The Boston Public Schools offer a variety of academic, social, and cultural experiences that is hard to match anywhere—and students from pre-kindergarten through high school have many choices among our 144 schools.
Some are big, with more than 1,000 students, and some are small, with fewer than 200 students. Some are old (Boston Latin School was founded in 1635) and some are new (seven small high schools opened in 2005).
Twenty of our schools are “pilot schools,” offering innovations such as non-traditional school hours and new approaches to learning and school management. There are pilot schools at all levels—elementary, middle, and high school.
Most of our elementary schools are for kindergarten–grade 5; but we also have six schools just for early learners through grade 1 and a growing number of K–8 programs (20 by September 2007). And we are serving more 4-year-olds every year: 58 schools will offer K1 programs in 2007–2008.
High school students may choose from among more than 30 citywide high schools, including many small schools with special themes such as technology, engineering, and public service. A number of these schools have special application requirements.
Welcome to Our Schools
As the parent or guardian of a student in our schools, you are our most important and valued partner in our work to help your child become a successful, enthusiastic learner. We want to be sure you have all the information you need—especially if you are one of the thousands of families who will be visiting our schools this winter and choosing new schools for their children.
In this publication, we try to answer your questions on a range of subjects, including student achievement, before and after school programs, and special programs. But to get a real sense of our schools, it’s important to visit them. Here are a few things you will see and experience:
- We have smaller class sizes, comparable to many suburban school districts. In kindergarten–grade 2, the maximum class size is just 22 students.
- We offer full-day kindergarten for all five-year-olds, and I am pleased to announce that we are opening 23 new K1 classrooms for four-year-olds in addition to the 38 classrooms we’ve opened since 2005.
- Twenty-four of our high schools are part of the Boston Small Schools Network, each organized around a theme. Other BPS high schools offer Small Learning Communities, providing small, supportive learning environments within the larger high school. Small schools and learning communities help students feel more connected with their classmates and teachers and create an environment that encourages academic success.
- Inside our classrooms, you will find up-to-date textbooks and materials in every subject: English language arts, math, science, history/social studies, world languages, and the arts.
- Technology is a part of daily learning, with an average of one computer for every five students, and Internet access in every school.
Our Promotion Policy sets rigorous requirements for student promotion from grade to grade and for graduation. It also sets strict rules for student attendance. We look forward to working with parents to see that their students are in school every day and are completing homework assignments.
As you may know, students must pass the state-required MCAS—Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System—in English language arts (literature, language, and writing) and math in order to graduate from high school. What are we doing to make sure students meet the challenging requirements of the Boston Public Schools Promotion Policy and MCAS?
- All schools have strong, focused plans to teach reading, writing, and math, aligned to the curriculum standards set by the state. In the following pages, you will find more information on the programs we are using in these subjects. An important part of these plans is training for teachers and principals to help students achieve to higher standards.
- Many students need extra help to succeed in reading or math. Every student who is not scoring at the “proficient” level will have an Individual Student Success Plan, which identifies the student’s learning needs and the strategies the school will use to strengthen the student’s skills. In key grades, we’ve added teachers to our reading and math classes to work more closely with these students. We also provide students with more time to work on reading and math during the school day, and after school tutoring if they need it.
- Students who are not yet fluent in English face special challenges in the classroom. We are fully committed to helping every student learn English quickly, but also to advance in their study of literature, math, science, and history. Please see page 5 to learn about the options available for our English language learners.
- More than 70 elementary schools have after school programs with homework help, enrichment, and physical activities, and three of our middle schools have longer hours to give students extra time in both academics and electives.
The good news is that our efforts are working. This is why we were honored to receive the 2006 Broad Prize for Urban Education, recognizing the BPS as the best urban school district in the U.S. The goal of our school reform plan, Focus on Children II, is to continue improvement at a faster rate.
The 2007–2008 school year will be an exciting time of transition and new beginnings for the entire BPS community. But one thing will not change. All our schools will continue the hard work of improving teaching and learning so every student will achieve to high standards. The School Committee and our staff look forward to working with you to reach that goal. Thank you for choosing the Boston Public Schools.
Michael G. Contompasis
Superintendent of Schools
Table of Contents
Choosing a school
What are your choices?
Under Boston’s student assignment plan, the city is divided into three geographic “zones”—East, West, and North—for elementary and middle schools. Students may apply for:
- Schools in the zone in which they live
- Schools in other zones if the schools are within their “walk zone”
- Citywide K–8 and middle schools open to all students.
All high schools are citywide.
For a list of all the schools you may apply for, go to www.bostonpublicschools.org and click “School Choice,” then “What Are My Schools?”
How will you decide which school is best for your child?
Introducing the Boston Public Schools 2007 is a good place to start. In the following pages, we will answer many of your questions and introduce you to each of our schools.
Be sure to visit our website to read school profiles and learn all about the school choice and registration process: www.bostonpublicschools.org/register/.
Our three Family Resource Centers can really help, too. Staff can explain what each school offers, what your options are, and how to apply. They also have information about:
- Wait lists and transfers, if you want to change schools
- Programs for English language learners and for students with disabilities
- Programs for high achievers
- Before and after school programs
- Summer programs
- Parent education and opportunities for family involvement
- Community resources
…and much more!
Our Family Resource Centers are listed below. Call or drop by.
We encourage you to visit our schools and talk to relatives, friends, and neighbors whose children attend schools you are considering. All schools are open to visitors during regular school hours. If you want to visit classrooms and speak to the principal and staff, we recommend calling ahead for an appointment—or go during School Preview Time.
Thirty area employers, including the City of Boston, now offer up to four hours of paid time off to visit schools before registration. Check to see if your employer is one of them!
Other places that can help you choose schools are:
- Countdown to Kindergarten, 617-635-6816, www.countdowntokindergarten.org
If you are applying for kindergarten, Countdown has lots of information on how to choose a program, how help your child get ready for his or her exciting first year of school. - BPS Office of High School Renewal, www.highschoolrenewal.org
This website has detailed information on BPS high schools, including school profiles in many languages. - WGBH “Eye on Education” High School Choice website: www.wgbh.org/eyeoneducation/
If you’re an eighth grader living in Boston (or if you are in high school and want to transfer), you have dozens of high school choices. This website has lots of information and “tools” to help you and your family find the schools that match your interests.
