Guide to Schools In and Around Boston

Boston area offers wide range of school offerings for kids of all ages

By Dan Murphy

A new academic year is just getting underway, but it’s already time for parents and guardians to begin thinking about options for next year, and with the Boston area’s wide range of top-notch independent, private and parochial schools, kids of all ages can find the one that well suits them while still staying local.

For small children just starting off on their educational journeys, the Beacon Hill Nursery School at 74 Joy St. has been a vital part of the downtown community since 1955.

With a commitment to high quality education since its inception, the mission of BHNS is to create a nurturing community that instills a lifelong love of learning, and its exceptional educators value play as purposeful and cherish children’s innate curiosity. 

The warm and welcoming environment of BHNS includes two onsite playscapes, a dedicated library, seven classrooms and an indoor gym. Its curriculum has a strong emphasis on play, hands-on engagement, open-ended exploration, and social-emotional development. Enriched by weekly yoga and music classes, the program also nurtures and engages children in an environment that cultivates creativity and joy in learning.

The Junior Kindergarten program is designed to maintain the hallmarks of the play-based program for young children while offering increased structure, exposure to academic readiness skills, leadership opportunities and preparation for the transition to next schools.

In welcoming children back to physical programming this year, Director, Debra Sullivan, said she is proud of the resilience of faculty in re-imagining their programs “to maintain the magic of a BHNS experience while incorporating program elements that support social distancing and use space and materials in new and creative ways.”

Responding to the varied and changing needs of families, the school also offers robust Remote Programs this year for all students (age 2-6), an alternative means of delivering high-quality curriculum and maintaining community connections.

BHNS will hold Open Houses on Oct. 8 and Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m.; guest must pre-register on the school’s website.

All applications are due next Jan. 15, except sibling and legacy applications. which are due Nov. 15, while applications for the Remote Program for the 2020-2021 school year are still being accepted (call the school to inquire).

To learn more about BHNS, visit www.bhns.net or call 617-227-0822.

An integral and enduring fixture of Boston’s West End community since 1965, the Boston Children’s School at 8 Whittier Place in Charles River Park, was looking forward to celebrating its 55th birthday in the neighborhood this year, but instead decided to postpone the opening of school this fall in deference to public-health concerns.

“We are hopeful that we will be bringing our children back soon,” wrote Bob Langer, executive director, who serves alongside his wife Judy, the school’s programming director. “These are unusual times.  There is no guide, there is no ‘User Manual’ or previous experience that anyone has had. We have to rely on science and, sometimes common sense, to navigate these difficult waters.  

The Boston Children’s School is differentiated from other preschools by its multicultural, cognitive-educational programs, and it provides a quality-early childhood academic curriculum for children ages 2.9 to 7 in pre-school through kindergarten. The school has a teacher-to-student ratio of 8:1, as well as supplemental teaching staff who specialize in specific areas like gymnastics and music. It is also one of the only schools  in the city to boast its own private playground – a state-of-the art facility replete with a fun house, a crawl-through structure and various “ride-on” vehicles.

BCS is now enrolling children for the 2021-2022 academic year, and Bob Langer wrote, “We will now look forward to celebrating the 60th. anniversary in 2025!”

To learn more about Boston Children’s School, visit bostonchildrensschool.org or call 617-367-6239.

The Charlestown Nursery School, a private nursery school located at 124 Main St. in Charlestown, offers innovative programing for ages 2 to 5 inspired by the principles of Reggio Emilia, which focus on a student-centered and self-guided curriculum.

Each classroom is a “learning lab,” with two master teachers and a parent helper, and offers myriad experiences, including sensory, gross and fine motor, early literacy and math skills, and dramatic play, music and visual art.

This year, in response to the public-health crisis, all classes, which have reduced capacities and adhere to social distancing, face coverings and other safety protocol, are taking place outdoors as long as the weather will permit  – an approach that Kelly Pellagrini, the school’s co-director and co-founder, said was inspired by outdoor learning in Finland and “also New York City’s public schools, which took their classes outside in response to the Flu of 1918.”

Moreover, Pellagrini added, “To be able to learn alongside city skyscrapers, to be able to study foliage and trees in parks, to be able to pursue study with limitless sky and limitless possibilities is sort of what every educator dreams of. We talk about the world being a classroom and supporting children as being flexible problem-solvers in facing new challenges, and this is sort of the optimal moment to be providing education that will not only shape the next generation, but also make history.”

