Phillips Andover Academy

Often referred to as Andover, the academy was founded by Samuel Phillips, Jr., during the American Revolution. Paul Revere designed the school's seal, and John Hancock signed its Act of Incorporation. Andover seeks students from diverse ethnic, racial, socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds, drawing students from nearly every state and roughly 30 foreign countries and providing financial aid for both needy and middle-class families.

With some 300 course offerings in 18 academic departments, the curriculum comprises a required core of studies fundamental to a liberal education and includes elective courses designed to address individual interests. Courses at the Advanced Placement level and beyond are offered in virtually every department. Among several complementary programs are an exchange with a school in China, as well as School Year Abroad, which offers juniors and seniors a full academic year of study in China, France, Spain or Italy. The Abbott Independent Scholars Program provides opportunities for independent work with faculty members. The athletic department features sport, dance and exercise options at every level of instruction. Recreational athletes have various intramural and instructional options, while interscholastic athletes prepare for competition with other prep schools and with Boston-area colleges. Outdoor adventure opportunities, including rock climbing, winter camping, and white-water canoeing and kayaking, are also available. Pupils choose from many interest clubs and organizations, and more than half of the student body fulfill the mandate of the school's motto, Non Sibi ("Not for Self"), by volunteering in an extensive community service program. In addition, each student takes part in a schoolwide work-duty program by engaging in such tasks as dorm cleaning, school office assistance and dining hall duties.