School Board President identifies top 35 high schools for new school model

In a recent meeting of the Newton School Committee, a poignant discussion unfolded around the future of education in the district, particularly in light of a new high school being planned. The school board president shared a reflective moment, asking himself what defines an outstanding high school. With no satisfactory answers from others, he took the initiative to compile his own list of exemplary institutions—those that have produced 20 or more National Merit Scholar finalists.

This list, which includes 35 public schools, highlights institutions where senior classes range from 100 to 1,200 students, with college acceptance rates soaring from 30% to nearly 100%. The principals of these schools attribute their success to various factors, including the educational level of their communities and the quality of their teachers. However, a common theme emerged: the importance of hard work. Many of these schools emphasize rigorous academic standards, frequent testing, and substantial homework, alongside a commitment to maintaining well-resourced libraries.

The conversation took a reflective turn as the president noted that while some names on his list, such as New Trier and Bronx Science, are well-known, Newton no longer holds a place among them. He expressed concern about whether Newton would even rank among the top 35 schools in the state today. The landscape of education has evolved since 1957, with the needs of students becoming more complex and challenging.

Yet, amidst these challenges, the president highlighted what makes Newton unique: its diverse student body. The district caters to every type of learner, from academic geniuses to aspiring artists, star athletes, and those facing learning or emotional challenges. This diversity, he argued, positions Newton schools as potential models for the nation, capable of adapting to the varied needs of its students.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were left contemplating the path forward for Newton's educational landscape, with a renewed focus on hard work and inclusivity as guiding principles for the future.