A Community Vision for Boston’s Students and FamiliesChapter 6: High Schools: Building A Foundation for Life

Chapter Summary

High school is an essential stepping stone for young people preparing for an enriching career and fulfilling life. We must ensure that all BPS high schools see young people for who they are, give them a voice in their own education, and guarantee safety and security for all communities of learners.

High schools must provide space for students to engage in rich and courageous conversations, develop critical thinking skills, pursue their passions, and develop academic skills that prepare students for a lifetime of learning. But Boston’s ability to offer these types of learning environments to all students is particularly limited at the high school level. We need a new approach to district organization and an expanded investment in the particular needs of adolescents to give every high schooler an educational experience fitting of a world-class city. 

• District organization and equity with a unified enrollment process, more options for mid-year enrollment, and an equitable distribution of intensive and specialized programs to integrate student needs with school offerings.

• High quality at every high school through a district-wide approach, streamlined graduation requirements, more access to and support for advanced coursework and dual enrollment programs, and later start times to align with public health guidance and educational best practices.

• Support for the transition to adulthood by preparing students and families for higher education, teaching life skills, and connecting students with paid internships and jobs.