History of Carlisle
Celebrating 57 Years of Excellence in Education
Carlisle School was founded in 1968 by business leaders, educators, and professionals in the Martinsville, Virginia area who were interested in providing a community-based school, which combined superior academics with high personal standards. Carlisle embraced the philosophy of offering a rigorous college-preparatory program and encouraging intellectual discipline and creativity, while also fostering the development of character and individual responsibility.
The school opened its doors to 81 students in grades one through seven. Today, Carlisle School continues to provide a first-class academic education for more than 340 students in Pre-K through grade 12 from southwestern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina.
Accredited in 1974, Carlisle School is a member of the Southern Association of Independent Schools. During our VAIS and SAIS accreditation visit in October 2014, Carlisle was again fully accredited. This achievement reflects the outstanding quality of the education available at Carlisle School.
Over the years, Carlisle School has kept pace with the most rigorous independent schools by continually examining curriculum issues and by seeking talented faculty with advanced degrees from diverse backgrounds.
Head of School | Years of Service |
|---|---|
| Gabrielle Roy | 1968-1969 |
| Charles Cumiskey | 1969-1980 |
| James Lipke | 1980-1983 |
| Anne Vipperman, Interim | 1983-1984 |
| Dick Hensley | 1984-1992 |
| Colin Ferguson | 1992-2004 |
| Simon Owen-Williams | 2004-2012 |
| Dr. Barry Dorsey, Interim | 2012-2013 |
| Tommy Hudgins | 2013-2018 |
| Gracie Agnew | 2018-2023 |
| Neal Meyer | 2023-Present |
Carlisle School is an independent college preparatory school empowering students to achieve their personal best by fostering a community of character, intellect, and leadership.