Birches School
birchesschool.org | 781-259-8100

At Birches, students learn in harmony with the natural world. Birches’ unique nature-based program allows students from Pre-K through grade 8 to develop authentic, meaningful relationships with nature and with each other. The immersive curriculum integrates in their distinct environment, allowing for curiosity, wonder, and discovery to thrive in both indoor and outdoor classrooms. The school offers multi-age classes that are rich in integrated, hands-on thematic learning, and take the time to make meaningful connections and delve deeply. They honor what makes each child unique and believe that learning should be a joyful, engaging partnership among students, teachers, peers, and families. Students are both academically challenged and supported at Birches, and they become creative thinkers, empathetic friends, mindful leaders, and lifelong learners. Located in Lincoln, MA, Birches is a small community  which was built with intention, so that each child benefits from the care and attention they need to flourish. Come see what learning in harmony with the natural world looks like at Birches. Attend the Fall Open House on Nov. 5 or email them at [email protected] to schedule a tour today.

Brimmer and May School
brimmer.org | 617-566-7462

Brimmer and May is a Pre-K through grade 12, all gender, independent day school that fosters active learners, compassionate leaders, and ethical global citizens. The ideal size of the school allows for personalized instruction in a student-centered, project-based learning environment. They’re big in terms of their ambitions for each student’s growth, academic achievements, and leadership skills. They’re broad in terms of their diversity, strengthened by a commitment to equity and anti-bias education. They’re huge in terms of the breadth, depth, and variety of curricular options and extracurricular opportunities. Yet, they’re small enough to have a true feeling of connection with one another. Small enough for each member of the class, group endeavor, athletic team, and community not only to participate, but also to shine. Stop by the campus in historic Chestnut Hill and see why Brimmer might just be the perfect fit. Visit brimmer.org to learn about open houses on Oct. 22 and Nov. 8 as well as other Admissions events throughout the fall.

Charles River School
charlesriverschool.org | 508-785-8213 

A progressive, independent Pre-K through grade 8 school in MetroWest Boston, Charles River School (CRS) has been creating lifelong learners for more than 100 years. CRS students explore new angles and think through disciplines by way of real-world themes. This has a profound effect on what they learn since they understand the “why.” With its educational approach, there are countless opportunities to measure achievement. CRS gauges students’ academic progress and social-emotional growth, recognizes their willingness to take risks, and champions intellectual curiosity. CRS students are surrounded by masterful teachers who are committed to collaboration and connection. CRS offers a co-teaching model with two full-time, experienced faculty members in each classroom. CRS’s unwavering commitment to equity, belonging, and community life is rooted in its mission to graduate students who “know themselves, understand others, and shape the future of our diverse world with confidence and compassion.” CRS is intentional in its ongoing work to cultivate an environment in which all members of the community learn the skills and develop the tools necessary to thrive in the ever-changing, 21st-century world. Learn more at the Open Houses on Oct. 15, Nov. 10, and Nov. 16, or go to charlesriverschool.org to discover more ways to connect.

Cushing Academy
cushing.org | 978-827-7000

Cushing Academy develops curious, creative, and confident learners and leaders. Founded as a co-educational institution in 1865, the school is located 60 miles from Boston and draws students (grades 9 through 12 and postgraduate) from more than 30 states and 30 countries to its 162-acre campus in Ashburnham, MA. Combining outstanding academics with a robust program of athletics, arts, and cultural offerings, the academy’s dynamic faculty leads a holistic, student-centered approach to learning. At Cushing, students build confidence and intellectual curiosity; they are encouraged by instructors and peers to explore and elevate their unique range of talents, abilities, and interests. Community plays an essential role in the Cushing experience; more than 96 percent of students live on campus and the school’s academic, social, and athletic support is singularly designed to promote opportunities for leadership and personal growth. At its core, Cushing Academy empowers students in all aspects of their lives and builds a foundation for a lifetime of independence, learning, and the pursuit of excellence.

Dedham Country Day School
dedhamcountryday.org | 781-329-0850

Dedham Country Day School believes that balance matters — in learning and in life. They combine challenge with support, pedagogical tradition with innovation, and robust academics with outstanding arts, athletics, and service to create a program that is balanced and whole. Children learn who they are as diverse individuals and as part of a broader community. Acceptance is a given, and children find encouragement in every connection they make. It’s a community that nurtures, nudges, and gives. That’s how DCD grows “whole” children with the intellectual and emotional capacity to contribute to their world and enjoy meaningful lives. Visit DCD’s 17+ acre campus and you’ll get an immediate sense of how children learn to think creatively and critically, with the support they need to better themselves and grow. From Pre-K through grade 8, students tackle hands-on projects, collaborate, take risks, solve problems, and, most of all, enjoy their experience. Connect with admissions to learn more, and join a classroom observation to experience a day in the life at DCD. Visit dedhamcountryday.org/admissions/ to learn more.