Choosing a School—What to Ask
Ask the principal and teachers about:
- The school’s philosophy and expectations for every student
- Student achievement, measured by test scores and performance on projects and written assignments
- The school’s plans to help students achieve at higher levels
- The curriculum: what will your child learn in every subject?
- Resources that support active learning, including the library and technology
- Teaching styles to match your child’s learning style
- Before and after school programs serving the school and neighborhood
- Opportunities for art, music, and physical exercise
- Support services available to students and their families, such as counseling and health services
- School uniforms and dress codes.
Who needs to apply for school?
Students who go to a Boston public school now may stay in the school through the school’s highest grade. They do not need to complete an application.
A student must apply for school if…
- The student attends a BPS school and is in the school’s highest grade this year—for example, grade 1 in an Early Learning/Early Education Center, grade 5 in a K–5 school, or grade 8 in a middle school or K–8 school.
- The student is in kindergarten–grade 8 and the family moves to a different zone. However, the student may stay in the same school if the parent/guardian agrees to provide transportation.
- The student is in a special program and must go to a different school for a new program.
- The student wants to transfer to another school.
- The student doesn’t attend the Boston Public Schools now.
According to state law, each child must attend school beginning in September of the calendar year in which the child turns six years old. Failure to send a child to school could result in legal action against the parent.
Where to Register
Students who are currently enrolled in the Boston Public Schools will get their applications from their school.
Parents of new-to-Boston students may pre-register on the BPS website. But to complete the process, they must visit a BPS Family Resource Center.
Required Documents
When you go to register, bring…
- At least three preprinted proofs of your current address in the City of Boston (see details below).
- An original birth certificate (with raised seal) or passport for children registering for kindergarten or grade 1.
- Up-to-date immunization records (see details on this page).
Completing the Application
The application form lists all the schools you may choose.
- Make at least FIVE choices.
- Choose as many schools as you wish.
- Number your choices in order of your preference.
- If you are applying for high school, ask about schools with special admission procedures.
- Save your copy of the application in case there’s a problem.
More Walk Zone Choices!
Students may apply for any Early Education Center, Early Learning Center, elementary school, or middle school located within their walk zone—even if the school is in a different assignment zone from where the student lives. For example, if Maria lives in Mattapan (the East Zone), but within a mile of the Haley Elementary School (a West Zone school), Maria can apply to the Haley.
Family Resource Center staff can tell you which schools are walk zone choices for your child. You can also find out your walk zone choices on our website: www.bostonpublicschools.org/register/ and click “What are my schools?” No distinction will be made between walk zone students who live in one assignment zone versus another for assignment purposes.
Students may apply for their walk zone schools during any registration period.
Residency Requirement for Students
In order to attend Boston Public Schools, a student must live in the City of Boston. The residence of a child under age 18 is the legal residence of the parent(s) or guardian(s) who has physical custody of the child. A student who is age 18 or older may establish a residence separate from his or her parents or guardians for school attendance purposes.
“Residence” is the place where a person lives permanently. Temporary residence in the City of Boston, solely for the purpose of attending a Boston public school, is not considered “residency.”
This residency policy does not apply to homeless students. Questions regarding homeless students should be directed to the Office of Legal Advisor, 617-635-9320.
Verification of City of Boston Residency
Before any student is assigned to or invited to attend a Boston Public School, his/her parent or legal guardian must provide at least three proofs of residency in the City of Boston. Documents must be pre-printed with the name and address of the student’s parent or guardian and must be presented at the Family Resource Center at the time of registration. Please note that legal guardianship requires additional documentation from a court or agency.
These documents are also required for any change of address.
| GROUP A • Copy of deed AND record of most recent mortgage payment * • Copy of Lease (including BHA and HUD leases) AND record of most recent rent payment * • Legal affidavit from landlord affirming tenancy AND record of most recent rent payment * • Section 8 agreement * You must submit BOTH of these documents. |
GROUP B A utility bill or work order dated within the past 60 days: • Gas bill • Oil bill • Electric bill • Home telephone bill • Cable bill If a family is sharing housing with an individual or family and does not pay rent, the family may submit a utility bill in the name of the person who owns or leases the property. |
GROUP C • Valid driver’s license (MA) • Current vehicle registration • Valid Massachusetts photo identification card • Valid passport Dated within the past year: • W-2 form • Excise tax bill • Property tax bill Dated within the past 60 days: • Letter from an approved government agency • Payroll stub • Bank or credit card statement |
Any school with an approved special admissions policy may opt to accept applications from non-resident students, but only students who have presented three valid proofs of Boston residency may be invited or offered admission to a Boston Public School.
Any student found to be in violation of the residency policy will be dismissed immediately from the Boston Public Schools. The parent/guardian of a student dismissed for non-residency may appeal the decision. The student may be allowed to remain in school during the appeal procedure.
In addition to dismissal from school, the Boston Public Schools may impose penalties on the family such as legal action, a fine based on the cost of educational services received, and the withholding of certain scholarships and prizes.
When to Apply
First registration period
January 5–February 2, 2007
Kindergarten, Grade 6 & Grade 9 only
New Registrations & Transfer Requests
For the best service, if the parent or guardian’s name begins with:
A–I Register January 5–12
J–Q Register January 16–19
R–Z Register January 22–26
All: Register January 29–February 2
SECOND REGISTRATION PERIOD
February 5 -March 23, 2007
Kindergarten and Grades 1–12:
New Registrations & Transfer Requests
THIRD REGISTRATION PERIOD
March 26–May 4, 2007
Kindergarten and Grades 1–12:
New Registrations & Transfer Requests
FOURTH REGISTRATION PERIOD
May 7–June 8, 2007
Kindergarten and Grades 1–12
New Registrations & Transfer Requests
You will receive the notice of your child’s assignment by mail. Assignments are usually mailed about six weeks after the close of the registration period.
