Parents & Students

The Karen Smith Academy serves students in grades 9-12 from Southington High School and surrounding districts on a tuition basis who have not been successful in a traditional high school setting. The Karen Smith Academy is housed in a separate facility but is directly linked to Southington High School and is part of the Southington Public Schools System. It is a "school of choice," and students are accepted only after they complete a two-day observation. Karen Smith Academy administration, in conjunction with the Southington High School administration, reserves the right not to accept a prospective candidate if it's determined that the Karen Smith Academy would not best serve the educational needs of the student.

The instructional philosophy at the Karen Smith Academy is based on challenging students to think independently, problem solve, write with purpose, and understand that literacy is a necessary skill to be successful in all facets of life. Our curriculum is aligned with Southington High School and stresses differentiated instruction and cooperative learning across all content areas. Karen Smith Academy offers grade level courses in English, math, social studies, science, art, music, and health and physical education. We offer school counseling and have full-time Special Education support. We are staffed by highly-qualified, highly-motivated teachers and have a full time Principal/Director on site.

Students who graduate from the Karen Smith Academy receive a Southington High School diploma after meeting all district and state requirements. In 2022, thirteen seniors graduated and participated in commencement ceremonies.

Karen Smith Academy faculty and students consistently practice and model mutual respect, acceptance, and a true sense of pride. Karen Smith Academy is a unique, challenging, invigorating learning institution.

Please contact Jess Levin, Director, for questions regarding admission to the Karen Smith Academy.