Life at ASD
A close-knit community where curiosity thrives, connections run deep, and students discover their passions.
Daily Life at ASD
Daily life at ASD looks different depending on where students are on their journey. Our youngest learners in grades 5 and 6 have dedicated teachers guiding them through their core subjects, building foundational skills and developing the study habits that will serve them throughout their ASD career. As students move into middle school, they begin taking on more independence, earning high school credits and exploring diverse STEM fields through hands-on courses.
By high school, students are navigating a more independent schedule, choosing from advanced electives, pursuing specialized research, and balancing rigorous academics with internships and community service. Across all grades, students benefit from small class sizes, accessible teachers, and built-in time during the day for collaboration, questions, and independent work.
What remains constant across all grade levels is the culture of curiosity and support. Whether it's a sixth grader's first Rube Goldberg machine or a high school junior defending their capstone research, ASD students are surrounded by peers who celebrate discovery, teachers who make themselves available, and a community that values both academic excellence and personal growth.
Clubs & Activities
Beyond the classroom, ASD students pursue their passions through a variety of clubs and activities spanning diverse disciplines-- from robotics and entrepreneurship to the arts and honor societies. Students have opportunities to dive deeper into their interests, develop leadership skills, and connect with like-minded peers through activities like competitions, performances, and community service. Our clubs are often student-initiated, reflecting the diverse interests of our community and the entrepreneurial spirit we cultivate. Whether competing at state and national levels or simply gathering around shared interests, these activities build lasting friendships and expand students' horizons beyond academics.
Student Support & Wellness
At ASD, we recognize that academic success is built on a foundation of well-being and support. Every student is part of an Advisory group led by a faculty member, providing a consistent connection and a touchpoint for academic guidance, college planning, and personal growth. Our Positive Connections program offers a trauma-informed space for students who need additional support, while our peer tutoring program connects students across grade levels for academic assistance. For students who benefit from extra structure, our Directed Study program provides small-group support in developing executive functioning skills like time management, organization, and self-advocacy. Students also benefit from visits with Caramel, our beloved therapy dog, who provides comfort and stress relief throughout the school year. Through these programs and the accessibility of our faculty, we ensure every student has the support they need to thrive.
Community & Culture
ASD's community extends far beyond our building. Students come from over 30 towns across New Hampshire, many carpooling up to an hour each way, creating connections that begin before the school day starts. Our international diversity, with 25% of students born outside the United States and families representing six continents, enriches every conversation and classroom experience. Through 150 hours of required community service (Stewardship), students engage with organizations across the state, contributing their time and talents while developing a deeper understanding of civic responsibility. Our close-knit community means students know peers across all grade levels, highschoolers mentor younger students, and everyone contributes to a culture where asking questions, taking intellectual risks, and supporting one another are the norm.