Early-admissions applications are accepted and reviewed continually from Nov. 15 to the following Jan. 30, while rolling-admissions applications are accepted anytime after Feb.1 on a first-come, first-served basis, and acceptance letters are typically sent to parents or guardians within 15 days.

To learn more about Charlestown Nursery School, visit charlestownnurseryschool.org or call 617-242-5159.

Park Street School, with its elementary school and administrative offices located at 67 Brimmer St., and preschool at One Park Street, offers academic programming for toddlers through Grade 6 grounded in Core Knowledge – a content-rich, skill-building curriculum.

The school, which was founded and established by Christian women and men, affirms each student’s intrinsic worth, teaches them how to respect others, and underscores the importance of compassion, integrity and generosity. 

As part of this school year, which began Sept. 8 for in-person learning, and includes new, additional options for remote education, Park Street School has launched its new Artists in Residency program, which embeds a specialized educator in areas, including science, music, physical education, Spanish, art and drama, in one classroom to offer its students a more immersive and interactive experience. (These same instructors will simultaneously also be teaching other grade-levels virtually, said Kim Twitchell, director of communications).

Flexible Fridays is another new school initiative this year that allows elementary students to attend classes either in person or remotely. “It allows families some flexibility by allowing a parent to have their child stay home that day, which is nice,” Twitchell added.

Beginning Oct. 6 and continuing through December, “Take A Tour Tuesdays” will allow guests to virtually tour the school on Tuesdays while interacting with and asking questions of faculty members before the application due date next January.

Visit parkstreetschool.org or call the Brimmer Street elementary school and administrative offices at 617-523-7577 or the Park Street preschool at 617-523-4477 for more information.

The Belmont Day School is a pre-K through Grade 8 school located in Belmont, Mass., that thrives to create “a community of inspiring, bold, and remarkable learners and leaders” while  instilling six core values in its students – respect, honesty, responsibility, caring, joy, and excellence—are integral to academic quality, creativity, fitness, and health.

Founded in 1927, the school has a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio, with a curriculum emphasizing hands-on, interdisciplinary work that prepares graduates to go on to the high schools and careers of their choosing.

Belmont Day School is also committed to creating an equitable and inclusionary learning environment, with around 40 percent of students identifying as people of color.

A Lower School Open House takes place virtually on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9:30-11:30 a.m., while the Middle School Open House is scheduled virtually for Saturday, Nov. 14, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Applications are due Jan. 11 of next year; to request an online information packet and begin the online application process, or for more information on Belmont Day School, visit Belmontday.org or call 617-484-3078.

St. John School, located at 9 Moon St. in North Square, in Boston’s North End, is a Catholic elementary and preschool that has served generations of children in the city since its inception in 1873.

“We’re a pre-K-Grade 8 Catholic school in the North End where academic excellence and faith meet,” said Claire Cassidy, the school’s principal.

St. John’s offerings for fifth- to eighth-graders include Italian language instruction, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programs, woodworking classes, gardening and professional music classes, as well as a wide variety of extracurricular, after-school activities, while younger kids are taught the fundamentals of reading, writing and math, and also receive an introduction to technology.

St. John School, which is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, also offers rolling enrollment.

For more information, visit www.sjsne.com or call 617-227-3143 ext. 102 for more information.

The Fessenden School, is an all-male independent school for pre-K- Grade 4 (day school) and Grades 5-9 (day and boarding school) located at 250 Waltham St. in West Newton, has met the educational needs of boys since 1903.

“It’s a school that does a great job of combining the tried-and-true teaching approaches with leading-edge innovative techniques to fully prepare students for the unknown world they will inherit,” said Suzanne Murphy, the school’s director of marketing. “It’s really a school that allows boys to pursue their passions, whether it’s as a writer, an artist or an athlete, and it really does prepare students for the known future.”

Besides its state-of-the-art Center for Innovation, Fessenden also boasts a new performing arts and center, which opened last year, and with a 41-acre campus, the school year is now underway in person and at full capacity by making use of new areas as classroom space.