The Fenn School
fenn.org | 978-318-3606

Is your son ready for the responsibility, challenge, independence, and opportunity that Fenn provides boys in grades 4 through 9? Is he ready to speak before All School Meeting, run for Student Senate, organize a food drive, take center stage in a performance of Shakespeare, pursue creative ideas in the innovation lab, wood shop, and art studios, vie for a spot on Fenn’s math competition team, or inspire good sportsmanship as a team captain? Since 1929, Fenn has asked boys of strong intellect and promise to embody the motto, “Sua Sponte.” Loosely translated as “It’s in your hands,” it calls on them to take ownership of themselves, their education, and the well-being of others. Fenn boys are known and affirmed while building confidence, taking safe risks, and growing into their best selves with faculty as their champions. Nurturing relationships are a Fenn cornerstone as they teach the “whole boy” across a rigorous program of academics, athletics, and arts. Located in historic Concord yet drawing from 40+ cities and towns, Fenn’s diverse community is supported by robust transportation and tuition assistance programs. Learn more during a call with the admissions team or at the open house on Nov. 19 at 10 a.m.

Lesley Ellis School
lesleyellis.org | 781-641-5987

Lesley Ellis School serves preschoolers through eighth graders 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 developing foundational social and emotional skills. The Lesley Ellis program 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. It 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. They infuse each student’s experience with meaning and joy. Lesley Ellis looks forward to welcoming you to our close, supportive learning community.

Lexington Christian Academy
lca.edu | 781-862-7850

Since 1946, Lexington Christian Academy (LCA) has provided exceptional academic preparation, operating under the belief that faith and learning are inseparable and indispensable in a Christian education. LCA uses faith to build a stronger foundation of knowledge, critical thinking, curiosity, and a sincere quest for truth. In addition to LCA’s commitment to an excellent academic experience, is an equal commitment to an authentic and meaningful integration of faith into every aspect of learning. With weekly Chapel gatherings and connections to faith drawn in every classroom, LCA faculty take the work of spiritual formation seriously, seeking to develop faithful stewards and leaders of the emerging generation. The academy offers beautiful athletics facilities that are home to the LCA Lions — decorated and competitive EIL and NEPSAC teams. Their Maker Space is fully equipped to give students interdisciplinary opportunities to experiment and explore. Career Exploration Trips connect students with local companies/industries, including Mass General Hospital, local architecture firms, Boston Crime Lab, and Massachusetts State House. At LCA, students get hands-on experience and have the opportunity to discover their God-given gifts. For more information about LCA, contact them at [email protected].

Melmark New England
melmark.org | 978-654-4300

Every child is special, but at Melmark New England, students with intellectual, behavioral, or developmental disabilities are finding out exactly how special they are. Thanks to the premier, private, special education that Melmark NE provides, students once assigned to public classrooms with limited learning opportunities now have a place of their own. With Massachusetts locations in Andover and a newly opened Stoughton facility, Melmark NE helps students with complex behavioral and social disabilities, including autism, to navigate the world. Using a specially designed curriculum, small class sizes of six to eight students, a one-to-two student-to-teacher ratio, and a focus on vocational training, Melmark NE breaks down the barriers that many of its students have faced in the past. In fact, the school’s social gatherings, vocational opportunities, community trips, Field Days, and other scholarly and extracurricular activities, help students fulfill their social needs as well — many for the first time ever. A caring and compassionate, highly skilled staff means students also get the attention they deserve. Established in 1998 and now in its 25th year, Melmark NE offers day, residential, educational, and rehabilitative services not only for children and adolescents, but also for adults on the autism spectrum or with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information on what Melmark NE has to offer, visit melmark.org.

