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Acera
aceraschool.org | 781-729-3489
Acera is a kindergarten through grade 9 STEAM school serving accelerated learners in Greater Boston. The school is dedicated to keeping children’s curiosity alive through individualized learning pathways, purpose-driven projects, ability-based math classes, and electives that lift the ceiling on what is possible in school.
At Acera, students have the freedom to learn at their own pace, dive deeply into subjects they love, and reach beyond traditional grade-level limits. Whether designing a chess set with CAD software, simulating life on Mars, or debating the ethics of artificial intelligence, students engage in immersive, cross-disciplinary learning that is rigorous, relevant, and real. Acera’s unique electives — taught by scientists, engineers, and artists — open doors to genetics, robotics, philosophy, theater, creative writing, and more.
The school safeguards each child’s innate curiosity and passion for learning, helping them grow into the next generation of innovators, scientists, and leaders. Acera is more than a school; it is a lab for educational innovation and a model of what is possible for all schools, catalyzing change in education well beyond the classroom. Discover how Acera can help your child thrive — visit and see what it looks like to learn without limits.
The Advent School
adventschool.org | 617-742-0520
Learn with passion. Act with courage. Change the world. The Advent School is a progressive, coeducational independent school for students in pre-K through grade 6. With outstanding academics, small class sizes, and an emphasis on diversity and social justice, Advent empowers kids to become skilled and confident changemakers.
Thematic learning is the foundation of the Advent experience. By integrating subjects within an overarching theme, students build knowledge, ask questions, and construct ideas and theories based on authentic experiences and research, developing academic abilities far beyond their grade level.
In addition to the thematic curriculum at all grade levels, Advent students have classes in art, library, music, physical education, science, Spanish, and yoga embedded into their weekly routine. After school, students can choose from a variety of Enrichment classes and private lessons. Through the school’s Buddy Program, every student in pre-K through grade 2 is paired with an Upper School “buddy” for the duration of the school year. They enjoy regular in-school meetups, playdates, and activities, fostering a strong sense of community.
Visit The Advent School at one of its upcoming Open Houses on Oct. 15, Oct. 22, and Nov. 19.
Belmont Day School
belmontday.org | 617-484-3078
Belmont Day is a coeducational, pre-kindergarten through grade 8 independent day school where students are held to high standards in a supportive, nurturing environment. Through a hands-on, innovative curriculum, students develop their voice and grow into confident communicators and leaders, well prepared for high school and life. Faculty are curriculum designers, mentors, and coaches who continually refine their practice through robust professional development.
Academic rigor is paired with a deep commitment to knowing each child. Teachers both challenge students and provide care, meeting students where they are and pushing them to think deeply, solve creatively, and communicate with clarity. Whether building a robot, staging a debate, planting in the garden, or exploring the woods on snowshoes, students are immersed in learning that is hands-on, interdisciplinary, and connected to the outdoors.
The Belmont Day community sees and celebrates each student. As a coeducational school, Belmont believes that learning alongside peers of all genders is essential to developing the mutual respect and collaborative abilities needed to thrive in the real world. Children learn to understand themselves and others and to lead with empathy. Grounded in six core values — honesty, caring, respect, responsibility, joy, and excellence — students become self-aware, compassionate, and prepared to thrive.
Learn more at an in-person Open House on Oct. 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or attend a virtual Open House on Nov. 15 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Boston College High School
bchigh.edu | 617-474-5010
Since 1863, Boston College High School — grounded in Jesuit values and committed to serving others — has been shaping young men of character, purpose, and conscience.
At BC High, students in grades 7-12 are immersed in a mission-driven community where leadership, faith, innovation, and justice are woven into every aspect of daily life. Through rigorous academics and the school’s Centers for Human Excellence, boys are challenged to think deeply, act courageously, and grow spiritually. BC High is more than preparation for college. It’s preparation for life.
Whether serving their communities, exploring global perspectives, or leading in the arts, sciences, or athletics, BC High students are supported every step of the way by dedicated faculty, a strong brotherhood, and values that last a lifetime. Graduates go on to transform industries, uplift communities, and lead lives of integrity. But before they change the world, they’re formed into good men — men ready to do what’s right.