Fessenden is also one of only 12 schools invited to participate in NuVuX – a program “for students pursuing project-based learning,” Murphy said, that allows them to partner with NuVu – a Cambridge-based innovative school that was founded by MIT graduates

To learn more about The Fessenden School, visit fessenden.org, or call 617-630-2300.

Boston College High School in Dorchester is an all-male, Jesuit, Roman Catholic, college preparatory secondary school serving Grades 7-12  that was founded in 1863 and has historical ties to Boston College.

“I think one of the things that differentiates us from other schools is we’re a Jesuit school, and there is no other Jesuit school that families in the area that parents would be considering for their children,” said Charlie Drane, vice president of enrollment. “It’s important to know a Jesuit education is rigorous in terms of academics, but at the same time, we are equally concerned with developing the whole person.”

Drane added: “Our academic offerings are as strong as you’ll find at any high school, and it’s by pairing this with service, athletic and co-curricular offerings and advisory programs that we make sure a well-rounded individual leaves BC High, headed into the world.”

BC High is holding a virtual Open House on Nov. 8.

Applicants in all grades are required to take entrance exams (i.e. ISSE for seventh- and eighth-graders, and HSPT, SSAT, etc. for high school sophomores and juniors), and applications are due Jan. 3 for Grade 9; and Jan 31  for Grade 7, as well as Grade 8, 10 and 11 transfers.
    Visit bchigh.edu or call 617-436-3900 for more information.

Founded in 1945, the Newman School, located at 247 Marlborough St. in Boston’s Back Bay, is an independent day school in the Catholic tradition for Grades 7-12.

The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program – an academically balanced curriculum that prepares students for college and beyond and that, according to Gayle Schafer, director of communications, is “highly regarded by colleges because it requires students to dig deeper through writing, presenting, analysis of material and reflection of their work so they are very well prepared for next level.”

Moreover, Newman School students must complete a service component, such as volunteering with a local nonprofit, to earn their diplomas, and which, Schafer said, “creates citizens who are globally and service-minded when they go out into the greater world.”

The Newman School, which is offering virtual open houses on Tuesday, Oc. 6 ; Wednesday, Oct. 14 ; and Thursday, Oct. 22, at 6 p.m., has rolling admissions and even has a few spaces available in some grades for the current school year as more of its International Students have opted to study online instead.

Visit newmanboston.org or call 617-267-4530 to learn more about the Newman School.

For tuitions costs and financial-aid information for any of the aforementioned schools, visit their respective websites.

Independent’s Guide to Schools:

School Listings

Pre-School & Kindergarten

Beacon Hill Nursery School

74 Joy Street

Boston, MA 02114

617-227-0822

www.bhns.net

Beacon Hill Nursery School was founded in 1955 and has been a vital part of the downtown community since its inception with a consistent commitment to high quality early childhood education. Our primary mission is to create a nurturing community that instills a lifelong love of learning in its students. We cherish children’s innate curiosity through purposeful play guided by exceptional early childhood educators.

Our school is warm and welcoming, with two onsite playscapes, a dedicated library, seven classrooms and an indoor gym. All of our programs have a strong emphasis on play, hands-on engagement, open-ended exploration and social/emotional development. Enriched by weekly yoga and music classes, our program nurtures and engages children in an environment that cultivates creativity and joy in learning. Our Junior Kindergarten program is designed to maintain the hallmarks of our play-based programs for young children while offering increased structure, exposure to academic readiness skills, leadership opportunities and preparation for the transition to next schools.

Programs: Toddler (2-2.9 years) – 2 or 3 mornings (8:45am-12pm)

Preschool (2.9-4 years) – 5 mornings (8:45am-12pm)

Junior Kindergarten (4-5 years) – M-Th (8:45am-2pm), F (8:45am-12pm)

Extended Day: Early Drop-off 8:00-8:45am

Extended Day until 3:30 or 5:45pm

Deadlines: Sibling & Legacy Applications – November 15

All other Applications – January 15

Open Houses – October 8 & November 2, 6:30-8pm

Registration required for our Open Houses online at www.bhns.net/open-house

Financial Aid: Need-based

Belmont Day School

55 Day School Lane

Belmont, MA 02478

T 617-932-3889

F 617-489-1924

belmontday.org

 Belmont Day School is a community of inspiring, bold, and remarkable learners and leaders.  Curricula emphasize hands-on, interdisciplinary work that grounds the academic experience in the real world, and faculty expertly offer each individual the right level of challenge and support.  Students build a strong sense of themselves and embody the school’s core values of excellence, honesty, caring, joy, responsibility, and respect.  Graduates go on the High Schools of their choosing, where they are embraced as confident self-advocates and leaders. 