Montrose School
montroseschool.org | 508-359-2423

At Montrose, every student is called to greatness — not to perfection, but rather to the best version of herself, as a scholar and as a person. Montrose’s rich liberal arts curriculum empowers girls to ask life’s biggest questions and prepares them to thrive at top universities, moving them from passive to active learners and putting them in the driver’s seat of their own education. They graduate ready to navigate any challenge and seize any opportunity. Their nationally recognized LifeCompass character and leadership immersion program is integrated into every aspect of school life. As a two-time National School of Character, Montrose partners with parents to help girls develop the habits of mind, heart, and character they need to flourish — and to shape our world for good. Head of School Katie Elrod often reminds the girls, “You are unique, unrepeatable, and called by God to greatness. You are here for a purpose.” Come experience the Montrose difference for yourself. RSVP at montroseschool.org/oh2023 for the Open House on Oct. 22 at 1 p.m. and Curriculum Night on Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m. Montrose is an independent school for girls in grades 6 through 12, inspired by the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Nashoba Brooks School
nashobabrooks.org | 978-369-4591

Parents looking for a school that helps young students live a life of continuous learning, accomplishment, and leadership, need look no further than Nashoba Brooks School in Concord, MA. Amid a 30-acre campus filled with forests, gardens, and lush green fields, students of all genders from preschool through grade 3 and those who identify as girls in grades 4 through 8 are getting the encouragement and support they need to become the leaders of the next generation. Nashoba Brooks School does that by developing the confidence, community, and academic, athletic, and artistic skills needed for tomorrow’s successful leaders. Through small class sizes along with an interdisciplinary academic program that teaches how subjects interconnect, students learn not only about academic success, but also about inclusivity, collaboration, resilience, integrity, and empathy. After all, the school’s unofficial motto is “be kind, play fair, work hard, reach out”— all shared aspects that will help them throughout their life. There are also challenging extracurricular activities like a robotics club, intramural athletics, and yoga — activities that change each trimester. Middle Schoolers also participate in an integrated unit coordinated through C-SPAN for students to create documentaries and enter them into a national competition. The school’s young documentary filmmakers took home a third-place win and honorable mention for this year’s contest, proving once again that learning at Nashoba Brooks School can be both fun and rewarding. Learn more about Nashoba Brooks School by checking their website at nashobabrooks.org.

New England Innovation Academy
neiacademy.org | 508-205-4270

Students spend over 10,000 hours in school between sixth grade and high school graduation. New England Innovation Academy (NEIA) makes every hour count. NEIA is a day and boarding school for grades 6 through 12 where students learn by doing and prepare for college and beyond. Set on a stunning 26-acre campus in Marlborough, MA, NEIA meets students where they are to encourage creativity, courage, leadership, and an entrepreneurial mindset. By emphasizing student well-being and prioritizing learning over grades, NEIA guides students on the most remarkable, exciting journey of their lives: their education. The school’s holistic approach to integrated academics and hands-on learning experiences creates an enriching environment. The curriculum is comprehensive and explorative, from humanities to science to their cutting-edge innovation studio. Wherever your child’s interests lie, NEIA provides limitless opportunities for them to find and develop passions. They also offer a full and lively student life program, complete with athletics, explorations, and excursions. Explore NEIA by contacting the enrollment team at [email protected] or 508-205-4278.

Newton Country Day School
newtoncountryday.org | 617-244-4246

Courage and confidence. These words inspired Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat through the challenges she faced in realizing her groundbreaking vision: to establish a global network of schools to educate girls who would transform the world. Founded in France in the 1800s, Schools of the Sacred Heart now flourish in 44 countries and over 20 locations in the United States. Sacred Heart Schools share a common philosophy of providing an education serious in its principles, strong in its studies, and rich in a spirit of life and love. At Newton Country Day, they focus on the same core values reflected in Sacred Heart Schools worldwide. Highly motivated students and faculty of all faiths create a vibrant and welcoming community distinguished by vigorous intellect, thoughtful compassion, and joyful traditions. The program offers girls in grades 5 through 12 courses through the AP level, with an emphasis on project based learning. Arts, athletics, and community service are integral to the academic experience. Through the international Network of Sacred Heart Schools, students participate in service opportunities and academic exchanges across the world. Empowered by courage and confidence, young women graduate from Sacred Heart Schools eager to make a difference. The school’s open house is on Nov. 5.