In the spring, we mail an RSVP form to students assigned to the BPS. If you know your child will not attend the Boston Public Schools in September, please sign and return the form so we can assign another student from the wait list. You can also use the RSVP form to tell us if you want to stay on wait lists for other schools.
Immunizations
The Boston Public Schools requires that students must have immunizations that are up-to-date for school entry at the time they register for school. This means that the following immunizations need to be in place at registration:
| Item | Grade: K0 (age 3) | K1/K2 (ages 4–5) | Gr. 1–6 | Gr. 7–12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis B: | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| DtaP/DTP/DT/Td: | ≥4 | 5 | 4 or 3 | 4 or 3 + |
| Td booster: | 1 | |||
| Polio: | ≥3 | 4 | ≥3 | ≥3 |
| Hib: | 1-4 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| MMR: | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Varicella (chickenpox): | 1* | 1* | 1* | 1–2* |
(*or documentation of disease)
To learn more, go to: www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/epii/imm/school_req/schoolentry.pdf. Contact BPS Health Services, 617-635-6788, if you have questions. In addition, we strongly recommend that your child have a Tuberculosis Risk Assessment.
When you register your child for school, you must submit a doctor’s record stating your child has had the required immunizations. The record must include the month, day and year when the immunizations were given. If you need a copy of the immunization record or have questions, contact your doctor or health center. If you don’t have a doctor or health center, call the Mayor’s Health Line, 800-847-0710. Please allow two to three weeks for your doctor or health center to copy records.
Keep in mind that school nurses review immunization records regularly.
By law, students whose immunizations are not up to date may be excluded from school.
Special Situations. Except in an emergency or epidemic, students may start school if a parent or guardian presents a written statement from a physician that their child has not been immunized for medical reasons, or a letter stating that immunization conflicts with his or her religious beliefs.
Please see below for information on physical examinations.
How does the Boston Public Schools assign students?
Assignments are made by a computer that is programmed with a mathematical formula. The computer program tries to assign students to their highest listed choice for which they have the highest priority.
What are priorities?
Sometimes a school doesn’t have room for every student who lists it as a choice. When this happens, the computer assigns students based on choice and priorities. Here are the major priorities, with the highest listed first:
- Sibling + walk zone
- Sibling
- Walk zone (a priority for 50% of available seats)
- Random number
Within each assignment period, students with the highest priority are assigned first.
Sibling Priority
We try to assign children in the same family to the same school if the parent requests it. If you want your children to go to the same school, ask the Family Resource Center staff how to apply for sibling priority. But sometimes a school doesn’t have room for all the siblings who apply for it; so we can’t guarantee sibling assignments.
Be sure to list sibling preference the first time you apply!
Walk Zone Priority
Fifty percent (one-half) of each school’s seats are set aside for applicants with walk zone priority. Students have walk zone priority if they live approximately:
- 1 mile or less from elementary school
- 1.5 miles or less from middle school
- 2 miles or less from high school.
Students will receive priority for their walk zone schools within each registration period. No distinction will be made between students who live in one assignment zone versus another for assignment purposes.
Your child may be eligible for transportation to some of his or her walk zone choices. That’s because the distances between home and school used to determine eligibility for bus transportation are different from the distances used to determine walk zone priority. Schools coded ‘WT’ are walk zone choices for your child with transportation provided.
What about students who don’t live in the walk zone of any school?
- K2–Grade 12: Every home address in Boston has at least one walk zone school.
- K1: Students who don’t have a walk zone K1 program will have walk zone priority for the K1 program closest to home.
- K0: Students who don’t have a walk zone K0 program will not have walk zone priority for any school.
There is no walk zone priority for citywide elementary and middle schools (except for Mission Hill School). Orchard Gardens K–8 School sets aside 75% of its seats for students in its walk zone.
New Priority for EEC and ELC Students Applying for Grade 2
Students completing grade 1 at an Early Learning Center (ELC) or Early Education Center (EEC) will be assigned to available grade 2 seats before students new to the BPS or those applying for transfers from other elementary schools. Other priorities apply.
When assigning these students to grade 2 seats, including assignments from wait lists, the usual factors will be considered, including the registration period when the students applied, priorities, and random number.
Random Numbers
The computer gives each application a random number. Random numbers are used to break “ties” between students who have the same priorities for the school.
How does this work? Let’s say there is one seat left for K2 at the Kenny School. All applicants with sibling and walk zone priority have been assigned. Three additional students, all without sibling or walk zone priority, listed the Kenny as their first choice. The student with the lowest (“best”) random number will be assigned.
East Boston Assignments
Any student who lives in East Boston (EB) is guaranteed a seat somewhere in EB. This applies to students in all grades and programs, K2–grade 12. To take advantage of this guarantee, families must list their EB choices higher on the application than their non-EB choices.
Wait Lists
If you don’t get your first choice, the computer will try to assign your child to one of your other choices. It will also place your child on wait lists. Here are the rules:
- The BPS will create wait lists for all schools where there are more applicants than available seats for a particular grade.
- The number of places on each wait list will be limited to 12 or to 25% (one-fourth) of the number of seats in the grade, whichever is larger. (The only exceptions are two-way bilingual programs and other schools with special admission procedures, which may have longer wait lists or none at all.)
- A student’s place on the wait list is based on the registration period when the student applied, sibling priority, the school choices selected on the application, and random number. No student will have a lower place on a wait list than any student who applied in a later registration round, regardless of priorities.
- Students applying for kindergarten through grade 12 who are not assigned to their first choice school may be placed on up to two wait lists from among their other choices, if wait list spaces are available.
- Students applying for grades 1–12 who do not receive an assignment to any of the schools of their choice—i.e., students who are “administratively assigned”—may be placed on wait lists for up to three of their schools of choice, if wait list spaces are available.
