Boston

3 Best Secondary Schools in Boston

Families comparing secondary schools in Boston can start with the type of learning environment their student needs, from mathematics and science to visual arts, performing arts, or STEAM projects. Before arranging a visit, check admissions requirements, grade levels, transportation, and whether the school offers the academic or creative pathway your student wants.

Public-school status and program availability are also worth confirming directly.

How this guide is ordered

The ordering gives weight to each school's educational focus, the needs it appears best suited to support, and practical details families should confirm before visiting or applying. Special attention goes to arts, mathematics, science, and public-school pathways. Some eligible businesses may purchase enhanced visibility, which can influence their placement.

Quick view

Three leading middle and high schools in Boston

Open each listing to see services, location, and contact details.

John D. O'Bryant School of Mathematics and Science

4.560 reviews

Boston Arts Academy

4.358 reviews

Students focused on visual or performing artsYoung artists interested in STEAM projects

The Boston Central Adult High School

3.710 reviews

Ranking

Compare 3 secondary schools in Boston

John D. O'Bryant School of Mathematics and Science

4.560 reviews

55 Malcolm X Blvd, Roxbury, MA 02120, United States

The John D. O'Bryant School of Mathematics and Science is a Boston secondary school built around rigorous academic study and a strong mathematics and science identity. Its stated educational model describes a diverse, supportive community of learners, with opportunities that connect classroom learning to broader intellectual and professional interests.

Beyond the core curriculum, students can take part in more than 25 athletics teams and extracurricular activities. STEM exploration, school announcements, graduation programming, and summer opportunities form part of the wider school community. The result is an academically focused setting suited to students looking for a demanding secondary-school experience with additional avenues for leadership, activities, and exploration.

Boston Arts Academy

4.358 reviews

Arts Academy, 174 Ipswich St, Boston, MA 02215, United States

Best for

Students focused on visual or performing artsYoung artists interested in STEAM projects

Boston Arts Academy is a Boston public high school dedicated to visual and performing arts, with an academic program designed for students who want to develop as both artists and scholars. Admission places emphasis on artistic inclination and skills rather than academic, behavioral, or learning history, creating an entry point for young people with creative ambition at different stages.

Its curriculum extends beyond arts disciplines through STEAM learning, linking science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The STEAM Lab includes tools such as 3-D printers, laser cutters, soft circuitry, and electronics for hands-on projects. With partnerships, a dedicated arts setting, and opportunities to build an individual creative voice, the academy suits students seeking an intensive arts-centered education.

TBoston

The Boston Central Adult High School

3.710 reviews

55 Malcolm X Blvd, Boston, MA 02120, United States

The Boston Central Adult High School is an adult education school in Boston serving learners who are continuing their education in a public-school setting. Its role connects with broader Boston Public Schools resources, including specialized services and postsecondary transition support.

The transition center helps students navigate college enrollment, financial aid, career exploration, and workforce opportunities by bringing together coordinated support. For students with individualized education needs, Extended School Year services may be available when determined through the appropriate planning process.

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Map and areas

Map of secondary schools in Boston

Schools in this Boston guide cover different educational profiles rather than one single neighborhood pattern. Options include mathematics and science, visual and performing arts, international education, adult education, and broader high-school programs.

Use the map to compare travel time from home, work, or a student's current school. A convenient location matters, but it should be balanced with the program's admissions process, grade range, and daily schedule.

School pathways to compare

Mathematics and scienceExplore a secondary-school option centered on mathematics and science for students seeking a strongly focused academic environment.
Visual and performing artsCompare arts-focused education for students interested in developing visual-art or performing-art interests during high school.
STEAM projectsLook for programs suited to young artists who want to connect creative work with science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
Public arts high schoolFamilies seeking a public arts high school can compare this pathway with other Boston secondary-school options.
International educationInclude international high-school programming when language, global studies, or a more internationally oriented setting matters to your family.
Adult high-school educationAdult learners can consider a dedicated high-school education option rather than a traditional student pathway.

How to choose a Boston secondary school

Confirm the student's eligible grade levels and admissions route.
Ask whether arts, mathematics, science, or STEAM programs are full-time or supplemental.
Check public-school eligibility and any residency or application requirements.
Request details about daily schedules, transportation, and campus visits.
Compare the school's learning environment with the student's academic and creative goals.

Frequently asked questions

Which Boston secondary schools suit students interested in arts?

Boston Arts Academy is the clearest fit for students focused on visual or performing arts. It may also suit young artists interested in STEAM projects or families seeking a public arts high school.

Ask about the current arts disciplines, audition or portfolio requirements, grade availability, and the balance between creative study and core academics.

Are there mathematics and science-focused secondary schools in Boston?

The John D. O'Bryant School of Mathematics and Science is a relevant option for families prioritizing those subjects.

Its focused academic profile makes it worth comparing with broader high-school programs. Confirm eligibility, admissions steps, course expectations, transportation, and whether the program matches the student's preferred level of challenge.

What should families confirm before visiting a school?

Confirm the campus location, visiting arrangements, grade levels served, admissions requirements, and whether the desired program is currently available. It is also useful to ask about schedules, transportation, and application deadlines.

These details can prevent an unnecessary trip and help families compare schools on practical as well as educational fit.

Can adult learners find a high-school option in Boston?

The Boston Central Adult High School provides a distinct pathway for adult education. It should be compared separately from conventional secondary schools because enrollment requirements, schedules, and student services may differ.

Contact the school before planning a visit to confirm eligibility, documentation, class times, and the route to completing the desired credential.