Boston and New England · Newcastle, Maine · LA Academy

School introduction

The school is in Newcastle, Maine, on a hillside overlooking the Damariscotta River and the surrounding towns. A non-sectarian high school serving local families, it also welcomes international boarders, bringing a community-school atmosphere together with friendships across cultures.

Its educational range encompasses the humanities, sciences, mathematics, languages and applied technology. Art, sport and clubs offer further ways to explore interests, while design and fabrication spaces connect academic ideas with practical problems. This breadth gives room to hands-on work and creative expression alongside academic study.

This non-sectarian school serves grades 9–12, bringing together local day students and international boarders.

The school has an on-campus boarding program, with clubs, sports, music and weekend activities forming part of campus life. Course placement, prerequisites, accommodation and activity access for a semester student are confirmed individually. Individual course selections depend on placement, prerequisites and availability.

Curriculum

Regular high-school study includes English, mathematics, science, social studies and world languages, with additional provision in English-language learning, wellness and the arts. Advanced study spans areas such as literature, calculus, statistics, science and computing, with appropriate preparation and course requirements.

Design, engineering and technology teaching develops problem-solving through systems thinking, iteration, communication and teamwork. Students connect identified needs with possible solutions and practical making. Resources such as digital photography, 3D printing, woodworking and metalworking link scientific ideas, visual design and fabrication skills.

Alongside English, mathematics, science, social studies and languages, its curriculum includes design, engineering, technology and the arts. The 2026–27 curriculum includes options such as computer-aided design, introductory web, game and app development, digital photography, graphic design, woodworking and metalworking.

Arts, Sports and School Life

The arts include visual work, choral and instrumental music, and theatre. Ensembles and productions develop listening, coordination and expression; media such as ceramics and graphic design offer other routes into creative practice.

Seasonal athletics include soccer, cross-country, basketball, swimming, tennis and track. Clubs range from coding, debate and robotics to outdoor activities and community service. Residential life supports independence, shared responsibilities and a sense of belonging through staff guidance and community activities.

A semester student’s courses, sports and activities depend on preparation, season, prerequisites and availability. Discuss the individual study plan with an advisor.

School features

• Non-sectarian grades 9–12
• Design, technology and arts offerings
• On-campus boarding and activities

Grades available for short-term study & entry requirements

Eligible grades

G9–G12

School application requirements

Individual grade placement, language readiness, prerequisites and available places must be confirmed. Grade eligibility does not guarantee admission.

This is a semester-study option, not a two-week classroom visit. Applicable study and entry requirements are assessed for the actual arrangement.

Dates, duration & fees

Duration

At least one semester

Dates

Dates, fees, accommodation and availability are confirmed after a suitable family is matched. No price or place is reserved by viewing this page.

Fees

Ask an adviser

Accommodation & documents

Attendance options

On-campus boarding, individually confirmed

The school has an on-campus boarding program, with clubs, sports, music and weekend activities forming part of campus life. Course placement, prerequisites, accommodation and activity access for a semester student are confirmed individually. Individual course selections depend on placement, prerequisites and availability.

Documents typically needed

Grade, academic and language background, intended dates and housing needs; school-specific application documents are confirmed after matching.

More campus & classroom photos

School photos will be added when available.

Location

View regional map

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Map attribution

Airports are arrival-planning references, not the school location. Confirm flights, connections and onward school transport separately.