- Families may request that a student be added to any wait list (to a school for which they are eligible to apply) if the wait list has not reached the 25% cap. However, students may not occupy more than the number of wait lists prescribed above. Students already on the maximum number of wait lists must go off one list in order to be added to another.
- Any student who remains a Boston resident may remain on a wait list after the beginning of the school year, regardless of whether or not the student attends the Boston Public Schools.
All wait lists expire at the end of the second marking period (January of the following year).
When seats become available, students will be assigned from wait lists in the following order, beginning with students who applied in the earliest rounds:
If the school has not reached its 50% walk zone target, students are assigned from wait lists in this order:
- Students with sibling + walk zone priority
- Students with sibling priority
- Students with walk zone priority
- Students with no priorities
If the school has reached its 50% walk zone target, students are assigned in this order:
- Students with sibling priority (no additional priority for walk zone)
- All other students (no walk zone priority)
Random numbers will be used as “tie-breakers” among students with the same priorities.
You can find out your child’s wait list status by calling any Family Resource Center at the end of each application period. In August and September, you can also call the School Hotline, 617-635-9046.
Administrative Assignments
State law says each child must attend school beginning in September of the calendar year in which the child turns six years old. If you don’t receive one of your school choices, or if you don’t return an application for a student age six and older starting a “transition grade,” we will assign the student to the school closest to home that has a seat.
If your child will be under age six through December 31, 2007, we will not automatically assign your child to a school you did not choose.
Transfers
If you want to change schools, you can apply for a transfer during the first registration period, January 5–February 2, 2007 (kindergarten, grade 6 and grade 9), second registration period, February 5– March 23, 2007 (all grades), or later.
All transfer requests received within each registration period are processed together. Requests received after September 30 will be collected and processed in early November and late January. We can’t guarantee your transfer request will be approved.
The BPS limits the number of times students can transfer to a different school:
- Elementary School: Once per year in kindergarten–grade 5.
- Middle School: Only once in grades 6–8.
- High School: Only once in grades 9–12.
Disciplinary Transfers. Students in grades 6–12 who are transferred for disciplinary reasons will be assigned to an alternative program.
Expulsion
Students who have been expelled from other school districts for possession of a dangerous weapon, controlled substance, assault on school staff, or conviction of a felony may not enroll in the Boston Public Schools. If the BPS finds out that a student has been expelled from his or her previous school for any of these reasons, the student will be discharged from the Boston Public Schools [M.G.L. c.71, s.37H, s.37H 1/2].
If You Move
- Bring the proofs of your new address listed above to any Family Resource Center right away. If you don’t have proof of your new address, call the Center for advice.
- We can’t change your bus stop until you change your address at the Family Resource Center.
- If you move to a different zone, your child may have to change schools. However, your child may be able to stay in his or her current school if you agree to provide transportation.
- Remember to give the school principal your new address and phone number.
Homeless Students
If you move to a shelter, are doubled-up, or are living in any other temporary situation, go to any Family Resource Center and give them your new address.
Children have the right to stay in their school of origin for the entire time they are homeless, even if they move to a different school district. Students have the right to stay at their school of origin whether or not they live with their parents. You may also choose to enroll in a school within the new zone, town, or city where you live temporarily. If you become homeless during the summer and have to move, your child can return to the school that he or she last attended. Transportation will be provided unless your new address is within the “walk zone” of your child’s school.
If you move into permanent housing during the school year, your child may finish the year in the same school. However, transportation will not be provided unless your child is eligible for transportation to the school under Boston Public Schools policy.
For help, call the Homeless Student Initiative, 617-635-8037.
Transportation
About one-third of our 57,400 students walk to school, and the rest go by school bus or MBTA. Who is eligible for transportation?
- Students who live one mile or more from their kindergarten and elementary school
- Students who live one and a half miles or more from their middle school
- Students who live two miles or more from their high school.
Most students who take a school bus are picked up and dropped off at a corner near their home. Eligible high school students and some middle school students get an MBTA ( “T”) pass or a combination of T pass and school bus.
When your child is assigned to school, we will tell you if your child is eligible for transportation. In late August, we will mail you information about your child’s bus stop, bus number, and schedule.
Transportation for Disabled Students
Children with disabilities may receive corner-to-corner service, MBTA service, or door-to-door service, as required in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Some students with severe medical or physical conditions which prevent them from walking to school may receive transportation. Contact the principal to request this service. Our Medical Services Office will decide if a student is eligible for transportation after reviewing documents from the student’s doctor as well as input from school staff. The school nurse will give you the required health forms and will discuss with your child’s doctor the appropriate accommodations to meet your child’s needs. During the summer, call Medical Services, 617-635-6788.
PLEASE NOTE: Except for some medical conditions, most medical transportation is not automatically renewed. You must reapply each year.
We cannot make special transportation arrangements for children whose parent or guardian is disabled—but we may be able to assign a corner stop closer to home. Please discuss these requests with the school nurse.
Alternative Transportation
You can request “alternative transportation” to or from a bus stop other than your neighborhood stop (such as a day care provider’s house or after school program). Students who are not eligible for transportation to and from home may also request this service. Your request is subject to these restrictions:
- The stop you request must be on an existing bus route and must not add time to the route.
- There must be room on the bus for new students assigned to the bus route.
- We do not provide door-to-door service unless it is required in an IEP.
For a Fact Sheet and application for alternative transportation:
- Go to: www.bostonpublicshools.org/ info/alttransport.asp
- Ask the principal
- Visit any Family Resource Center.
We send an informational letter about alternative transportation to parents of all currently enrolled students in May.
If you return a complete application for alternative transportation by the end of the school year, and if the stop is approved, your child’s alternative stop will be active by the first day of school. If you wait until the start of the school year, your request may take several weeks.
Transportation Tips
- We cannot guarantee that your child will get the alternative stop or service that you request.
- Do not apply for alternative transportation in order to change the bus stop if you have moved or are requesting a closer stop. When you submit your “change of address” to any Family Resource Center, we will automatically give your child a new bus stop near your new home if you are eligible for transportation.