Noble and Greenough School
nobles.edu | 781-320-7100

Noble and Greenough School (Nobles) is a day and five-day boarding school for grades 7 through 12 in Dedham, MA. The school is a vibrant intellectual environment where students seek to challenge themselves, collaborate with others, and make learning a meaningful journey of exploration and growth. Faculty share a genuine passion for Noble’s subjects and mentoring young people so that they can thrive academically, creatively, socially and emotionally. In the classroom, on the fields, and onstage, their steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is embedded in every facet of the curriculum and the school’s community. At Nobles, students are inspired to pursue their curiosity, build strong relationships, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. Visit to learn more. Nobles open houses: Oct. 21, 8:30-11:30 a.m. for grades 9-11; Oct. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m. for grades 7-8; and Dec. 9, 8:30-11:30 a.m. for grades 7-11.

The Russian School of Mathematics
mathschool.com | 855-MATH-855

When it comes to mathematics enrichment programs, there’s no better place for students than the Russian School of Mathematics. Recognized worldwide as one of “the top 10 schools for its academic excellence” by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, RSM helps students develop a deep understanding of mathematics and an advanced way of thinking about problem-solving. Its award-winning after-school program for students from kindergarten through grade 12 was perfected over 25 years by a team of curriculum and methodology experts. The program was based on the best practices used by math schools in the former Soviet Union and Europe and adapted to the US educational system. Teachers and administrators at the school believe quality math education is important for a child’s future success and they work to ensure that each child learns in a positive school environment. From beginner to competition, multiple levels in each grade enable the school to place each child in an environment best suited to them. As a result of that philosophy, RSM students have constantly posted remarkable scores on standardized tests and in national and international math competitions and earned admission to the world’s elite universities. Students at RSM also score higher grade point averages in school and show more confidence and strengthened problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. This year, RSM will offer in-school classes at its 15 Massachusetts locations. For more information or to schedule a free math evaluation test, call 855-MATH-855 or visit the RSM website: mathschool.com.

St. Sebastian’s School
discover.stsebs.org | 781-247-0125

Offering the best of Catholic and independent school traditions, St. Sebastian’s School in Needham, MA, serves 380 boys, grades 7 through 12, in an inclusive community of academic rigor and spiritual depth. The order of the day at St. Sebastian’s is to love God, work hard, and take good care of one another. Every boy is known, loved, and called to greatness by dedicated teachers. An extraordinarily small average class size of 10 enables students to pursue excellence in every discipline within the school’s structured Liberal Arts curriculum, while exceptional writing and chapel speaking programs empower them intellectually and spiritually. St. Sebastian’s commitment to diversity of all kinds and its $4.5 million in need-based financial aid attract bright, promising boys from many communities and backgrounds. Graduates leave prepared for and excited about the challenges they will face in college and beyond. For more information, visit discover.stsebs.org or attend the open house on Oct. 5 at 5:30 p.m.

Tenacre Country Day School
tenacrecds.org | 781-235-2282

Tenacre Country Day School’s mission “nurtures and challenges each child, every day.” This statement permeates everything they do, from their academic program to social development to leadership training to community-building. Coupled with a commitment that “as a community, we strive to work hard, to find joy, and to be kind,” their mission allows them to make the best of each student, from 4-year-old Pre-K early learners to 12-year-old near graduates, no matter who they are. Tenacre wants students to be confident learners, caring citizens, and critical thinkers. Tenacre’s academic program creates a strong foundation for students. Small classes and flexible groupings allow them to meet the needs of each student and provide the appropriate amount of nurture and challenge. Tenacre enriches children with extensions in curriculum and provides appropriate scaffolding for emerging talents. Special subjects — science, Spanish, technology, music, art, library, and physical education — play an important role in Tenacre’s program, and all of their students, Pre-K through grade 6, participate in special subjects. Parents looking for a positive school environment can find it at Tenacre where a supportive community and strong parent involvement provide an excellent foundation for a child’s future. For more information about Tenacre’s Open House on Nov. 4 and curriculum night on Nov. 14, visit tenacrecds.org.

Thacher Montessori School
thacherschool.org | 617-361-2522

Serving toddlers through eighth-grade students, Thacher is dedicated to nurturing a child’s innate love of learning and preparing them to succeed in all aspects of life. Teachers offer a comprehensive curriculum adapted to each child, a supportive environment that fosters independence, and a community that nurtures a child’s spirit by celebrating diversity and demonstrating respect. Each classroom teaching team provides a stimulating environment where children are inspired to explore, seek new knowledge, and confidently reach their social and academic potential. Thacher integrates core curriculum areas with Art, Athletics/PE/Wellness, Drama, Mandarin, Music, Spanish, and the world beyond the classroom walls. Thacher’s classrooms are filled with natural light and allow easy access to the outdoor environment. There is a two to three year age span for the students in each classroom; this provides for developing leadership potential, interpersonal skills, and a sense of community. Thacher strives to ensure that each child develops collaborative problem-solving and critical-thinking skills necessary for personal success. Well-prepared for their academic future and challenges, graduates transform other learners around them and help shape their next learning communities.