BC High isn’t just a school. It’s a launchpad for lives that matter. Discover what sets BC High apart: learn more and register for an Open House on Oct. 25 or Dec. 7 at bchigh.edu.
Boston Trinity Academybostontrinity.org | 617-364-3700
Founded in 2002, Boston Trinity Academy was born out of the belief that a Christian foundation could enhance educational opportunity in Greater Boston. Faithful to historic Christianity and academically demanding, its mission is to reflect and engage with the city’s rich diversity.
The goal of Boston Trinity Academy is to provide an excellent college preparatory education to students from a wide range of socioeconomic and educational backgrounds — an education marked by humility, service, integrity, and accountability. This effort means students who are a traditional fit for a rigorous prep school are in classes with those who would not have had the same opportunity otherwise.
Boston Trinity regards learning as a pathway to the flourishing of both individuals and society. Students from various faith traditions, or none at all, form a vital part of the school’s culture and learn from each other in a wide variety of settings. Crucial to this endeavor is students’ willingness to engage in “difficult conversations,” addressing issues and ideas in ways that both challenge and strengthen their beliefs and commitments.
Students and their families can experience this vibrant community at open houses on Oct. 18 and Nov. 18. Learn more at bostontrinity.org/admissionevents.
British International School of Bostonbisboston.org | 617-522-2261
At the British International School of Boston (BISB), students receive a unique and rigorous education through carefully selected international curricula and a personalized approach to learning. The school’s dedicated teachers tailor the educational experience to meet the individual needs of each student, helping them achieve more than they ever thought possible. In the British International School’s diverse and welcoming international community, students from early childhood through high school are inspired to reach their highest potential and grow into confident global citizens, ready to create their future in an interconnected world.
As part of the Nord Anglia Education family of schools, students benefit from collaborations with world-renowned institutions such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The Juilliard School, UNICEF, and IMG Academy, amplifying their learning experiences and offering global perspectives. Discover the difference at BISB, where your child’s journey to excellence begins.
Catholic Memorialcatholicmemorial.org | 617-469-8000
The value of a Catholic Memorial (CM) education is derived from a mindset of excellence in the classroom, on the field, and through extracurricular participation. The CM faculty teach and coach students through methods attuned to how boys learn and process information, instilling in them ingenuity, adaptability, and self-made success. CM forges leaders who are faith-filled, have a strong work ethic, and know right from wrong. The school’s graduates attend America’s most respected colleges and universities and become leaders across Boston in business, law, government, military, and public safety.
A Catholic Memorial education builds platforms on which students can stand with confidence and look you in the eye while shaking your hand. CM is a brotherhood rooted in authentic diversity and fraternal trust and is a City of Boston school where character matters as much today as it did at its founding in 1957.
The Chestnut Hill School
tchs.org | 617-566-4394
The Chestnut Hill School (CHS), an independent, all-gender school for children age 3 through grade 6, believes that childhood optimism and enduring curiosity can transform the world. At CHS, students find meaning and joy in a diverse community that encourages all to question, take risks, and think critically as they grow into intellectually skilled, empathetic, self-empowered young learners.
The school’s goal is to create a place where students of all affinities, backgrounds, and cultures can build meaningful relationships with extraordinary faculty members and one another. As a leader in early childhood and elementary education, The Chestnut Hill School offers a rigorous math and literacy program along with special subjects ranging from art and music to science, technology, and Spanish. An extended day program provides the chance for students to enjoy extracurricular activities such as karate, robotics, chess, and athletics, all in the same nurturing environment. CHS is a place where all students feel seen, validated, and supported as they pursue academic excellence. The Chestnut Hill School is committed to offering financial assistance to qualified families. To learn more about The Chestnut Hill School and what it offers, visit tchs.org.