- The Transportation Department at Court St. does not process “change of address” information.
- If you think your child’s bus stop is too far from home or is dangerous, you may be able to change it. But remember, students may be required to walk several blocks to their bus stop.
- If the School Dept. has determined that your child lives within the required distance to the school and you disagree, you can ask us to measure the distance from your house to the school.
For help with transportation
Year-round 617-635-9520
School Hot Line 617-635-9046
January 4-February 2, 2007 and mid-August through mid-September
Boston Public Schools Programs
From the first year of kindergarten through the last year of high school, we have high expectations for every student, in every subject.
- Every school is implementing the BPS Promotion Policy that requires students to complete—and pass—specific courses and tests. Most schools provide extra help during the school day and after school for students who are having trouble meeting the promotion requirements.
- Every school is focusing on literacy—reading and writing. All schools use a “workshop” approach to instruction. Each lesson focuses on a specific teaching point. Then, students work independently and in small groups with support from the teacher to apply the lesson just learned. Students sometimes choose their own reading materials and writing topics, with direction from the teacher. At the end of the workshop, students share their work to display and assess what they have learned.
- Every school is focusing on math. All students are taught the math concepts and skills required by the state. Every school at each level—elementary, middle, and high—uses the same instructional materials:
- TERC Investigations in elementary schools
- Connected Math in middle schools
- Math Connections in high schools
- EVERY SCHOOL is focusing on science to prepare our students for higher education and careers in science, as well as for the MCAS science test (a graduation requirement beginning with the Class of 2010). Thanks to support from major grants, our new “hands-on” science curriculum is one of the strongest in the U.S.
For information on the courses students must take and pass to be promoted to the next grade, pick up a copy of the 2006-2007 Guide to the Boston Public Schools for Families and Students. It is available at all BPS Family Resource Centers, the central office at 26 Court St. downtown, and on the BPS website.
While high standards are the rule in all schools, each school offers unique programs, themes, and approaches to learning. For example, all elementary schools must provide 90 hours a year (an average of 30 minutes per day) of arts-related classes. Some schools may offer exceptional music programs, while others have fantastic visual art programs.
When you are choosing schools, look for special classes and programs that match your child’s needs and interests.
Kindergarten
We offer several options to get beginning students off to a successful start:
- Kindergarten 2. Our goal is to offer the best possible preparation for children entering grade 1. To meet this goal, we provide a six-hour K2 program for five-year-olds in all elementary schools. We guarantee a school assignment for all children who apply for full-day K2—but we can’t guarantee an assignment to a school you choose.
- Kindergarten for younger students. K1 is growing! In 2005 and 2006, we added 38 new full-day classes for 4-year-olds, and in 2007 we will open 23 more—a total of more than 1,300 new K1 seats. We also have a very limited number of openings in K0 for children who turn three years old by September 1, 2007. We regret that we cannot guarantee an assignment to these programs.
- Schools for Early Learners. We have six schools—two in each zone—that offer full-day kindergarten (starting with K0 or K1) through grade 1, plus before and after school care from 7:30 am to 5 pm, all free. Seats are limited and wait lists are long for these popular programs.
“Countdown to Kindergarten”
This partnership between the BPS, City of Boston, and many community organizations is working to provide a positive transition into BPS kindergarten for students and their families. Pick up copies of their publications, available in many languages, at any Family Resource Center, or call 617-63LEARN (617-635-3276), or visit their excellent website:
www.countdowntokindergarten.org
- All regular education kindergarten students are guaranteed a seat through the highest grade of their kindergarten school, following the guidelines of our student assignment plan.
- We regret that we can’t make exceptions to our entry age guidelines, regardless of your child’s previous school experience.
- State law says each child must attend school beginning in September of the calendar year in which the child turns six years old. If your child turns six from September 1–December 31, we will assign him or her to K2.
- If you need a program for your three- or four-year-old, we urge you also to check out Head Start, Child Care Choices of Boston (phone numbers on page 7), and other preschool options. Our program for four-year-olds is expanding, but we can’t guarantee an assignment for all applicants.
Support for English Language Learners
617-635-9435 Information
617-635-9010 Testing & Placement
For more than one-third of our students, English is not their native language. We offer several programs and services to help these students learn English quickly while they also advance in their study of literature, math, science, technology, and social studies.
Most English learners will be placed in Sheltered English Instruction (SEI) classes with specially trained teachers. Structured English Immersion is offered in regular education classrooms in all schools where there is one or more English language learner.
Once students are able to do regular schoolwork in English, they will be transferred to English language mainstream classrooms.
Students who do not benefit from an English-only program may obtain a waiver and receive transitional bilingual education or other form of language support. If you think your child is not ready for an English-only program, schedule a meeting with the teacher and ask how to apply for a waiver, or call the Office of Language Learning & Support Services, 617-635-9435.
Three schools—S. Greenwood K–8, Hernandez K–8, and Hurley K–6—offer two-way dual language programs, where qualified students whose first language is either English or Spanish learn all subjects together in both languages.
We also offer a native language literacy program specially designed for students who have had limited schooling, and a high school for students new to the United States. These students may need more than four years of high school to graduate.
All students who are not native English speakers will be tested for English proficiency. For these students and their families, the first step is to visit the North Zone Family Resource Center (see page 28 for location and hours). Please arrive at least one hour before closing time. The multilingual staff will explain your choices and help you find the best program to meet your child’s language and learning needs.
The Newcomer Assessment Center
617-635-1565
This is a service for new-to-Boston high school-age students who are English language learners. It offers:
- Language testing in the native language and English
- Education and career counseling
- Orientation to the Boston Public Schools and city services
- Information and resources for families.
The Newcomer Assessment Center is open on school days, 8 am to 4 pm at Madison Park Technical Vocational High School.
Unified Student Services
The Boston Public Schools Unified Student Services Team provides services for students with and without disabilities—in special education and the support service areas:
Special Education
617-635-8599
We offer a wide variety of special education services for students who have a disability or a combination of disabilities that make learning difficult. These services include specialized instruction, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, vision resources, and more. Many schools use “inclusionary” practices so students with disabilities can receive services in the regular education classroom.
