Pinkerton Academy

Founded in 1814, Pinkerton Academy stands as the largest independent high school in the United States, located in Derry, New Hampshire. Established through the vision of brothers John and James Pinkerton, the academy promotes virtue, piety, and comprehensive education in arts and sciences. Over two centuries, Pinkerton has evolved, adding twenty-two buildings to its campus, and now serves as the high school for multiple New Hampshire towns. The campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities, including specialized spaces for Career and Technical Education, a state-of-the-art Social Studies Center, and the Stockbridge Theatre. Pinkerton Academy provides over 320 unique course offerings and over 60 co- and extracurricular activities. Committed to fostering critical thinking, ethical citizenship, and lifelong learning, Pinkerton Academy continues to honor its heritage while embracing innovation for a diverse future.