Thornton Academy News

Thornton Academy has again been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for “inspiring, imagining, and impacting teaching and learning through continuous innovation.”

The Apple Distinguished School program, recognized in 37 countries, is by invitation only. Schools must meet the program’s rigorous qualifications, including innovative use of the Apple platform, leadership and faculty proficiency with iPad/Apple Pen or Mac, and all students and educators use Apple devices as their primary learning or teaching device to ensure access equity across the entire academic experience.

Representatives from Apple and educators from across New England visited the Thornton Academy campus last month to observe teachers and students using Apple technology in the classroom and to see firsthand what makes an Apple Distinguished School.

Thornton is one of only 10 schools in all of New England to receive the honor. It has been honored as an Apple Distinguished School continually since 2016.

"As educators, we strive to prepare students for a changing world, which includes being comfortable working with technology," says Ben Grasso, assistant head for faculty and academic affairs at Thornton. "Whatever path students choose after high school, whether they attend college, pursue a trade, or join the military, they will certainly be exposed to technology, and attending an Apple Distinguished School like Thornton Academy gives them a strong foundation to build on."

On its website, Apple notes that “The Apple Distinguished Schools program supports forward-thinking education leaders and their communities who are using Apple technology to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning.”

In the photo above, Thornton Academy is presented with the 2024 - 2027 Apple Distinguished School Award. From left: Ben Grasso, assistant head for faculty and academic affairs; Rene Menard, headmaster; Ben Nasse, Director of Technology; and Ryan Wiggins, education leadership executive at Apple.