If you think your child has a disability, contact the principal or Evaluation Team Facilitator (ETF) at the Boston public school he or she attends. If your child does not attend a Boston public school, contact any Family Resource Center, or call our Special Education specialists at 617-635-8599.
Student Support Services
617-635-8030
Our schools offer a wide range of support services for students of all ages through the Student Support Team at each school. These services include physical health and mental health services, counseling, guidance services for students applying for college, crisis services, substance abuse and violence prevention programs, peer mediation training, services for students who are homeless, and much more.
Advanced Work Class (AWC)
617-635-9450 Testing
617-635-9512 Assignments
617-635-9202 Curriculum
Advanced Work Class (AWC) is a full-day program for eligible students in grades 4, 5, and 6. AWC includes the same topics as the regular education program. However, the topics are studied in depth, course work is challenging and accelerated, and students generally are expected to do more schoolwork and homework. In addition, students receive instruction in a world language.
Eligibility is based on results of a test given in the fall of grades 3, 4, and 5. All 5th graders, even those in AWC, must take the test to be invited to grade 6 AWC.
AWC is located in 16 elementary/K–8 schools and 9 middle schools throughout the Boston Public Schools. The A+ Saturday Academy and A+ Summer Academy support students in the AWC program.
If your child is eligible for AWC, you may choose from a combination of AWC and regular programs listed on the application. Elementary students who do not receive any of their choices may remain in the school to which they are currently assigned.
High School Programs
What’s new in Boston’s high schools? A lot! In Massachusetts, all public school students must pass the grade 10 MCAS to graduate. High schools are using a variety of strategies to help students meet this challenge—and prepare them for post-high school education and successful careers—with support from the City and our many university, business, and community partners.
Boston’s High School Renewal initiative supports the creation of small, dynamic learning environments that promote student engagement, positive relationships among adults and students, and a love of learning. During the past few years, a network of small high schools has developed, including pilot schools, Horace Mann charter schools, and the newer small schools. Boston’s high schools also include schools with small learning communities (SLCs), exam schools, and a technical vocational high school. In addition, we have special programs for older students, at-risk students, students who want to return for their diploma, students who want to go to school at night, students who are parents, and students who want to take college courses while still in high school.
Each high school offers courses in the basic subjects (English/language arts, math, science, and social studies), plus special “signature” courses and programs—during and after school—that make each school unique. You’ll find internships, community service learning, and opportunities to explore health and education careers, media, technology, visual and performing arts, environmental science, engineering, business, and other specialties.
Partners from business, community organizations, and higher education are engaged with students in their classrooms, and through internships and community service learning projects. In all of our high schools, students explore options for college and careers in real-world settings such as hospitals, banks, or TV studios. For many students, experiencing the connection between school and the “real world” is the key to academic success.
Career and Technical Training
In Career and Technical Education (CTE)—formerly called vocational education—students can learn a skill, prepare for post-secondary study, and build a career while they earn a high school diploma. All of our 20 CTE programs approved by the state under Chapter 74 are housed at Madison Park Technical Vocational High School.
CTE programs offer comprehensive academic instruction in many fields, from automotive repair to culinary arts to TV production. Job placement services are available to graduating seniors who want to work. In Madison Park’s Freshman Academy, first year students explore their interests and aptitudes and gain exposure to a variety of CTE programs.
In addition to Chapter 74 programs, the Office of Career and Technical Education oversees career programs in nine other high schools, focusing on technology, health care, finance, media, travel, and much more.
TechBoston offers rigorous technology education to prepare students for careers and post-secondary opportunities. TechBoston, available in many of our high schools, places trained students in internships with area companies. Courses include Advanced Web Design, AP Computer Science, Cisco Networking, IT Essentials, and more.
Career and Technical Education and technology programs provide special education services and support for English language learners.
Students who want a vocational program not available in the BPS may be able to enroll in a program in another district. 617-635-8079
More information on BPS high schools:
www.highschoolrenewal.org
www.techboston.org
www.bostonpublicschools.org/cte/
617-635-8079
The Examination Schools
617-635-9512
We have three “examination schools” for grades 7–12 that admit students on a competitive basis:
- Boston Latin Academy in Dorchester
- Boston Latin School in the Fenway
- John D. O’Bryant School of Mathematics & Science in Roxbury
All three schools accept new students for grades 7 and 9. O’Bryant School also accepts a few new students for grade 10.
Students are admitted to the exam schools based on results of an entrance test and grade point average. Each accounts for 50% of a student’s score. The grade point average is based on final marks in English and math from the previous school year (grade 5 or 7) and the first two marking periods of the current year.
Test registration materials for students applying for the 2008–2009 school year will be available in early September 2007 in all our middle schools and high schools, Family Resource Centers, branch libraries, and Boys & Girls Clubs.
Only students who prove that they are residents of the City of Boston will be invited to the exam schools.
The Steppingstone Foundation is a private, non-profit organization that offers tuition-free programs designed to prepare Boston schoolchildren for educational opportunities that lead to college. Steppingstone seeks to prepare motivated students in grades 4, 5, and 7 to enter and succeed at the three BPS exam schools and top independent schools. More information: 617-423-6300 or www.tsf.org.
Alternative Education
617-635-8035
The Boston Public Schools offers a variety of schools and programs for middle school and high school students experiencing difficulty in a regular school setting. These programs offer intensive support services and different approaches to learning.
We cannot guarantee that every student who requests placement in an alternative program will get one.
For more information:
www.altedbps.org
617-635-8035
Parents’ Rights Under “No Child Left Behind”
The federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act, called No Child Left Behind (NCLB), funds a number of grants. The largest of these is Title I, which aims to improve basic education for low income students. In the Boston Public Schools, all schools except Boston Latin School receive Title I funding.
Under this law, if your child goes to a Title I school, you have these and many other rights:
- The school district must inform you if your child’s school is on the Massachusetts Department of Education list of schools that have not made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for two or more years in a row. See the next column for details.
