Acera School

aceraschool.org | 781-729-3489

Acera is built for advanced learners. It’s a kindergarten through grade 9 STEAM school in Greater Boston serving gifted students, keeping each child’s curiosity alive through purpose-filled projects, more than 40 electives, and an ability-based approach that removes the ceiling of what’s possible at school.

Students learn by ability, not age. A student ready for pre-algebra takes pre-algebra, middle schoolers take high-school-level chemistry, and kindergarteners study Newton’s laws. A 4-to-1 student-teacher ratio makes this possible.

Learning is hands-on, engaging, and rigorous. Acera’s interdisciplinary, project-based program challenges students to think deeply, ask meaningful questions, and apply learning to real problems. Units begin with questions like “What makes us human?” or “How can we redesign our environment?” Students carry them into something they design, build, or present. Engaging electives — taught by scientists, engineers, and artists — span genetics, robotics, architecture, game design, creative writing, and art.

Acera is where curious kids thrive. Engaging with advanced academics from an early age, Acera students develop the confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills to thrive in high school, college, and beyond. Of Acera alumni, 98 percent place at the top independent high school of their choice. Discover how Acera helps children thrive at aceraschool.org.

The Advent School

adventschool.org | 617-742-0520

Learn with Passion. Act with Courage. Change the World. The Advent School is an independent secular school for students in pre-K through grade 6. With outstanding academics, small class sizes, and a Reggio-inspired approach to academic rigor and social justice, Advent empowers kids to become confident and curious readers, writers, and thinkers.

Thematic learning — led by each classroom’s co-teachers — is the foundation of an Advent education. 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.

Students also enjoy classes in art, science and engineering, library, physical education, and music. These “specials” complement the school’s Reggio-inspired approach, encouraging children to explore, create, and connect with the world around them.

After school, students participate in a rich catalog of Enrichment classes and sports activities. Through The Advent 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, enjoying regular in-school meetups and fostering a strong sense of community.

Visit The Advent School at one of the school’s School Days or Saturday Open Houses on Oct. 7, Oct. 17, and Nov. 4.

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

What sets Boston College High School (BC High) apart is not simply what students achieve but who they become. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition and inspired by the call to be men for others, BC High challenges boys in grades 7 through 12 to pursue excellence with purpose. And beginning in fall 2027, BC High will welcome students in grade 6. 

Through five Centers of Human Excellence — Innovation, Leadership, Global Learning, Justice and Belonging, and Ignatian Identity & Formation — students develop the skills, character, and perspective to lead in a changing world. Woven throughout academics, athletics, service, retreats, leadership, and student life, these centers cultivate curiosity, confidence, empathy, global understanding, reflection, and a commitment to the common good.

At BC High, students are known, challenged, and supported as they grow into thoughtful scholars, compassionate leaders, and men of conscience — prepared not only for what’s next but for the impact they will make.

Experience BC High at open houses on Oct. 17 or Dec. 6. Discover why BC High is an education the world needs. Register at bchigh.edu.

British International School of Boston

bisboston.org | 617-522-2261

At the British International School of Boston (BISB), faculty inspire students to think boldly, explore deeply, and create their own future. From pre-K through high school, every student benefits from a personalized learning journey that combines academic excellence with meaningful real-world experiences, helping them develop the confidence, curiosity, and resilience needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

As part of Nord Anglia Education’s global family of schools, BISB offers exceptional opportunities through exclusive collaborations with world-renowned institutions, including Massachusetts Institute of Technology, The Juilliard School, UNICEF, and IMG Academy. These partnerships enrich learning beyond the classroom, encouraging students to solve complex challenges, develop their creativity, and make a positive impact locally and globally.

BISB’s diverse international community brings together families from more than 80 nationalities, creating an environment where different perspectives are celebrated and global citizenship is a way of life. Supported by expert educators who understand each child’s unique strengths and aspirations, students are challenged to achieve more than they thought possible while feeling valued, supported, and inspired every step of the way.

At BISB, learning goes beyond education. Students are empowered with the skills, mindset, and experiences to succeed at university, in their careers, and as compassionate leaders in an interconnected world. At BISB, students create their future, today.

Buckingham Browne & Nichols School

bbns.org/why-bbn | 617-547-6100

Across three campuses in Cambridge, Buckingham Browne & Nichols (BB&N) serves over 1,000 pre-K through grade 12 students from more than 75 cities and towns across the Greater Boston area. BB&N’s culture of academic excellence and inquiry-driven learning invites students to ask bold questions, test ideas, and take ownership of their learning journey.

In classrooms, labs, and studios, a dynamic and innovative academic program is paired with a robust sense of community. Exceptional faculty mentors know each BB&N student deeply, ensuring every child is encouraged to reach their full potential.

Beyond the classroom, BB&N offers competitive athletics, dynamic visual and performing arts, experiential global learning opportunities, and expansive co-curricular programs that allow students to explore new interests and engage open-mindedly with the world around them. Graduates leave prepared to thrive as lifelong learners who lead with kindness, curiosity, and integrity. 

