WPS is delighted to build a community innovation partnership with Boston Public Schools. Together, we will design a vision for a universal 7th and 8th grade experience for BPS students, starting with a pilot at Charlestown High School this fall. In addition to co-design and ongoing implementation support, WPS will provide the district with an innovation grant, made possible by the Morningside Foundation. Funding will support collaboration, such as professional learning and planning stipends for teachers, and further strengthening community partnerships.
In her 2025 State of the City address, Mayor Michelle Wu remarked, "Putting our students first means investing in the partnerships that prepare them to succeed...This year, we’ll also be partnering with the WPS Institute to make sure 7th and 8th graders are prepared to make the most out of high school; we’re working with Bain to strengthen early college pathways; and we’re joining employers to triple the size of the co-op program at Madison Park so students can earn credentials and a paycheck at the same time. We are connecting our young people to an excellent and expansive education: rigorous academics, summer learning and jobs, after-school enrichment, student athletics, and access to the arts."
Co-Creating Learning at Charlestown High School
Charlestown High School is home to a diverse population of 754 students in grades 7-12. All students join a two-year small learning community (SLC), where they receive support from a dedicated team of Charlestown staff. Our innovation partnership will serve the 61 students in Dream Academy, Charlestown's SLC for middle grades. This cohort represents the city of Boston, with 18 students residing in Charlestown and 41 students hailing from 12 additional zip codes.
Want to learn more? Visit our webpage to learn about WPS's community innovation offerings.
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The WPS Institute creates innovative programs and partnerships to transform learning. We advance models of schooling where learning thrives everywhere, in classrooms and beyond; where students and their families are empowered to shape their own educational journeys; and where entire communities contribute to the development of young people.
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