- If your child’s school is on this list, you have the right to request a transfer to another school not on the list, as long as seats are available. Regular times and rules for transfers apply.
- If your child’s school is on the list for two consecutive years, you may have access to supplemental educational services.
- At your request, the school must provide information about the qualifications of the teachers instructing your child.
- The school must inform you when your child will be taught by a teacher who is not considered “highly qualified” for longer than four consecutive weeks.
To find out more about No Child Left Behind, pick up a copy of the 2006-2007 Guide to the Boston Public Schools for Families and Students at any Family Resource Center, or read it on the BPS website.
Understanding MCAS and AYP Results
Below, you will find brief information about each of our schools.
Following each school’s “Special Features,” you will find 2006 schoolwide results for the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS). You will also find ratings for Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP).
MCAS. MCAS is given in various grades in reading, English language arts, math, science/technology and history/social science. ELA includes language, literature, and writing.
MCAS is designed to determine the performance level of students and schools in these subjects. There are four performance levels: Warning/Failure (Level 1), Needs Improvement (Level 2), Proficient (Level 3), and Advanced (Level 4).
In the following profiles, we report MCAS results for Reading, English language arts (ELA), math, and science.
- The Pass rate is the % of students scoring at Levels 2, 3 and 4.
- The AvPf (“Advanced & Proficient”) rate is the % scoring at Levels 3 and 4.
Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). No Child Left Behind requires public schools to inform parents if their child’s school fails to make Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for at least two consecutive years in English language arts (ELA), math, or both subjects.
Determining AYP is very complicated. It is calculated using combinations of the following factors:
- Rate of participation in MCAS. The target is 95% of students (total and each subgroup) taking the tests.
- Performance status. Targets are set by the state. On a 100 point scale, the target for ELA is 75.6 and for math is 60.8.
- Rate of improvement. This is calculated using MCAS scores in ELA and/or math for all grades tested. It is based on the performance of all students and eight subgroups of 20 or more students (English languages learners, students with disabilities, eligibility for free/reduced price lunch, and five racial/ethnic categories). All students’ scores who have been in the school for a full year are included. The improvement target for each school as a whole and for each subgroup is based on the group’s rate of improvement, with the goal of all children being proficient by 2014.
- One additional indicator. K–8: Rate of attendance. High schools: Percent passing both ELA and math MCAS.
- Needs Improvement – Aggregate or Subgroups
School has not made AYP for 2-3 years in a row, either as a whole (aggregate) or for one or more subgroup. After 2 years, parents may transfer their child to another school that made AYP if space is available, following the regular BPS process for transfer requests. After 3 years, students most in need may also receive free extra help (Supplemental Educational Services, or SES) to improve their MCAS scores. - Corrective Action – Aggregate or Subgroups
School has not made AYP for 4 years in a row. In addition to offering the transfer option and SES, it must make major changes, such as in staff or in the way students are taught. - Restructuring. School has not made AYP for 5 years in a row. In addition to offering the transfer option and SES, it may be put under state oversight.
In the School Profiles on pages 8-27, AYP 2006 tells if the school made adequate yearly progress from 2005 to 2006.
A “Yes” or “No” rating is given for the whole school—“Aggregate” or “Aggr”—and for the subgroups—“Sub.” If even one subgroup doesn’t make AYP, the school will receive a “No” rating for Subgroups, even if the school as a whole makes AYP.
If there is a * on the school’s MCAS or AYP 2006 line, it means not enough students were tested to receive a rating, or there were no students in the grade tested.
Some schools have additional information under the AYP 2006 line:
Does a “No” AYP rating mean that a school is a “bad school?” No: It means only that the school has not improved its MCAS scores at the rate required by the federal government to reach the goal of all students being proficient by 2014. When you are choosing schools, look at many indicators, not just test scores!
Family Involvement
617-635-9661
The Boston Public Schools recognize that a child’s education is a responsibility shared by the family, school and community. We welcome the involvement of families in their children’s education. When parents and schools work together, it increases student achievement and builds positive attitudes about school. To support strong home/school partnerships, parents, teachers and principals developed the BPS Parent/Family Involvement Policy. To receive a copy, call your school or 617-635-9661.
There are many ways you can participate in your child’s education. At home, you can read to him or her, see that homework is done, ask what he or she learned today, and limit TV time (and know what your child is watching!). At school, you can attend special events and parent/teacher conferences, volunteer in the classroom, and join the School Parent Council or the School Site Council.
There are also citywide groups for parents who speak different languages, whose children receive extra help in reading and math from Title I, and who have children with disabilities. Their phone numbers are listed on this page.
Physical Examinations
Under state law, students new to the school system must present results of a complete physical examination. During the first week of school, the school nurse will request results of a recent physical exam (within the past year) for each student, signed by a doctor or health center. No child can participate in school athletics without a recent physical and a clinician’s documentation that the student is cleared to participate in physical activity. The nurse will also review each student’s record for health issues and medication needs. If medications need to be given during school hours, the nurse will provide forms to be signed by you and the child’s clinician. Medications need to be provided to the school in a pharmacy- labeled container. Please provide as much information as possible. In addition, please give the nurse a copy of your child’s up-to-date immunization record.
School Uniforms
There is no required school uniform for all the Boston Public Schools. The School Site Council in each school decides if the school will have a mandatory uniform which all students are expected to wear, a voluntary uniform, or no uniform. Most elementary schools and many middle schools now have a uniform. For more information, call the schools directly or look at their profiles, available on the BPS website—click “Schools.”
Attendance Policy
If a student doesn’t report to school for the first five school days of the school year, or for five school days after being assigned to school, we will contact the parent or guardian. If after another three school days the student still hasn’t reported to school, or the parent hasn’t notified the school of a problem, the student will lose his or her school assignment, and we will notify the attendance officer.
Students with more than 12 unexcused absences during the school year may not be promoted to the next grade—so be sure your child goes to school every day unless he or she is ill. Good attendance is one of the most important ingredients for school success.
