Public Schools of Brookline
Public Schools of Brookline (PSB)
Introduction
The Public Schools of Brookline (PSB) is a distinguished school district located in Brookline, Massachusetts, a suburban town bordering the city of Boston. Renowned for academic rigor, equity-driven practices, and cultural inclusivity, PSB serves a diverse community of learners and stands as one of the most respected public school systems in the state and across the nation.
From pre-kindergarten through high school graduation, students in the Brookline district experience a curriculum grounded in inquiry, collaboration, and respect for individual identity and voice. With a strong tradition of progressive education, PSB continually adapts to modern pedagogical approaches while staying rooted in its commitment to public service and civic responsibility.
1. Overview of the School District: Public Schools of Brookline
The Public Schools of Brookline operate under the guidance of a School Committee, a Superintendent, and various instructional and administrative departments that oversee operations across all grade levels.
Key Features:
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Serves over 7,000 students
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Encompasses eight K–8 elementary schools, one early education center, and one high school
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Emphasis on equity, social-emotional learning, and personalized instruction
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Integrated support services and special education programs
The district values transparency, family engagement, and lifelong learning as core components of student success.
2. Schools in the District: Public Schools of Brookline
Elementary and K–8 Schools:
Each of Brookline’s K–8 schools offers a full spectrum of academic and enrichment experiences:
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Baker School
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Coolidge Corner School
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Driscoll School
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Heath School
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Lawrence School
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Lincoln School
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Pierce School
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Runkle School
All elementary schools follow the same high academic standards while incorporating local initiatives and neighborhood strengths.
High School:
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Brookline High School (BHS): A comprehensive, four-year public high school that serves approximately 2,000 students. BHS is celebrated for its academic excellence, extensive electives, world-class performing arts, and inclusive extracurricular offerings.
Early Education: Public Schools of Brookline
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Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP): Offers high-quality pre-kindergarten instruction focused on play-based learning, social-emotional growth, and early literacy and numeracy.
3. Academic Programs
Curriculum and Instruction
PSB provides a rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum across all subjects, from early childhood through high school. The instructional approach emphasizes:
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Project-based learning
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Differentiated instruction
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Critical thinking and inquiry
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Real-world application of knowledge
Core Subjects: Public Schools of Brookline
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Mathematics: From foundational math through advanced courses such as Calculus
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Science: Emphasis on hands-on learning in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science
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World Languages: Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, and others, depending on school and grade
Arts and Enrichment
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Music: Instrumental and vocal programs begin in elementary school
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Visual Arts: Studio art, digital art, and art history integrated throughout all grade levels
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Performing Arts: Theater, dance, and performance opportunities available, especially at BHS
4. Special Education and Support Services
PSB is deeply committed to providing inclusive and equitable education for all students, including those with disabilities or special needs.
Special Education Programs:
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Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
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Integrated co-teaching models
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Occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, and physical therapy
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In-district specialized programs for students with autism, emotional impairments, and learning disabilities
English Learner Education (ELE)
With a diverse student population, PSB supports students who are learning English through structured immersion programs, ESL instruction, and family engagement services.
Guidance and Mental Health Services
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Full-time school counselors at every school
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School psychologists and social workers available
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Proactive wellness and mental health programming
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Social-emotional learning (SEL) woven into curriculum
5. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Public Schools of Brookline
Brookline takes pride in its diverse community, where over 75 languages are spoken and students come from various racial, ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
DEI Commitments: Public Schools of Brookline
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Anti-racist curriculum development
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Equity-centered professional development for staff
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Racial Equity Advancement Leadership (REAL) teams
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Student affinity groups and multicultural clubs
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Annual community forums and town halls on equity and inclusion
The district also works to address achievement and opportunity gaps, ensuring all students thrive academically and socially.
6. Technology and Innovation
PSB integrates modern technology to enhance learning, with a focus on digital citizenship and responsible use.
