Education

Transforming public high schools in New England to propel excellence and equity for students.

A teacher wearing glasses and a purple Holyoke sweatshirt looks over the shoulder of a student who is explaining something on his computer. They are in a school library with other students nearby.
Holyoke High School

We envision public high schools across New England providing relevant and rigorous learning experiences aligned with student supports

We focus on high schools because they play a critical role in young people’s lives. And we center our work on two aspirations: excellence and equity. 

School transformation takes many forms across many types of schools. Yet, all share a deep commitment to high expectations for all students; trusting relationships with peers and adults; rigorous and relevant learning experiences full of joy and purpose; personalized supports; and abundant opportunities for students to discover their gifts and passions. This is excellence and equity. It’s what enables all students to thrive and graduate ready to choose and pursue fulfilling paths for their future.

Three female high school graduates smile and embrace wearing green caps and gowns.

Catalyze New Models

Strategy

Partnering with school and system leaders, as they envision and create the learning experiences their young people deserve.

A Big Leap for Quality in Early Education

Blog Post

An interview between Stefan Lanfer, Barr's Knowledge Officer and Amy O'Leary, Director of the Early Education for All Campaign and mav Pardee, Program Manager of the Children's Investment Fund.

  • Education

Learn more about Catalyzing New Models

A group of teachers sitting at a table covered with papers and laptops. The teachers are talking and smiling.

Invest in Educators

Strategy

Supporting a diverse, skilled community of professionals bringing real change to classrooms, schools, and school systems.

School Facts Adult Speaking Classroom

The Critical Role of Teacher Leaders

Blog Post
Kate Dobin

New research offers framework to understand the many forms teacher leadership takes, and insights into the opportunities for educators in Massachusetts.

  • Education
  • Invest in Educators
A masked speaker speaking to a room full of people at a spring convening.

How School Leaders Prioritize Equity, Achievement, and Wellness - Even in Challenging Times

Blog Post
Photo of Dr. Ben Klompus; managing director at Relay Graduate School of Education Ben Klompus

While the last two years have been challenging for all, some leaders have redoubled their focus on equity, achievement, and wellness in their classrooms. In a new series, Relay follows exceptional leaders from across the country to document and share their effective leadership strategies.

  • Education
  • Invest in Educators

Learn more about our strategy to invest in Educators

A group of high school students sit on a panel, one is holding a microphone and speaking.

Build Public Will

Strategy

Elevating the voices of students, parents, and educators to raise awareness and shape new possibilities.

Kate Dobin

Six Questions with Barr's New Education Senior Program Officer

Blog Post
Kate Dobin

Getting to know Kate Dobin who leads Barr’s Boston K-12 strategy for Education.

  • Education

New Report Raises Stakes for Education in Massachusetts

Blog Post

A new project from the Rennie Center for Education Research & Policy sets out to provide an annual review of student progress and proficiency to inform education leaders and policy makers about what we are doing well and where we need to improve.

  • Education
Two men carrying a solar panel during a roof installation

New Englanders Welcome the Clean Energy Transition

Blog Post
Kathryn Wright

Recent focus groups underscore widespread enthusiasm for clean energy and urgency for electrification in New England

  • Climate
  • Clean Energy