Virtual Open House Events: Saturday, October 17, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Saturday, November 14, 1 to 3 p.m. www.belmontday.org

Boston Children’s School

8 Whittier Place Boston, MA 0211

617-367-6239

bostonchildrensschool.org

 Established in 1965, the Boston Children’s School has been bringing the joy of learning to children between the ages of 2.9 and 7 years of age for over 55 years. Located in the historic West End section of Boston at Charles River Park, the Boston Children’s School attracts students from the greater Boston area and children from around the world.

Our curriculum is both cognitively and developmentally age appropriate. Children learn and play in small groups, in individual, intimate classroom settings, allowing the classroom teachers to know each child and their individual learning style. In addition to daily classroom activities, the Boston Children’s School offers Spanish, sign language and music as part of its curriculum. All children have daily access to the on-site playground.  The Boston Children’s School also offers a  “Summer-Fun-Program” to children between the ages of 3 and 8 years old.

Detailed information about the Boston Children’s School, its academic year and summer programs, are available on the Boston Children’s School website at www.BostonChildrensSchool.Org.  Please feel free to call Judy Langer, the Director of the Boston Children’s School at 617-367-6239 with any questions that you may have about the school.

Academic Year – September through May Ages – 2.9 through 7 years old.  Hours – 8:45 a.m. through 5 p.m., half day programs are available.  Early arrival at 8:15 a.m. and late stay until 5:30 p.m. also available.  Application Deadline: January 15.   Limited financial aid available

Charlestown Nursery School

124 Main Street

Charlestown, MA

617-242-5169

charlestownnurseryschool.com

Charlestown Nursery School (CNS) is an innovative program for children 2-5 years old that draws on the best research from Reggio Emilia, Montessori and other thoughtful approaches. Our curriculum is built around a series of explorations that grow out of the children’s own interests and integrates individualized instruction – combining the power of the children’s boundless curiosity with an expertly guided investigative approach that immerses the children in the process and joys of real discovery, with the goal of nurturing self-motivated, life-long learners. CNS has been recognized by educators from around the world and has been highlighted in many studies of high-quality early childhood.

The city’s resources – including parks, museums, libraries and historic attractions – are considered part of the school’s “campus,” and our frequent visits foster the child’s feeling of being at home in the wider world.

Ages: 2 – 5 years.

Tuition variable by program.

Application available October 1. Early admission begins Nov.15

Fessenden

Pre-K – Grade 9

250 Waltham St.

West Newton, MA

617-630-2300

fessenden.org

The Fessenden School is more than an independent day and boarding school for boys in Pre-K-Grade 9. It’s the perfect intersection of tradition and innovation. A place where tried and true educational techniques are woven seamlessly into a STEAM-inspired, passion-based curriculum. A diverse, inclusive, and nurturing community that emphasizes academic excellence and character development.

Parents appreciate Fessenden’s commitment to delivering a curriculum based on how boys learn best and are delighted with the individual support and encouragement their sons receive. 

Educational leaders turn to Fessenden for guidance on developing curricula that encourage students to be creative problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and global citizens. Fessenden also has the distinction of being one of only 12 schools in the world invited to partner with NuVu (an innovation school founded by MIT graduates) to deliver an academic program that prepares students for the world they will inherit.

Please join us for grade-specific virtual tours, weekday mornings, October – January. Register at fessenden.org/virtual.

Milton Academy’s Lower School

Grades K-5

170 Centre Street

Milton MA 02186

617-898-2509

www.milton.edu/k8/

Milton Academy is an independent college preparatory K–12 school, boarding and day in grades 9–12, located eight miles south of Boston. Milton Academy’s Lower School is a unique and joyful place. Through daily interactions with supportive peers and impassioned teachers, our students develop uncommon expertise and confidence in their academic disciplines. They explore and initiate, collaborate, and take risks together. They eagerly master and apply skills toward exciting interdisciplinary projects in every grade. Our teachers continuously and collaboratively renew our curriculum to ensure that it is rich and relevant.