Commonwealth School
commschool.org | 617-266-7525
Discover an uncommon high school where 163 academically adventurous students thrive. Commonwealth School is an independent high school dedicated to intellectual and artistic exploration — where creativity and individuality flourish. Commonwealth’s thought-provoking curriculum is rooted in rigorous analysis, focused attention, discussion, and inquiry. About 85 percent of the faculty have advanced degrees, and they work closely with students to explore their interests, develop problem-solving skills, and boost their confidence.
College-level electives include Differential Equations, Life Drawing, Computer Science Theory, Caribbean Literature, Jazz Theory, and more. Commonwealth’s location in Boston’s Back Bay immerses students in the city and its opportunities, from conducting research at the Boston Public Library to interning at the State House to enjoying a cupcake on Newbury Street. Small classes and dedicated faculty advisors ensure personal attention for each student, and daily all-school meetings, weekly assemblies, and unique traditions create a close-knit community in which students feel both challenged and supported. Commonwealth students discover their passions, follow where their curiosity leads, and grow into thoughtful and inquisitive young adults who excel in college, career, and life. Students and their families can experience this dynamic environment at one of the school’s virtual open houses, happening on Oct. 6 and Nov. 16. After applying, students and families are invited to visit in person. Learn more at commschool.org/openhouse.
Dexter Southfield
dextersouthfield.org | 617-522-5544
Dexter Southfield is an independent, college preparatory day school for students in pre-K through grade 12. The school’s unique learning model — single-gender classrooms in pre-K through grade 8, and a coeducational environment in grades 9-12 — allows students to thrive academically and socially.
Dexter Southfield believes that students are at their best when they are happily challenged and that holding students to the highest standards goes hand in hand with deeply understanding their interests, supporting their passions, and celebrating what makes them unique. The school also believes in establishing a solid foundation of character, leadership, and intellectual curiosity to ensure students flourish in an ever-changing world. Dexter Southfield’s beautiful campus and world-class facilities allow students to explore countless interests and activities. Industry-leading partnerships extend the classroom and provide unique opportunities for research, career exploration, and learning.
The Fessenden School
www.fessenden.org | 617-630-2300
The Fessenden School in West Newton, Massachusetts, is more than an independent day and boarding school for boys in pre-K through 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 recognize faculty for understanding how boys learn best and for providing the individual support and encouragement that children need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Fessenden also has the distinction of being one of the few schools worldwide invited to partner with NuVu (an innovation school founded by Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates) to deliver an academic program that encourages students to be creative problem solvers, critical thinkers, and global citizens. NuVu helped Fessenden design its spectacular Ciongoli Center for Innovation and its project-based curriculum — a model that hundreds of educators have visited Fessenden to experience firsthand.
Visit www.fessenden.org/events to learn more or take a virtual or on-campus tour, offered weekly October through mid-December.
Fontbonne, The Early College of Boston
fontbonneboston.org | 617-696-3241
Fontbonne is a Catholic all-girls, college preparatory high school and early college serving students in grades 7-12 throughout Greater Boston and the South Shore. Inspiring remarkable girls since 1954, Fontbonne is a leader in private school education and a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston.
The student-centered curriculum challenges students to reach academic excellence while fostering collaboration and creativity. Through its Early College program, Fontbonne offers dual enrollment and college-level courses via partnerships with local higher education institutions. Students gain access to college programming and student life experiences that help them use their voices boldly and prepare for their futures.
Student life at Fontbonne cultivates a vibrant, active, and supportive community. Each student is encouraged to test her limits and try new things beyond the classroom. Leadership is not merely a title; students develop the skills to lead effectively and have countless opportunities for hands-on experience.
A Fontbonne education inspires students to question the status quo, spark meaningful conversations, and act with courage. Alumnae are faithful, fearless, and compassionate leaders shaping the future worldwide.
German International School Boston
gisbos.org | 617-783-2600
German International School Boston (GISB) is a bilingual independent school. The institution strives to inspire curiosity, imagination, and a lifelong love of learning. GISB is part of a worldwide network of 136 officially recognized German International Schools, allowing the school to award not only the Massachusetts high school diploma but also the German International Abitur. This prestigious honors-level diploma is recognized at European and American colleges and universities as an academic distinction.
