Learning Environment
Q: How does Franklin Academy teach students with ADHD or Autism?
A: We use individualized teaching strategies and small class sizes to support different learning profiles. Our teachers integrate executive function coaching, visual supports, and social communication tools into everyday lessons — helping students learn how they learn best.
Q: What academic programs does Franklin Academy offer?
A: The curriculum includes core subjects like math, science, English, and history, along with electives in art, technology, digital media, and wellness. We emphasize experiential learning, where students apply academic knowledge through hands-on projects and real-world connections.
Q: Does Franklin prepare students for college?
A: Absolutely. College readiness is at the heart of our program. Students receive guidance on time management, self-advocacy, and goal setting. Our College and Career Counseling program supports applications, essays, and interviews so students graduate ready for higher education or professional paths.
Q: How does Franklin measure student progress?
A: We focus on mastery and personal growth, not just letter grades. Students receive regular feedback through project-based learning, self-reflection, and individualized evaluations that track progress in academics and social-emotional development.
Student Life and Community
Q: Is Franklin Academy a boarding school?
A: Yes. Franklin is a boarding school where most students live on campus during the academic year. The residential experience helps students develop independence, practice daily routines, and strengthen friendships within a safe, structured environment. Day students also have the option to commute.
Q: What is life like on campus?
A: Each day at Franklin balances academics, recreation, and community time. Students attend classes in the morning, enjoy clubs and activities in the afternoon, and participate in evening events, from movie nights to outdoor adventures. Our community feels like a family — inclusive, supportive, and fun.
Q: What extracurricular activities are available?
A: Franklin offers art, drama, music, athletics, student government, outdoor exploration, and community service opportunities. Clubs often evolve based on student interests, giving everyone a chance to lead and contribute.
Support and Student Wellness
Q: What kind of support do students receive?
A: Every student at Franklin Academy is surrounded by a network of support — including advisors, counselors, and teachers trained in working with neurodiverse learners. We integrate executive function coaching, social thinking programs, and emotional wellness into everyday routines.
Q: How does Franklin support mental health and emotional growth?
A: We take a proactive approach to wellness. Our counseling team provides both individual and group support, while dorm life teaches essential interpersonal and life skills. Students learn to advocate for themselves and manage challenges with empathy and confidence.
Q: Is Franklin a therapeutic school?
A: Franklin Academy is not a clinical or therapeutic school — but it is highly supportive. We work with students who benefit from structure, encouragement, and skill-building in a positive, non-judgmental environment.
Admissions and Tuition
Q: What grades are offered at Franklin Academy?
A: We welcome students entering grades 8 through 12, plus a post-graduate (PG) program for students who need an additional year of academic or social preparation before college.
Q: How can families apply?
A: Start by completing an inquiry form on our website at fa-ct.org. Our Admissions team will contact you to learn about your child’s needs, arrange a tour, and guide you through the application and interview process.
Q: Does Franklin Academy offer financial aid or scholarships?
A: Yes. Franklin is committed to accessibility and offers need-based financial aid to qualifying families. The Admissions team can help you navigate the financial aid process and deadlines.
Q: Can families tour the campus?
A: Absolutely. We encourage parents and students to visit our East Haddam campus to see the school community in action. Campus tours, virtual sessions, and open houses are available year-round.
College and Beyond
Q: What do Franklin Academy graduates do after high school?
A: Franklin graduates attend a wide variety of colleges and universities across the U.S., including liberal arts schools, technical programs, and creative colleges. Others pursue gap years, internships, or professional experiences that match their goals and strengths.
Q: How does Franklin prepare students for independent living?
A: Through residential life, structured routines, and practical skill-building, students learn how to manage their time, care for themselves, and make responsible decisions. These skills help them transition smoothly into college and adulthood.
Additional Information
Q: Where is Franklin Academy located?
A: Our campus is at 140 River Road, East Haddam, Connecticut 06423 — surrounded by natural beauty and designed to support a calm, focused learning environment.
Q: Does Franklin Academy have a non-discrimination policy?
A: Yes. Franklin Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin in its programs, admissions, or hiring.
Q: How can I learn more?
A: Visit fa-ct.org to learn more about our programs, admissions, and student life. You can also contact our Admissions Office directly to speak with a member of our team or schedule a personalized tour.