Students learn in Milton’s Lower School at the natural pace of childhood. We make play a priority. We do not rush content for achievement’s sake; rather, we discover together the depth and value in science, literature, social studies, mathematics, the performing and visual arts, technology, and physical education. Children come to a nuanced understanding of these subjects—and the connections between them. The development of interpersonal skills and self-awareness guides all of our pursuits. We practice mutual respect, learning about others, and ourselves. Every day, we celebrate the many cultures and backgrounds of the children, faculty, and families of Milton Academy.

The Park School

171 Goddard Ave.

Brookline, MA 02445

617-277-2456

Parkschool.org

Park is more than a school. It’s a close-knit, welcoming community devoted to creating transformative experiences for children ages 4–14. Since 1888, Park has been dedicated to the special time of childhood and early adolescence. The Park community deeply values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Located on 34 acres near Jamaica Pond, Park feels like a neighborhood school but reflects the diversity of metropolitan Boston. Park offers after-school programs, transportation, and generous financial aid. For more information about virtual admission events, visit parkschool.org.

Tuition:  $37,900 for Pre-Kindergarten – $48,000 for Grade 8

Application deadline: Jan. 8, 2020

Diversity: 44% students of color

Financial Aid: 23% students receive financial assistance

Park Street School – Preschool

One Park Street

Boston, MA 02108

617-523-7577

www.parkstreetschool.org

Situated in sunny facilities on Beacon Hill, Park Street School provides a continuous, integrated and experiential education for children Toddler through Grade 6.

Grounded in Core Knowledge philosophy, children build strong foundations of knowledge in the early years – an approach we believe is foundational to developing critical thinking skills necessary for lifelong learning.  Learning here is active! Creativity, imagination, and social development are fostered through lessons, learning centers and play. Whether collecting leaves, discovering animals’ habitats in Ponds and Meadows, or bicycling in gym, children are “out of the chair” – making connections in and out of the classroom and between subjects. The learning is real and tangible, and it sets us apart. As a Christian school, we’re committed to guiding students in the formation of character and an understanding of God’s love for them. Connecting the mind and the heart – classroom learning and character education – is what makes Park Street School special. Sign-up at www.parkstreetschool.org for a Virtual Tuesday Tour at 10:00 AM or one of our evening Open Houses: for Elementary Nov.12 at 6:00 PM, or

Preschool Dec. 3 at 6:00 PM.

Ages: 2-5 years Tuition: $10,300-$21,200; $2,000-$8,500 additional for afternoon programs Financial Assistance: Available for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 6, with limited availability for Preschool. Hours:8:00 a.m.- noon for morning programs, Creative Afternoons noon-3:00 p.m. for ages 3 and up. Two, three, four and five-day programs available. Application deadline: Jan. 4 for priority for fall programs.

Shady Hill School

178 Coolidge Hill

Cambridge, MA  02138

617-520-5200

www.shs.org

 Shady Hill is a Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 all gender day school, with over 500 students, located on an 11-acre campus in Cambridge. Since our founding in 1915, the school has been committed to creating an environment where children are joyful, active learners who become confident and ethical citizens. The school honors the individual character of each child, encourages learning through collaboration, and values intellectual discipline. Central Subject, our fundamentally different approach to teaching and learning, fosters integrated study and the development of critical and creative thinkers and problem solvers. Grades Pre-K  – 8 tuition in 2020-2021: $28,550 – $42,850.

 Hours:  8:00 A.M. – 3:15 P.M.; half-day program for Pre-K; after-school program until 6:00 P.M. Application deadline:  January 10, 2021. Virtual Open House, Pre-K – 8: Sunday, October 25, 1-5PM.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Belmont Day School

55 Day School Lane

Belmont, MA 02478

T 617-932-3889

F 617-489-1924

belmontday.org

 Belmont Day School is a community of inspiring, bold, and remarkable learners and leaders.  Curricula emphasize hands-on, interdisciplinary work that grounds the academic experience in the real world, and faculty expertly offer each individual the right level of challenge and support.  Students build a strong sense of themselves and embody the school’s core values of excellence, honesty, caring, joy, responsibility, and respect.  Graduates go on the High Schools of their choosing, where they are embraced as confident self-advocates and leaders. 