BB&N believes that enrollment should be possible for any student and family, regardless of financial background. Contact [email protected] or visit bbns.org/why-bbn to explore campus life and learn more about BB&N.

The Chestnut Hill School

tchs.org | 617-566-4394

The Chestnut Hill School (CHS) — an independent, all-gender school for children ages 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, to take risks, and to 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, chess, athletics, and private music lessons, 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 its offerings, go to 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. Eighty-nine 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, Mandarin Literature, Film Analysis, Computer Science 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 boba tea 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 Dec. 6. After applying, students and families are cordially 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 distinctive learning model — single-gender classrooms in pre-K through grade 8 and a coeducational environment in grades 9 through 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 exceptional opportunities for research, career exploration, and learning.

The Fessenden School

www.fessenden.org | 617-630-2300

The Fessenden School, in West Newton, Mass., is more than an independent day and boarding school for boys in pre-K through grade 9 — it’s where tradition and innovation meet. Time-tested educational techniques are woven into a STEAM-inspired, passion-based curriculum, creating a diverse, inclusive, and nurturing community built on academic excellence and character development.

Parents consistently praise Fessenden’s faculty for understanding how boys learn best and for turning that understanding into the individualized support and encouragement each child needs to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Fessenden is also one of only a handful of schools worldwide invited to partner with NuVu, the innovation school founded by Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates, to deliver a program that cultivates creative problem solvers, critical thinkers, and global citizens. That partnership helped shape Fessenden’s Ciongoli Center for Innovation and its project-based curriculum — a model so distinctive that hundreds of educators have traveled to the school’s campus to see it in action.

To learn more, join a virtual or on-campus tour, offered weekly from October through mid-December. Visit www.fessenden.org/events to register.

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 through 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) inspires students in preschool through grade 12 to become bilingual, globally minded citizens who learn with purpose, act with responsibility, and lead with compassion. Grounded in a broad yet interconnected German-American dual-degree education and enriched through a multicultural community, GISB empowers students to thrive and pursue their aspirations in the United States, Germany, and abroad.

GISB’s students develop a global mindset rooted in compassion and ethical responsibility, build bilingual excellence and a love of learning, revel in strong community, and practice responsible leadership from an early age.

German foundations open global horizons: whether families seek a language-immersion preschool or a rich and rigorous German curriculum from elementary to 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 accelerated program for students entering kindergarten through grade 5 with little or no German knowledge. Contact [email protected] to schedule a tour.

International School of Boston

isbos.org | 617-499-1451

At the International School of Boston (ISB), students are immersed in the possibilities of a global, multilingual education that prepares them to thrive in an interconnected world.

Located in Cambridge, ISB offers bilingual French-English education from pre-K through grade 8, where students build strong academic foundations while developing fluency across languages and cultures. In grades 9 through 12, students pursue internationally recognized diploma pathways, including the International Baccalaureate program, which is taught entirely in English. This unique model welcomes students from both bilingual and English-speaking backgrounds, combining the rigor of a bilingual or International Baccalaureate education with the richness of an international school community. Students also benefit from innovative programs in STEM and global learning that connect classroom experiences with real-world issues and perspectives.

With a community representing more than 50 nationalities, ISB offers something few schools can: an authentic international environment where cross-cultural understanding is part of everyday life. Graduates are prepared for admission to leading universities in the United States and around the world, equipped with the confidence, perspective, and skills to collaborate across cultures, embrace new opportunities, and make an impact wherever their futures take them.

Kingsley Montessori School

kingsley.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 School

lesleyellis.org | 781-641-5987

What do families want most for their children? They want them to be challenged, inspired, supported, and deeply known. Most of all, they want their children to understand that they truly matter. At Lesley Ellis School in Arlington, four defining strengths make that experience possible: exceptional academics, a nationally recognized anti-bias curriculum, a vibrant arts program, and a deeply connected community.

At Lesley Ellis, academic excellence begins with curiosity. Small classes and a 6-to-1 student-teacher ratio allow teachers to know each child as a learner and provide the right balance of support and challenge. Anti-bias education is woven throughout the curriculum and daily life of the school, helping students understand themselves, value different perspectives, and engage with the world through empathy, respect, and action.

The arts give students opportunities to create, perform, experiment, and express themselves while building confidence, resilience, and collaboration. Throughout the school, students are known deeply by teachers, welcomed by peers, and supported by a community that believes in them.

Attend the school’s open house on Sunday, Nov. 8, from 1 to 3 p.m., and discover a community where children are challenged, celebrated, and reminded each day that they truly matter.

The Newman School

newmanboston.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 through 12 from Boston, surrounding towns, and 40 countries. The school offers the only comprehensive boarding program in the city, along with a robust day-student program, 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 School

nobles.edu/admission | 781-320-7100

Noble and Greenough School (Nobles) is a day and five-day boarding school for grades 7 through 12 in Dedham, Mass. 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.

