Holy Family Academy

Holy Family has exceeded our expectations. The Principal, Mr. Gillis, is very approachable and in fact, greets the students and parents each morning as students are dropped off. The teachers stay in touch with parents to address academic concerns in real-time and the environment of this small school is one of a tight-knit community. Classical education provides students with the tools they need to succeed in life including critical thinking. The challenging academic standards push kids while the Catholic faith supports them in their academic goals and family values. My family is very grateful that our son has the opportunity to attend this amazing school.

Moving here from Ohio four years ago, I called and interviewed many Catholic schools in MA and NH. I was and remain so grateful to have discovered HFA. Two of my children are currently attending and one graduated from this excellent school. At HFA, Classical education and faith formation go hand in hand--reminding me of this beautiful statement by Saint John Paul II: "Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth..." Many teachers use the Socratic method to engage the students- this discussion-based method hones their critical thinking skills, their ability to express themselves clearly in public settings, and their ability to retain what they've learned. The atmosphere is joyful, the students friendly, and the teachers supportive. It may not have all the bells and whistles as some other schools, but it has far deeper substantive principles which prepare my children in every way for their journey forward.

Holy Family Academy has consistently provided my children with a strong Catholic classical education in line with our family values. It is a joy-filled environment where students are treated with dignity, respect, and love. We currently have three children in the school and can not imagine a better environment for them to grow and learn in.

My husband and I have sent 4 children to Holy Family Academy. We are happy with the Socratic method of learning which HFA uses in its humanities curriculum, where selections of original writings from Aristotle to Abraham Lincoln are read and discussed in class, giving the students experience in critical thinking, discussion, and debate. The teachers and staff are dedicated to their work, and respect parents as "primary educators." They care about their students, try to understand them, and most go the extra mile to help them succeed. HFA is unapologetic in placing Jesus Christ at the center - daily Mass, prayer, a thorough religious education, and encouragement to turn trustingly to God through all life's ups and downs are essential to HFA's mission. We are pleased with the friends our kids have made among their classmates, (and that we have made among fellow parents.) There is a natural "family atmosphere" in this small school.