Whether you are looking for a language-immersion preschool or want the benefits of the rich and rigorous German curriculum in elementary through high school, GISB works to ignite each student’s intellectual and creative potential, preparing them to shape the future.
GISB has no prior language requirements for preschool, pre-K, or kindergarten and offers a dedicated Fast Track program for students entering kindergarten through grade 5 with little or no German knowledge. Contact [email protected] to schedule a tour.
International School of Bostonisbos.org | 617-499-1451
When students go to school immersed in the once-in-a-lifetime possibilities of a global, multilingual education, they launch into the world ready to learn anything, connect with anyone, and be exceptional anywhere.At the International School of Boston (ISB), located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, at the intersection of Arlington and Somerville, students from pre-K through grade 12 are inspired to see the world as a place of infinite opportunity — one where friendships span continents, conversations flow naturally across languages, goals and dreams expand beyond borders, and diverse experiences build empathy, understanding, and a deeper connection to humanity. This is an education for all, one with far-reaching benefits that can impact opportunities and perspectives for life. At ISB, every lesson, interaction, and experience challenges the limits of a traditional education.Through a rigorous academic program, rich cultural experiences, and global perspectives, ISB prepares students to think critically, communicate in at least two languages, and engage with a diverse international community. Students learn alongside peers and faculty from more than 50 countries and participate in co-curriculars spanning the arts, athletics, and service.Learn more by attending an on-campus Open House on Nov. 1.
Kingsley Montessori Schoolkingsley.org | 617-226-4900
Kingsley Montessori School, located in Boston’s vibrant Back Bay, is a distinguished independent day school serving children from pre-K through grade 6. Blending Montessori principles with innovative educational practices, Kingsley offers a personalized learning experience that nurtures each child’s unique strengths and curiosity. The school is committed to fostering academic excellence in a supportive environment and empowering students to meet — and often exceed — their personal best.Kingsley emphasizes progressive, inquiry-based learning that supports both academic and social development. Graduates are well-prepared for success in top independent and public schools. The school takes pride in its deep understanding of each student and its collaborative partnerships with families, cultivating resilient explorers, confident learners, and empathetic citizens.At the heart of Kingsley is its close-knit community — from the lasting bonds formed in Early Childhood and Elementary programs to the strong connections among teachers, students, and families. Whether during classroom moments, school events, or playdates, Kingsley’s warm and engaged community is a defining element of the school experience.
Lesley Ellis Schoollesleyellis.org | 781-641-5987
Lesley Ellis School serves pre-K through grade 8 in a community that celebrates diversity and is defined by respect for all. From the moment students enter the iconic orange Lesley Ellis doors, they know what it means to belong, to be accepted, and to be challenged. Every student’s intellectual, physical, social, and emotional growth is nurtured and expertly guided at Lesley Ellis.
The robust and flexible academic program allows faculty to meet the individual needs of students while simultaneously helping them develop foundational social and emotional skills. The Lesley Ellis School course of study includes an arts program that exposes children to the vast canvas of creative expression available to them and a school-wide Spanish program beginning in the earliest years. The school also offers robust after-school, vacation, and summer programs along with an award-winning anti-bias curriculum that informs all aspects of the Lesley Ellis experience and reminds students that they are part of a larger global community that requires an ever-growing need for understanding and mindfulness. The faculty at Lesley Ellis are highly trained, committed, and enthusiastic, infusing each student’s experience with meaning and joy.
Mount Alvernia Academy
maa.school | 617-527-7540
There’s more to education than just knowledge. Mount Alvernia Academy (MAA) prioritizes educating the whole child — spiritually, intellectually, socially, and emotionally. With a rich history spanning 98 years, the school remains committed to its mission of educating and nurturing students in a challenging academic environment.
As an independent Catholic school, Mount Alvernia Academy begins a new chapter, strengthening its long-standing commitment to academic excellence and spiritual formation. Rooted in the Catholic Franciscan tradition, MAA fosters a values-based environment where each child is known, loved, and appreciated.