Highlights:
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1:1 Chromebook program for students in upper grades
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Use of learning platforms like Google Classroom
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Interactive whiteboards and smart technology in classrooms
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Coding and computer science offerings starting in elementary school
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Access to digital tools for research, creativity, and collaboration
7. Brookline High School (BHS): A Closer Look
Brookline High School is a national model for excellence in comprehensive education.
Key Attributes: Public Schools of Brookline
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Over 300 courses, including AP, honors, and college-level options
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Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs
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Special programs such as African American and Latino Scholars, Opportunity for Change, and School-Within-a-School
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Robust theater and performing arts department
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Competitive athletics and over 100 clubs and organizations
BHS supports all postsecondary pathways, from four-year college to technical careers, with personalized guidance and robust college counseling.
8. Athletics and Extracurricular Activities
Athletics and extracurricular activities are vital to the PSB student experience.
Sports:
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Seasonal sports teams in soccer, basketball, tennis, track, cross-country, baseball/softball, lacrosse, swimming, and more
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Strong athletic tradition at Brookline High School
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Emphasis on teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship
Clubs and Activities:
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Debate, robotics, Model UN, art club, sustainability groups
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Student government, publications, and broadcast media
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Cultural and language clubs
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Community service and civic engagement groups
9. Family and Community Engagement: Public Schools of Brookline
PSB maintains a strong partnership with families and the community.
Engagement Strategies:
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School Councils with family representation
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Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs)
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Regular family workshops and informational nights
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Translation and interpretation services for non-English-speaking families
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Annual multicultural events, music nights, and school celebrations
Community input is regularly sought in matters of curriculum, budgeting, and district priorities.
10. Professional Development and Educator Excellence
Teachers participate in ongoing professional development in:
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Culturally responsive teaching
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Inclusive practices
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Curriculum innovation
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Social-emotional learning
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STEM integration
Many educators hold advanced degrees and contribute to state and national education leadership efforts.
11. Facilities and Capital Projects: Public Schools of Brookline
In recent years, the district has made major investments in school infrastructure.
Notable Projects:
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Renovation and expansion of Brookline High School
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Construction of a new Driscoll School facility
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Energy-efficient upgrades and improved accessibility in school buildings
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Expanded outdoor learning spaces and athletic facilities
These investments ensure that learning environments remain modern, safe, and conducive to 21st-century education.
12. Budget and Governance: Public Schools of Brookline
The School Committee collaborates with the Town of Brookline to ensure the district is funded in a way that meets student needs while maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility.
Budget Priorities:
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Class size reduction
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Equity and support services
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Curriculum development
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Technology integration
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Competitive salaries to attract and retain top talent
13. Postsecondary Outcomes: Public Schools of Brookline
Brookline students are exceptionally well-prepared for college and careers.
Statistics:
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High graduation rate (>95%)
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Strong college matriculation, including Ivy League and top-tier schools
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Alumni success in arts, sciences, law, medicine, business, and public service
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Life-ready skills instilled through critical thinking, collaboration, and empathy
14. Challenges and Future Vision: Public Schools of Brookline
Like many high-performing districts, PSB also faces challenges:
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Managing enrollment growth
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Addressing mental health needs
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Closing opportunity and achievement gaps
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Ensuring equitable access to advanced coursework
Strategic Priorities Moving Forward:
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Strengthen inclusive practices
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Deepen equity and anti-racism work
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Improve special education services
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Expand career and technical education
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Invest in teacher training and instructional excellence
The district continues to engage all stakeholders to build a sustainable, innovative future for Brookline’s children.
Conclusion
The Public Schools of Brookline stand out as a model of academic excellence, diversity, and progressive values. With a strong foundation in public education and a commitment to the whole child, PSB prepares students to be thoughtful citizens, creative thinkers, and lifelong learners.
Families seeking a rigorous, inclusive, and student-focused public school experience will find the Public Schools of Brookline to be a nurturing and empowering environment where every child can thrive.
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