For more information about school policies, programs, parent and student rights, and much more, pick up a copy of the 2006-2007 Guide to the Boston Public Schools for Families & Students, available at all Family Resource Centers and on our website: www.bostonpublicschools.org/info/guide.asp.
Resources for Families
| Adult Education | 617-635-9827 |
| Adult Learning Center—Family Literacy Program | 617-635-9300 |
| After school Programs | 617-635-1578 |
| Alternative Education | 617-635-8035 |
| Attendance | 617-635-8035 |
| Boston School Committee | 617-635-9014 |
| Boston Student Advisory Council (BSAC) | 617-635-8079 ext. 104 |
| Citywide Parents Council (CPC) | 617-635-9210 |
| Communications | 617-635-9265 |
| Counseling Services | 617-635-8030 |
| Countdown to Kindergarten | 617-635-6816 |
| Curriculum and Instructional Practices | 617-635-9413 |
| Early Learning Programs (pre-kindergarten & kindergarten) | 617-635-9701 |
| English Language Learning and Support Services | 617-635-9435 |
| Enrollment Services (school assignments) | 617-635-9501 |
| Equity (discrimination issues) | 617-635-9650 |
| Family Resource Centers: East Zone North Zone West Zone | 617-635-8015 617-635-9010 617-635-8040 |
| Family and Community Engagement | 617-635-9661 |
| Food and Nutrition Services | 617-635-9144 |
| Guidance Services | 617-635-8030 |
| Health and Medical Services | 617-635-8030 |
| Homeless Students | 617-635-8037 |
| Newcomer Assessment Center | 617-635-1565 |
| Parent Hot Line (August, September, and January) | 617-635-9046 |
| Safety Services (School Police) | 617-635-8000 |
| Special Education | 617-635-8599 |
| Student Records | 617-635-9506 |
| Superintendent’s Office | 617-635-9050 |
| Title I Office | 617-635-7936 |
| Training Center for Families & Educators | 617-635-7750 |
| Transportation | 617-635-9520 |
| Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) GED, high school diploma, jobs programs Head Start | 617-357-6000 |
| BOSTnet Information about before and after school programs www.bostnet.org | 617-720-1290 |
| Boston Centers for Youth and Families (Community Centers) Youth programs, adult education, recreation, GED | 617-635-4920 |
| Boston Parent Organizing Network (BPON) Parent organizing and training for school improvement www.bpon.org | 617-373-5922 |
| Boston Partners in Education School volunteers, parent training www.bostonpartners.org | 617-451-6145 |
| Boston Plan for Excellence Publications, support for school improvement www.bpe.org | 617-227-8055 |
| Boston Public Library in Copley Square www.bpl.org | 617-536-5400 ext. 334 |
| Child Care Choices of Boston Information about licensed day care centers and providers, operating Monday-Friday, 9 AM-2 PM | 617-542-KIDS ext. 641 |
| EDCO Youth Alternative High school diploma and school to career program for qualified out-of-school youth | 617-262-9562 |
| Federation for Children with Special Needs Advocacy, information, and training www.fcsn.org | 617-482-2915 |
| Mayor’s Health Line Information on immunizations and more | 1-800-847-0710 |
| Parents’ PLACE Workshops, training, resources for families interested in getting involved in their children’s education www.pplace.org | 1-877-471-0980 |
| Steppingstone Foundation Academic preparation for the exam schools www.tsf.org | 617-423-6300 |
| TERI College Access Centers (formerly HEIC) Free information about higher education, financial aid, careers www.tericollegeaccess.org | 1-877-332-4348 |
| Allston/Brighton | |
| Allston/Brighton Head Start | 617-783-1485 |
| Charlestown | |
| JFK Family Service Center | 617-241-7017 |
| Dorchester | |
| Bradshaw Children’s Learning Program | 617-282-2327 |
| Dorchester Head Start | 617-282-1100 |
| ABCD Early Head Start (Geneva Ave.) | 617-288-5580 |
| Franklin Field Children’s Center | 617-282-0946 |
| Gertrude Townsend Head Start | 617-288-9151 |
| Lena Park Day Care * | 617-436-1900 |
| Walnut Grove Head Start | 617-445-8202 |
| Yawkey Educational Center–HMSC | 617-506-6600 |
| East Boston | |
| East Boston Head Start and Early Head Start | 617-567-8855 |
| Jamaica Plain | |
| Horizons for Homeless Children | 617-445-1480 |
| Jamaica Plain Head Start | 617-522-5533 |
| Native American Head Start | 617-232-8534 |
| Mattapan | |
| Mattapan Head Start | 617-298-1785 |
| North End | |
| North End Head Start | 617-367-0532 |
| Roslindale | |
| South Side Head Start | 617-327-1152 |
| Roxbury | |
| Paige Academy * | 617-442-5419 |
| Parker Hill/Fenway Head Start | 617-427-0464 |
| ABCD Head Start @ Lenox St./Roxbury St. | 617-541-6961 or 617-541-6935 |
| South Boston | |
| South Boston Head Start | 617-269-5160 |
| South End | |
| Chinese Church Head Start | 617-426-2855 |
| Infants and Other People * | 617-482-9464 |
| South End Head Start and Early Head Start | 617-426-2855 |
* Partnership Program
Massachusetts Department of Education
www.doe.mass.edu
1-781-338-3300
MCAS Parent Information Hotline 1-866-MCAS220
Charter School Office 1-781-338-3227
Information about public schools
open to Boston residents that
are not part of the Boston Public Schools.
Individual School Profiles
Citywide Elementary & Middle Schools
Citywide Schools at a Glance
East Zone Elementary Schools
East Zone Map
East Zone Schools at a Glance
East Zone Middle Schools
North Zone Elementary Schools
North Zone Map
North Zone Schools at a Glance
North Zone Middle Schools
West Zone Elementary Schools
West Zone Map
West Zone Schools at a Glance
West Zone Middle Schools
High Schools: Regular Admissions
High Schools at a Glance
High Schools: Special Admissions