Serving students from preschool through grade 6, MAA’s experienced teachers, small-group instruction, and innovative approach provide young learners with the foundation needed to transition to competitive Catholic, independent, and exam schools. Nestled in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, on a 4-acre campus with views of Boston and Boston College, MAA offers a comprehensive experience enriched by a strong core curriculum and science labs. Students also benefit from robust programs in art, music, physical education, Spanish, and technology, as well as before- and after-school programs, enrichment activities, and summer offerings.
MAA’s holistic approach has been recognized with two National Blue Ribbon School awards for Academic Excellence in 2015 and 2022. Discover the Blue Ribbon difference at fall Open Houses on Oct. 15 and Nov. 7 or schedule a private tour. Financial aid is available for eligible families.
The Newman Schoolnewmanboston.org | 617-267-4530
At Newman, students live the motto “Heart Speaks to Heart.” Faculty relationships are the foundation of students’ intellectual exploration and personal growth. The International Baccalaureate curriculum cultivates students’ abilities to think critically, ask questions, learn across disciplines, and develop research skills to thrive in college and become global contributors.
Founded in 1945 and located on Marlborough Street in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, The Newman School serves students in grades 7-12 from Boston, surrounding towns, and 40 countries. The school offers the only comprehensive boarding program in the city, giving students the opportunity to live and learn in the heart of one of the nation’s great academic centers.
Students pursue their passions in athletics, the arts, and community service while embracing Boston as their extended campus. They develop a global perspective and a community-mindedness that enriches their ability to make an impact in the world. Small class sizes and a warm, caring environment ensure that every student is known, valued, and supported.
Noble and Greenough Schoolnobles.edu/admission | 781-320-7100
Noble and Greenough School (Nobles) is a day and five-day boarding school for grades 7-12 in Dedham, Massachusetts. Since 1866, Nobles has empowered students to embrace the moment and prepare for the future. In this vibrant intellectual environment, students challenge themselves, collaborate, and make learning a meaningful journey of exploration and growth.
Faculty share a genuine passion for and expertise in their subjects, and they mentor students to help them thrive academically, creatively, socially, and emotionally. The school’s values of curiosity, respect, belonging, playfulness, and generosity are embedded in every aspect of its curriculum, campus, and community. At Nobles, students pursue wonder, build strong relationships, and learn to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
NuVu High Schoolnuvuschool.org | 617-945-7716
A high school with no classes? NuVu turns the traditional model of education upside down by igniting a student’s love of learning through a series of hands-on, project-based design studios.
At this independent, nonprofit high school, students focus deeply on one studio at a time — often in tandem with an actual business or community partner — with a focus on design, engineering, art, and technology. A contemporary educational model created by Massachusetts Institute of Technology alumni, NuVu focuses on supporting the development of foundational skills and creative confidence. Students learn to navigate open-ended problems, collaborate, build empathy, expand their technical abilities, and communicate ideas using a variety of media.
If you seek learning beyond the classroom, then NuVu High School could be what you and your family have been looking for!
Park Street School
parkstreetschool.org | 617-523-7577
Situated in sunny Beacon Hill facilities, Park Street School (PSS) is celebrating 25 years of providing a continuous, integrated, and joy-filled education for children ages 2 to 12. At PSS, students explore and create in vibrant learning spaces. A robust academic program feeds students’ curiosity, builds strong foundations of knowledge at an early age, and inspires inquiry and lifelong learning. Faculty demonstrate care and compassion for students, encouraging them to grow in confidence, compassion, and empathy. Students are taught of God’s love for them and how to show respect for others, take risks in an affirming setting, and live generously.
Students actively participate in “out of the chair” activities and are enriched by creative hands-on experiences and cross-curricular integration. Creative problem-solving is encouraged as they interact with the curriculum and each other. PSS students are equipped to become global citizens, armed with a strong academic foundation, collaborative spirit, and critical-thinking skills. The school offers small class sizes, a diverse community, need-based financial aid, a talented faculty, competitive middle school placement, and aspirational college matriculation. Sign up at parkstreetschool.org to join an Open House — Oct. 20 at 6 p.m., Nov. 5 at 9 a.m., or Dec. 3 at 9 a.m. — or request an information packet.
