Boston, a city known for its rich history and educational excellence, boasts some of the finest boarding high schools in the nation.
These institutions offer a blend of rigorous academics, diverse extracurricular activities, and a nurturing environment that prepares students for future success.
For parents and students seeking the best educational opportunities, understanding what each school offers can be a game-changer.
This article explores the 13 best boarding high schools in Boston, highlighting their unique features and why they stand out in a crowded field.
Top 13 Best Boarding High Schools in Boston
Boston is home to several prestigious boarding high schools that provide excellent academic programs, extracurricular activities, and unique educational experiences.
Here’s a look at the Top 13 Best Boarding High Schools in Boston:
1. Phillips Academy Andover
Phillips Academy Andover stands out as the best private high school in Massachusetts. Boasting a grade of A+ overall, the school excels in academics, diversity, and extracurricular activities. With a student-teacher ratio of 5:1, personalized attention ensures students’ success.
Academics at Phillips Academy Andover are top-tier, offering a robust college prep program. The school’s diversity grade of A highlights its inclusive community. Extracurricular options are abundant, ranging from clubs to sports, catering to varied interests.
Located at 180 Main St, Andover, MA, Phillips Academy Andover welcomes prospective families to explore its offerings through virtual tours and the school’s website, Andover.edu.
With a strong rating of 4.53 out of 5 from 209 reviews, it’s clear why this institution leads the pack.
2. Groton School
Groton School in Groton, MA, offers an outstanding boarding experience with a strong blend of rigorous academics and character education, earning an A+ overall grade on Niche.
Catering to grades 8-12 and affiliated with the Episcopal Church, Groton emphasizes values and ethics. The school excels in academics, embraces diversity with an A grade, and provides extensive extracurricular activities.
Its sports programs receive an A- grade, reflecting well-rounded athletic opportunities. For more information or to take a virtual tour, visit groton.org.
The school is located at 282 Farmers Row, Groton, MA. Milton Academy, in Milton, MA, is another top choice. Known for its rigorous curriculum and exceptional arts programs, Milton has an A+ rating for academics and clubs.
The campus spans 125 acres, providing ample space for a wide range of athletic activities. Visit milton.edu to learn more or schedule a visit. Located at 170 Centre Street, Milton, MA.
3. Noble and Greenough School
Noble and Greenough School, situated in Dedham, MA, ranks #4 among the Best Private High Schools in Massachusetts.
The institute holds an A+ overall Niche Grade, reflecting excellence across several key areas. Serving grades 7-12, this prestigious private boarding school offers a robust academic curriculum, ensuring students are well-prepared for college.
Boasting an A+ in Academics, Nobles excels in subjects ranging from the humanities to the sciences.
The school prides itself on a diverse community, earning an A- in Diversity. Students can engage in a variety of clubs, activities, and strong athletic programs, rated A. Prospective families can explore more through virtual tours or by visiting nobles.edu.
4. St. Mark’s School
St. Mark’s School is a prestigious boarding school located in Southborough, MA. Known for its commitment to excellence, it ranks #1 in Best Private High Schools in Worcester County.
With an overall grade of A+ from Niche, the school offers a superior academic environment supported by a low student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
The school serves 377 students across grades 9-12, with a strong college preparatory program. Remarkably, 97% of graduates go on to attend four-year colleges.
Tuition is $72,930 annually for the highest grade offered. St. Mark’s provides a well-rounded educational experience with notable achievements in academics, diversity, and extracurricular activities. For further details, visit their website at stmarksschool.org.
5. Middlesex School
Middlesex School in Concord, MA, ranks #7 among the Best Private High Schools in Massachusetts, receiving an A+ overall grade on Niche.
Catering to grades 9-12, it excels in academics, diversity, and extracurricular activities, offering a rigorous college prep program and a supportive environment fostered by a diverse faculty.
The school’s challenging curriculum and committed teachers contribute to high college matriculation rates.
Students enjoy a vivid campus life with ample clubs, arts, and athletic opportunities. For more information, visit mxschool.edu or call (978) 371-6524.
6. Concord Academy
Concord Academy, located in Concord, MA, ranks #9 among the Best Private High Schools in Massachusetts. With an overall Niche grade of A+, the school excels in academics and diversity.
Serving grades 9-12, Concord Academy offers a robust college prep program that ensures students are well-prepared for higher education.
With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and support, Concord Academy features a vast community reflected in its A grade for diversity.
The school also provides a variety of clubs and activities, promoting student engagement and leadership skills.
Concord Academy’s dedicated faculty fosters a nurturing environment, as indicated by its A+ rating for teacher quality. For those interested in learning more, visit concordacademy.org or call (978) 402-2250.
7. Milton Academy
Milton Academy, situated in Milton, MA, stands out as the #1 Best Private K-12 School in Massachusetts. It boasts an overall grade of A+ on Niche.
The school serves grades K-12, offering both day and boarding options. It excels in academics with a rigorous curriculum, reflected in its A+ grade. The institution prides itself on a diverse community, earning an A in Diversity.
Students at Milton Academy benefit from highly qualified teachers, who have been rated A- for their dedication and expertise.
The school’s college preparatory program is top-notch, guiding students to prestigious universities. For more details, families can visit milton.edu or call (617) 898-2227.