Virtual Open House Events: Saturday, October 17, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Saturday, November 14, 1 to 3 p.m. www.belmontday.org

Boston Children’s School                   

8 Whittier Place                                                                                                      Boston, MA 0211          

617-367-6239                                                                                                                  bostonchildrensschool.org

Established in 1965, the Boston Children’s School has been bringing the joy of learning to children between the ages of 2.9 and 7 years of age for over 55 years. Located in the historic West End section of Boston at Charles River Park, the Boston Children’s School attracts students from the greater Boston area and children from around the world.

Our curriculum is both cognitively and developmentally age appropriate. Children learn and play in small groups, in individual, intimate classroom settings, allowing the classroom teachers to know each child and their individual learning style. In addition to daily classroom activities, the Boston Children’s School offers Spanish, sign language and music as part of its curriculum. All children have daily access to the on-site playground.  The Boston Children’s School also offers a  “Summer-Fun-Program” to children between the ages of 3 and 8 years old.

Detailed information about the Boston Children’s School, its academic year and summer programs, are available on the Boston Children’s School website at www.BostonChildrensSchool.Org.  Please feel free to call Judy Langer, the Director of the Boston Children’s School at 617-367-6239 with any questions that you may have about the school. Academic Year – September through May Ages – 2.9 through 7 years old.  Hours – 8:45 a.m. through 5 p.m., half day programs are available.  Early arrival at 8:15 a.m. and late stay until 5:30 p.m. also available.  Application Deadline: January 15.   Limited financial aid available

Fessenden

Pre-K – Grade 9

250 Waltham St.

West Newton, MA

617-630-2300

fessenden.org

The Fessenden School is more than an independent day and boarding school for boys in Pre-K-Grade 9. It’s the perfect intersection of tradition and innovation. A place where tried and true educational techniques are woven seamlessly into a STEAM-inspired, passion-based curriculum. A diverse, inclusive, and nurturing community that emphasizes academic excellence and character development.

Parents appreciate Fessenden’s commitment to delivering a curriculum based on how boys learn best and are delighted with the individual support and encouragement their sons receive. 

Educational leaders turn to Fessenden for guidance on developing curricula that encourage students to be creative problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and global citizens. Fessenden also has the distinction of being one of only 12 schools in the world invited to partner with NuVu (an innovation school founded by MIT graduates) to deliver an academic program that prepares students for the world they will inherit.

Please join us for grade-specific virtual tours, weekday mornings, October – January. Register at fessenden.org/virtual.

Milton Academy’s Lower School

Grades K-5

170 Centre Street

Milton MA 02186

617-898-2509

www.milton.edu/k8/

Milton Academy is an independent college preparatory K–12 school, boarding and day in grades 9–12, located eight miles south of Boston. Milton Academy’s Lower School is a unique and joyful place. Through daily interactions with supportive peers and impassioned teachers, our students develop uncommon expertise and confidence in their academic disciplines. They explore and initiate, collaborate, and take risks together. They eagerly master and apply skills toward exciting interdisciplinary projects in every grade. Our teachers continuously and collaboratively renew our curriculum to ensure that it is rich and relevant.

Students learn in Milton’s Lower School at the natural pace of childhood. We make play a priority. We do not rush content for achievement’s sake; rather, we discover together the depth and value in science, literature, social studies, mathematics, the performing and visual arts, technology, and physical education. Children come to a nuanced understanding of these subjects—and the connections between them. The development of interpersonal skills and self-awareness guides all of our pursuits. We practice mutual respect, learning about others, and ourselves. Every day, we celebrate the many cultures and backgrounds of the children, faculty, and families of Milton Academy.

Our teachers know each child well, and we work together to nurture unique talents, passions, and aspirations. The Lower School—nested within the K–8 of our K–12 school—enables children to begin developing their own sense of competence, confidence, and character.

We are excited to get to know your family through our admission process. We are now scheduling Zoom interviews for families applying to one of our planned entry points: kindergarten, grade 4, grade 6, and grade 7. Please call 617-898-2509 to schedule an appointment. 

The Lower and Middle School Admission Office will also conduct a variety of virtual events for prospective families (https://www.milton.edu/k8/admission/virtual-events/). In order to receive an invitation to these events, please be sure to inquire using the Request Information Form on our website, or by calling our office to be added into our database. 