The Roxbury Latin School
roxburylatin.org | 617-477-6317
Roxbury Latin cares, most of all, what kind of person a boy is. In designing a vital program, the school is alert to what is best and most effective in educating boys — but also dares to define what is in their best interest. Their program balances rigorous academic training with robust character development, including extensive support and deep care for each individual student. In part through a unique one-to-one advising program, Roxbury Latin promises to know and love each boy.
Founded in 1645, and located on 117 acres in West Roxbury, Roxbury Latin is a small, independent day school for boys in grades 7-12. The school’s comparatively low tuition — averaging $20,000 less than other Boston-area independent schools — and its ability to admit and enroll students without regard for their families’ ability to pay ensures a diverse student body.
Join Roxbury Latin for Open Houses on Saturday, Oct. 4 or Sunday, Nov. 2 to learn more about the school’s campus and culture, people and program.
Russian School of Mathematics
mathschool.com | 855-MATH-855
Russian School of Mathematics (RSM) is an award-winning after-school math enrichment program trusted by parents for over 25 years across more than 80 locations in North America, including 15 branches in Massachusetts and one in Nashua, New Hampshire. Founded by a passionate parent and gifted teacher, RSM has grown into a movement, now serving more than 80,000 students.
RSM’s approach consists of a continuous kindergarten through grade 12 curriculum taught by expert teachers in classrooms of peers who study together year after year. The school also offers a competition track for students interested in advanced topics and elite math contests.
Developed by a team of academics in mathematics, education, and child development, the curriculum is continually refined to reflect how children think and learn. The program harnesses a child’s natural inclinations to keep them engaged, challenged, and growing throughout each lesson. All RSM teachers have a background in math or a related field and a deep passion for the subject, guiding students to build logical, conceptual connections between ideas.
Featured in NPR and The Atlantic and ranked among the world’s best schools by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, RSM uses rigorous math study to develop fluency, intellect, and character. Schedule a free 30-minute student evaluation or view fall course schedules at mathschool.com.
Ursuline Academy
ursulineacademy.net | 781-326-6161
Ursuline Academy is an independent Catholic school for young women in grades 7-12 located on a private 28-acre campus in Dedham, Massachusetts. Each day, over 360 students come to the campus from 54 different towns around Greater Boston.
Based on the 500-year legacy of St. Angela Merici, Ursuline schools worldwide are rooted in a belief in the power of women, the importance of education, and a commitment to honing students’ God-given talents to better the world.
Ursuline offers a diverse college-preparatory curriculum that includes 20 Advanced Placement classes and 15 electives, including Music Theory, Visual Art & Design, Communication Arts, Drama, Python, Forensics, and Psychology. Robust programs in athletics, the arts, and technology round out the student experience, while a commitment to service and opportunities for leadership are emphasized for all.
Ursuline’s students become women who make a difference. In a tradition that combines the best of all-girls and Catholic schools, graduates emerge as women of integrity who engage in their communities with presence and purpose. They balance who they want to be as individuals with whom they are meant to be as global citizens. A full 100 percent of graduates matriculate at competitive colleges and universities across the country.
Xaverian Brothers High School
xbhs.com | 781-326-6392
Xaverian is a Catholic college-prep school for boys in grades 7-12. For over 60 years, Xaverian has helped to shape strong young men in the best sense of the word. At Xaverian, students discover the true meaning of strength in an inclusive community where the dignity of each person is respected so that all can thrive. Xaverian students are empowered to achieve beyond their expectations and share their gifts with a world in need.
Academics look different at Xaverian. With 95 percent of faculty holding advanced degrees and the school’s commitment to funding continuing education, teachers are at the cutting edge of their craft. They know how to meet the educational needs of adolescent boys so that they become confident lifelong learners, imbued with curiosity and equipped with the necessary skills to find the answers they seek. Xaverian graduates are men of character, strong critical thinkers, problem solvers, and contributors to society.
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