Welcome Brookfield Academy! During my 37-year tenure as a teacher, coach, and administrator at Brookfield Academy, I have had the privilege of growing alongside this remarkable school. My own development as an educator has been shaped by the leadership, vision, and words of wisdom from past leaders. I am grateful for their example and, while serving for the past five years as Head of School, have strived to lead Brookfield Academy with the same deep commitment to our Mission, our students, and the Five Stars that have defined our school since its founding in 1962.
As you search for the right educational environment for your family, you will find that most independent schools speak of their unique mission, academic excellence, and character values. So, what stands out about Brookfield Academy? My response is simple: it is the people who represent every facet of this outstanding school.
Central to our proven success is the Academy Triangle - Students, Parents, and Teachers - working together in the best interests of students. I emphasize the word together because a Brookfield Academy education is strengthened by the partnership of our entire community. We learn from one another. And whether through successes or mistakes, each experience brings value to the growth and development of the individual.
We take academics seriously as a college preparatory school; but education is about far more than gaining knowledge or earning high grades. Each individual is encouraged to grow intellectually, personally, and morally through daily experiences. The learning extends well beyond the classroom. Students are presented with opportunities to participate in a wide variety of athletics, clubs, activities, and the arts, allowing them to develop their individual talents, leadership skills, and character. In the process, they learn the importance of becoming responsible and upstanding individuals. As one of our school’s Founders, William L. Law, so brilliantly stated:
“The Academy student learns to adapt to life, pursue a career and make a living—but if that is all that we have learned then we have failed. He graduates with firm moral principles, with an understanding of and an appreciation for his culture and a sense of responsibility to every person.” Those words remain as relevant today as when they were written by Mr. Law in 1981.
This year, the schoolwide theme, Commit to Character, reinforces an important part of our Mission. Character is developed not only through the choices we make and the responsibilities we accept, but also by the way we treat others and how we set individual moral standards. Throughout the year, we will challenge our students to understand that character is more than a word for making good choices; rather, it is something we demonstrate each day through positive actions, kindness, and mutual respect.
Striving for excellence at Brookfield Academy is encouraged; however, it does not mean reaching perfection. Instead, each student is nurtured and inspired to reach his or her potential, accepting challenges, reflecting on great performances, accepting shortfalls with humility, and having the determination to try again. Whether in the classroom, on the stage, on the athletic field, or in service to others, we encourage our students to pursue excellence while remaining grounded in strong character.
Brookfield Academy is a vibrant campus set on more than 100 acres. On my frequent walks throughout campus, I have the privilege of visiting stimulating, interactive classrooms and seeing students in action beyond the school day - busy with extracurricular activities, athletic events, performances, and competitions. The daily communications between students, faculty, and staff present a cohesive community with a shared passion for learning. We are truly blessed!
I invite you to explore our website to see what makes Brookfield Academy such a special place. If you believe an independent school education may be beyond your family’s financial reach, I encourage you to come and learn more. Through our tuition assistance and scholarship programs, there are options to consider that could make a Brookfield Academy education more affordable than you think.
Brookfield Academy is about family, community, tradition, and a passion for learning. It is about teaching students to think critically and independently while remaining grounded in our Five Stars of Truth, Intellect, Character, Individuality, and Heritage. Come and see Brookfield Academy for yourself. Walk our campus, visit our classrooms, meet our teachers and students, and experience firsthand what our school can do for you and your family. I think you will be impressed!
Mr. Douglas Ricci