8. Belmont Hill School
Belmont Hill School ranks #1 among the Best All-Boys High Schools in Massachusetts. This private boarding school serves grades 7-12 and has an overall Niche grade of A+.
Known for its excellent academics and strong college prep program, the school has received a 4.79 out of 5 rating from 34 reviews.
The faculty is highly rated, contributing to an engaging learning environment. Belmont Hill also offers a diverse array of clubs and activities, ensuring a well-rounded student experience.
With its prime location in Belmont, MA, interested parties can explore further by visiting belmonthill.org or calling (617) 484-4410.
9. Brooks School
Brooks School ranks #2 in Best Private High Schools in Essex County with an overall A+ grade. Located in North Andover, MA, it serves grades 9-12 and offers boarding options.
Brooks excels in academics, diversity, and college prep, providing a supportive environment for student success.
Its signature program, Students on the Forefront, enables students to gain hands-on professional experience in various fields.
The school has a comprehensive range of clubs and activities and strong sports programs. With highly-rated teachers and a diverse community, Brooks ensures a well-rounded education. For more information, visit brooksschool.org or call (978) 725-6272.
10. The Governor’s Academy
The Governor’s Academy is a top-ranked boarding high school located in Byfield, MA, just 33 miles north of Boston.
It holds an impressive overall grade of A+ on Niche, making it #3 in Best Private High Schools in Essex County. The school serves students in grades 9-12 and boasts a rich academic curriculum alongside a strong college preparatory program.
The school’s monthly updates highlight its various campus activities, with a Fall Open House scheduled for October 5.
Prospective families can meet faculty, chat with coaches and directors, and tour the Alfond Coastal Research Center.
Known for its high-quality teaching (grade A), The Governor’s Academy ensures a comprehensive educational experience with diverse clubs and competitive sports. For more details, visit thegovernorsacademy.org or call (978) 465-1763.
11. Lawrence Academy
Lawrence Academy, located in Groton, MA, ranks #26 among the Best Private High Schools in Massachusetts.
It holds an impressive overall Niche grade of A+. Established for grades 9-12, Lawrence Academy offers a comprehensive boarding experience with a strong academic curriculum.
The school excels in academics, diversity, and college preparatory programs, maintaining high standards across all categories.
With an average rating of 4.78 out of 5 from 58 reviews, Lawrence Academy garners praise for its dedicated faculty and inclusive community.
The school fosters a diverse environment, earning an A- grade in Diversity. Families can take a virtual tour or visit lacademy.edu for more information. Interested applicants can start the admission process by calling (978) 448-1530.
12. Dana Hall School
Dana Hall School, located in Wellesley, MA, caters to girls in grades 5-12, providing both day and boarding options.
Renowned for its rigorous academics and supportive community, the school holds an impressive overall grade of A+ on Niche.
Dana Hall excels in a variety of areas: the school has an A+ in College Prep and Teachers, an A in Clubs & Activities, and an A minus in Diversity.
Students benefit from a wide array of extracurricular activities and strong athletic programs, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
For prospective families interested in exploring Dana Hall, a virtual tour is available, and more information can be found on their website, danahall.org, or by calling (781) 235-3010.
13. The Cambridge School of Weston
Nestled in Weston, MA, The Cambridge School of Weston (CSW) stands out with its focus on the arts and strong academic programs.
Ranked #3 in Best High Schools for the Arts in Massachusetts, CSW earns an impressive A+ overall grade.
The school offers private, boarding options for grades 9-12 and supports a diverse student body reflected in its A grade for diversity.
The faculty at CSW receives high praise, contributing to an engaging educational experience. While its academic programs are exemplary, CSW also boasts a vivid extracurricular life, earning an A- in clubs and activities. Prospective families can take a virtual tour or visit csw.org for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about boarding high schools in Boston?
Boston’s boarding high schools are renowned for their strong academic programs, diverse extracurricular options, and supportive environments, helping students thrive.
Which is considered the best private high school in Massachusetts?
Phillips Academy Andover is often recognized as the best private high school in Massachusetts.
What grades does Groton School serve?
Groton School serves students in grades 8-12.
What distinguishes Noble and Greenough School?
Noble and Greenough School is known for its robust academic curriculum, diverse student body, and strong athletic programs.
What is the student-teacher ratio at St. Mark’s School?
St. Mark’s School offers a low student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
What makes Concord Academy unique?
Concord Academy emphasizes inclusivity and support within its rich community, with strong academics and diverse extracurricular activities.
What is the overall grade of Milton Academy on Niche?
Milton Academy holds an overall grade of A+ on Niche.
Conclusion
Each of these 13 boarding high schools in Boston provides unique strengths, from rigorous academics to diverse extracurricular activities.
Their emphasis on personal growth, inclusivity, and college preparation places them among the best in the nation.
Prospective families should consider virtual tours and school websites to gain a deeper understanding of each institution’s offerings.
Contacting admissions offices for detailed inquiries can further assist in making an informed decision.
Additionally, attending open house events and speaking with current students and alumni can provide valuable firsthand insights.
By thoroughly researching these top-tier schools, families can find the best fit for their educational goals.
Natalie Kurtzman