The Park School

171 Goddard Ave.

Brookline, MA 02445

617-277-2456

Parkschool.org

Park is more than a school. It’s a close-knit, welcoming community devoted to creating transformative experiences for children ages 4–14. Since 1888, Park has been dedicated to the special time of childhood and early adolescence. The Park community deeply values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Located on 34 acres near Jamaica Pond, Park feels like a neighborhood school but reflects the diversity of metropolitan Boston. Park offers after-school programs, transportation, and generous financial aid. For more information about virtual admission events, visit parkschool.org.

Tuition:  $37,900 for Pre-Kindergarten – $48,000 for Grade 8

Application deadline: Jan. 8, 2020

Diversity: 44% students of color

Financial Aid: 23% students receive financial assistance

Park Street School – Elementary

67 Brimmer Street

Boston, MA 02108

617-523-7577

www.parkstreetschool.org

Situated in sunny facilities on Beacon Hill, Park Street School provides a continuous, integrated and experiential education for children Toddler through Grade 6.

Our students discover connections as they explore in vibrant learning spaces with innovative tools. Our robust academics feed students’ curiosity, and build strong foundations of knowledge in the early years, encouraging inquiry and life-long learning. Students are known and loved by PSS faculty and staff who want each child to grow academically, socially/emotionally, spiritually and physically. Our students grow in confidence, compassion and empathy. They learn of God’s love for them, show respect for others, take risks in affirming settings and learn how to live lives of generosity – together. They are encouraged to develop a growth mindset and to creatively solve problems as they interact with curriculum, with each other and demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges. Our students are equipped to become global citizens, armed with a strong academic foundation, confidence, and critical thinking skills. We offer small class sizes, a diverse community and need-based financial aid. We are proud of our talented faculty, competitive middle school placement, and aspirational college matriculation. Sign-up at www.parkstreetschool.org for a Virtual Tuesday Tour at 10:00 AM or one of our evening Open Houses: for Elementary Nov.12 at 6:00 PM, or Preschool Dec. 3 at 6:00 PM.

Grades: Kindergarten-Grade 6 Tuition: $28,700 – $30,700; $1,500 – $6,000 additional for afternoon programs. Financial Assistance: Available for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 6, with limited availability for Preschool.

Hours: 8:00a.m.-3:00p.m. M-TH, and Fridays 8:00a.m.-noon for Grades 1-6, and Kindergarten. After school program and clubs, and private music lessons are part of our normal offerings.  Application deadline: Jan. 4 for priority for fall programs.

Shady Hill School

178 Coolidge Hill

Cambridge, MA  02138

617-520-5200

www.shs.org

 Shady Hill is a Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 all gender day school, with over 500 students, located on an 11-acre campus in Cambridge. Since our founding in 1915, the school has been committed to creating an environment where children are joyful, active learners who become confident and ethical citizens. The school honors the individual character of each child, encourages learning through collaboration, and values intellectual discipline. Central Subject, our fundamentally different approach to teaching and learning, fosters integrated study and the development of critical and creative thinkers and problem solvers. Grades Pre-K  – 8 tuition in 2020-2021: $28,550 – $42,850.

 Hours:  8:00 A.M. – 3:15 P.M.; half-day program for Pre-K; after-school program until 6:00 P.M. Application deadline:  January 10, 2021. Virtual Open House, Pre-K – 8: Sunday, October 25, 1-5PM.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Milton Academy’s Middle School

Grades 6-8

170 Centre Street

Milton MA 02186

617-898-2509

www.milton.edu/k8/

Milton Academy is an independent college preparatory K–12 school, boarding and day in grades 9–12, located eight miles south of Boston. Milton Academy’s Middle School helps students take safe risks, pursue talents, and discover new passions. Our rigorous academics focus on skill development, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary projects in math, English, science, foreign language, social studies, visual and performing arts, technology, and physical education. Connections between students and adults, so important in adolescent years, are lively—in the classroom, and on the fields and stages. Students feel comfortable turning to their teachers, advisors, or coaches for support and guidance. Our weekly community meetings provide leadership opportunities, celebrate individual and group success, and cultivate respect and responsibility. Milton’s Middle School faculty are devoted to their craft, and eagerly evaluate and apply best practices in adolescent education. As a School, we are committed to continuous curriculum renewal, so that our work meets the needs of, and excites our students. Middle school years should be wonderful for both students and parents. We are eager to help you learn about how our Milton environment helps each student thrive.