The best way to get to know Nobles is to visit. Learn about upcoming admission events, including 2026 open houses, at nobles.edu/admission/visit/open-houses.

The Roxbury Latin School 

roxburylatin.org | 617-477-6317

Roxbury Latin cares, most of all, about what kind of person a boy is. In designing a vital program, Roxbury Latin is alert to what is best and most effective in educating boys — but also dares to define what is in their best interest. The school’s program balances excellent academic training with robust, intentional 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 through 12. The school’s comparatively low tuition — averaging $20,000 less than other Boston-area independent schools — and ability to admit and enroll students without regard for their families’ ability to pay ensure a diverse student body.

Families are invited to attend open houses on Saturday, Oct. 3, or Sunday, Nov. 15, to learn more about Roxbury Latin’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 program trusted by parents for nearly 30 years across more than 80 locations around the world. RSM’s unique approach consists of a continuous kindergarten through grade 12 curriculum, taught by expert educators, in a classroom environment of peers who study together year after year. RSM takes pride in ensuring each student learns in an environment that is optimal for them while boosting their intellect, confidence in math, and learning abilities.

The school’s program offers three levels to serve each child according to their knowledge and ability. In addition to the core program, the competition track is designed for students interested in advanced mathematical topics as well as participating in elite math competitions.

RSM’s curriculum was developed by a team of academics specializing in mathematics, education, and child development and has been perfected by the school’s internal curriculum department.

The best way to get started is by scheduling an evaluation. Student evaluations at RSM are 30-minute introductory sessions where parents and their children have the opportunity to learn about the RSM program and get to know the team. Schedule an evaluation at your nearest RSM branch.

Shady Hill School

shs.org | 617-520-5260

Shady Hill School is a coeducational day school serving students from Beginners (pre-K) through grade 8. At Shady Hill, joyful, active learning inspires students to be curious, thoughtful, and resourceful as their understanding of themselves and the world around them grows.

The school’s academic program emphasizes depth over breadth, with a distinctive yearlong approach called Central Subject. Each grade focuses on a specific topic based on a particular people, place, or time in history, encouraging students to ask questions, think critically, consider multiple perspectives, and make meaningful connections between the past and present. Through this work, students develop the academic and social-emotional skills to understand what matters in a complex and changing world.

Shady Hill students are bright, enthusiastic, and genuinely engaged in exploration and discovery. Most of all, they are connected to their learning and to one another. The school’s 11-acre Cambridge campus, just off the Charles River, reinforces that sense of community, with dedicated buildings for each grade as well as libraries, science and maker spaces, and spaces for math, the arts, and physical education.

Shady Hill School welcomes applications for all grades. Visit shs.org to learn more about Shady Hill and its admission process.

Ursuline Academy

ursulineacademy.net | 781-326-6161

Ursuline Academy is where girls discover who they are — and who they are called to become. An independent Catholic school for young women in grades 7 through 12, Ursuline combines the transformative power of an all-girls education with academic excellence and the breadth of opportunity to explore many interests. On the school’s 28-acre campus in Dedham, more than 350 students come together each day from 54 communities across Greater Boston.

Rooted in the 500-year legacy of St. Angela Merici, Ursuline believes in the power of educating young women to lead lives of purpose. At Ursuline Academy, students are encouraged to know their worth, recognize their God-given talents, and use those talents in service to others and the world.

Students are challenged to think deeply, create boldly, and find their passions through a diverse college-preparatory curriculum featuring 20 Advanced Placement courses and 15 electives, from Forensics to Psychology, Music Theory, Visual Art and Design, Communication Arts, and Drama. Leadership and service opportunities and robust programs in athletics, arts, and technology give every student space to pursue her strengths and develop her voice.

With a 100 percent college matriculation rate, Ursuline graduates pursue their studies at competitive colleges and universities across the country, carrying with them the confidence, character, and sense of purpose to lead lives of impact.

Xaverian Brothers High School

xbhs.com | 781-326-6392

For more than 60 years, Xaverian has helped young men discover and develop their unique gifts and talents, empowering them to contribute to an ever-evolving world. At this Catholic college preparatory school for boys in grades 7 through 12, every student is known, challenged, and supported. While academic achievement and athletic success are celebrated, students are equally recognized for acts of kindness, humility, respect, and compassion.

Xaverian offers the close-knit feel of a smaller school with the opportunities of a larger one. The end of the school day is only halftime, with countless ways to compete, create, serve, and lead. Whether taking part in one of Xaverian’s 18 athletic offerings, exploring interests through more than 40 clubs and activities, or joining one of the school’s fine and performing arts ensembles, every student is encouraged to find his place.

Xaverian teachers understand how young men learn best and are committed to helping them succeed. That’s why 95 percent of the school’s faculty hold advanced degrees and pursue continuous professional growth, preparing graduates for college, leadership, and a life of meaningful impact.