Thacher open house is Nov. 4, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. (no RSVP required). Information Sessions are on Nov. 16, Dec. 7, and Jan. 4 from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Get to Know Thacher (coffee and tour) is on Oct. 19 and Jan. 25. Please contact Nikki Toon ([email protected]) for more information or to register. School tours are available by appointment.

Ursuline Academy
ursulineacademy.net | 781-326-6161

Founded in 1946, Ursuline Academy is an independent, Catholic all-girls school for young women in grades 7 through 12 located in Dedham, MA. Based on the teachings of St. Angela Merici, who founded the Ursuline order, Ursuline believes in a world in which every young woman is empowered to find her voice, pursue her passions and discover new ones, create her individual identity, and prepare for a life of leadership, faith, and service in the world they will inherit. Students are challenged by a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum, 20 AP classes, and robust opportunities in arts, athletics, humanities, and technology. For more information about Ursuline Academy, visit ursulineacademy.net.

Wellan Montessori School
wellan.org | 617-969-4488

Discover the power of hands-on learning at Wellan, where students are inspired, challenged, and empowered to reach their highest potential. Located in Newton Centre, Wellan Montessori School is an independent, all-gender school for students ages 15 months through grade 8. This community-oriented school draws families from diverse backgrounds and currently includes students from 27 surrounding towns. Wellan’s Montessori-Progressive curriculum grants students the agency to forge their own personalized path, guided by thoughtful, highly trained educators. Engaging specials, like athletics, performing and visual arts, woodworking, and technology, are incorporated into the daily schedule. Wellan emphasizes innovation, community service, social justice, and empathy throughout the student experience. Graduates emerge as capable leaders who demonstrate strong academic skills that enable them to succeed at top-tier independent and public high schools. Interested in learning more? Visit wellan.org or contact Admissions directly at [email protected]. Need-based financial assistance is available.

Worcester Academy
worcesteracademy.org | 508-754-5302

Achievement. Collaboration. Creativity. Exploration. Excellence. Opportunity. It all starts here. At Worcester Academy, students dive deeply not only into subjects, but into self. They transform from simply viewing to seeing, from touching to feeling, doing to experiencing, knowing to understanding. An acclaimed independent school in the thriving city of Worcester, MA, Worcester Academy is a co-educational day and boarding school, founded in 1834, for students in grades 6 through 12 and postgraduates. On the 71-acre campus, students enjoy a rigorous, holistic and forward-focused education, connecting with a culture-rich local community and learning to Achieve the Honorable in the classroom and throughout their lives. They believe the best education is a well-rounded one and encourages students to explore their talents and passions to excel outside of the classroom as well. Worcester Academy students have won NASA grants to launch an experiment to space, celebrated storied athletic championships, showcased their creations at the world-class Worcester Art Museum, organized local restaurants to help fill the Worcester Community Fridges, and engaged in scientific research in Bermuda, the world’s northernmost coral reef system. Visit for a fall open house on Oct. 15 or Nov. 5 to discover more about Worcester Academy. Visit worcesteracademy.org/open-house to register.

Xaverian Brothers High School
xbhs.com | 781-326-6392

Xaverian Brothers High School is a Catholic, college-preparatory school for boys in grades 7 through 12. For 60 years, Xaverian has helped to shape strong young men in the best sense of the word; and that means much more than muscles and will. At Xaverian, young men discover the true meaning of strength in an inclusive community where the dignity of each person is respected so that all can thrive. Students are empowered to achieve beyond their expectations and share their gifts with a world in need. Academics look different at Xaverian. With 93 percent of faculty holding advanced degrees and the school’s commitment to funding continuing education and professional development, teachers are at the cutting edge of their craft. They know how to meet the educational needs of adolescent boys so that they graduate as confident lifelong learners, imbued with curiosity, and equipped with the skills to find the answers they seek. Xaverian Brothers young men are adept at much more than memorization; they are strong critical thinkers, problem solvers, and contributors to society. Visit xbhs.com/admissions to learn more, and join an open house on Oct. 29 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.