Each day, our students take on more responsibility and independence; we understand them, support them, and help them grow as they transition from childhood to adolescence. Our discussion-based classes, often around a Harkness Table, are lively and engaging.  All students take a 360 health and wellness class, co-taught by our Middle School Counselor and Learning Skills Specialist, and have many opportunities to join affinity groups and culture clubs.   

We are excited to get to know your family through our admission process. We are now scheduling Zoom interviews for families applying to one of our planned entry points: kindergarten, grade 4, grade 6, and grade 7. Please call 617-898-2509 to schedule an appointment. 

The Lower and Middle School Admission Office will also conduct a variety of virtual events for prospective families (https://www.milton.edu/k8/

admission/virtual-events/). In order to receive an invitation to these events, please be sure to inquire using the Request Information Form on our website, or by calling our office to be added into our database. 

The Newman School

247 Marlborough Street

Boston MA 02116

617-267-4530

newmanboston.org

The Newman School of Boston, celebrating its 75 anniversary in the heart of the Back Bay of Boston, is a welcoming vibrant learning community.   From grades 7-12, Newman’s middle and high school years International Baccalaureate curriculum is the point of entry for curious, independent, outward looking students.  The curriculum is recognized by universities for it’s depth and rigor.

The Newman School’s motto, “Heart Speaks to Heart” is woven through all areas of school life.  Relationships are at the core of who we are.  Students develop through inquisitive academic exploration and meaningful connections with teachers to become global contributors.   A vibrant program of activities and sports allows students to pursue their interests and passions beyond the classroom, with the city as their playground.

Newman is in-person, with hybrid options also available.

HIGH SCHOOL

Boston College High School

150 Morrissey Blvd.

Boston, Ma 02125

617-436-3900

bchigh.edu

Founded in 1863, Boston College High School is a world-class, independent Jesuit, Catholic preparatory school for young men in grades 7–12. BC High offers students dynamic, urban learning

experiences unique to Boston and unparalleled opportunities to explore the world through a vast network of schools and international destinations.

BC High’s approach is rigorous, going beyond the academic to address the whole person: head, heart, and hands – cultivating qualities that establish character and provide students with a holistic framework to wrestle the many complexities of life.

Here, future leaders begin to develop their potential, find their own unique voice and work together toward a more ethical and inclusive world. Students learn to stand up boldly for what they believe in, including themselves, and become men who lead with integrity.

Our five-hundred-year-old tradition of Jesuit education has seen plagues, recession and wars. We have weathered it all. Rooted in such a strong tradition, BC High was quick to pivot in these uncertain times and stay connected through synchronous learning with enhanced Zoom capabilities, technology and safety protocols for our community.

Learn more about the BC High experience and register for our virtual open house on November 8, go to bchigh.edu.

The Newman School

247 Marlborough Street

Boston MA 02116

617-267-4530

newmanboston.org

The Newman School of Boston, celebrating its 75 anniversary in the heart of the Back Bay of Boston, is a welcoming vibrant learning community.   From grades 7-12, Newman’s middle and high school years International Baccalaureate curriculum is the point of entry for curious, independent, outward looking students.  The curriculum is recognized by universities for it’s depth and rigor.

The Newman School’s motto, “Heart Speaks to Heart” is woven through all areas of school life.  Relationships are at the core of who we are.  Students develop through inquisitive academic exploration and meaningful connections with teachers to become global contributors.   A vibrant program of activities and sports allows students to pursue their interests and passions beyond the classroom, with the city as their playground.

Newman is in-person, with hybrid options also available.

Virtual Learning Pod program

Charlestown Boys and Girls Club

15 Green St.

Charlestown, Mass. 02129

617-242-1775

Charlestown Boys and Girls Club’s Learning Enrichment Program.

The Club will have an in-person, Learning Enrichment Program Pods with Staff for members in our facility this School Year starting Sept. 28th. The Club will host students for the upcoming school year and our staff will make sure they have a safe, secure and connected facility to learn in while in ‘virtual class’. 

‘All Virtual’ Students preferred. Any questions, Please call the Club at 617-242-1775 or email at [email protected]

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