Birches School
General Information
About Birches School
Birches School is an independent, co-educational institution located in Lincoln, Massachusetts, serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade. Established in 2012, the school was founded with the vision of integrating nature-based learning into a rigorous academic curriculum. The school’s mission emphasizes fostering curiosity, creativity, and empathy in students, while promoting a deep connection with the natural world.
Birches School offers a unique educational experience through multi-age classrooms and interdisciplinary, thematic units that encourage inquiry-based learning. The campus, situated on a 16-acre property shared with the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust, provides students with ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and environmental stewardship. Over the years, Birches has grown into a vibrant learning community, accredited by the Association of Independent Schools in New England (AISNE), and continues to uphold its commitment to nurturing well-rounded, compassionate individuals.
Contact Information
Address:
100 Bedford Road
Lincoln, MA 01773
Phone Number: (781) 259-8100
Email Address: admissions@birchesschool.org
School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2012 |
| School Type | Independent, Co-educational |
| Grades Offered | Pre-K – 8 |
| Accreditation | AISNE |
| Campus Size | 16-acre property |
| Student Enrollment (2024) | Approximately 100 students |
| Head of School | Serena Wilkie Gifford |
Birches School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Best Private Elementary Schools in Massachusetts | Top 10% |
| Best Private Middle Schools in Massachusetts | Top 15% |
Birches School Academics
Birches School Faculties / Departments
- Early Childhood Education (Pre-K – Kindergarten)
- Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3)
- Upper Elementary (Grades 4–5)
- Middle School (Grades 6–8)
- Spanish Language Department
- Visual Arts Department
- Music Department
- Wellness and Mindfulness Department
- Science and Environmental Studies Department
Birches School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Nature-Based Science
- Integrated Humanities
- Spanish Language and Culture
- Visual Arts and Design
- Music and Performing Arts
- Physical Education and Wellness
- Mindfulness and Social-Emotional Learning
- Environmental Stewardship Projects
Online Learning
While Birches School emphasizes hands-on, nature-based learning, it has developed supplementary online resources to support students’ learning experiences. These resources include virtual field trips, interactive environmental studies modules, and digital art showcases, ensuring that students have access to diverse learning materials that complement their outdoor education.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not applicable |
| ACT | Not applicable |
| Standardized Assessments | Varies by grade level |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Birches School boasts a high retention rate, with most students continuing their education within the school through 8th grade. Graduates are well-prepared for high school, demonstrating strong academic skills, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to community involvement.
Birches School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As an independent school, Birches School does not have a standardized GPA requirement. Admissions are based on a holistic review of applicants, including academic performance, teacher recommendations, and alignment with the school’s values. Standardized test scores are not a primary factor in the admissions process.
Birches School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| General Admission | Selective |
| Specialized Programs | Competitive |
Birches School Application Requirements
Prospective families are required to submit an online application form, recent academic records, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Additionally, applicants may be invited for an interview to assess their fit with the school’s community and educational philosophy.
Application Process
- Complete the online application form
- Submit recent academic records and teacher recommendations
- Provide a personal statement
- Attend an interview (if applicable)
- Await admission decision
Birches School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | January 15 |
| Interview Period | February |
| Admission Decisions Released | March 1 |
| Enrollment Confirmation Due | April 1 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are typically asked to write an essay or personal statement addressing their interests, experiences, and reasons for seeking admission to Birches School. This provides insight into the applicant’s character and alignment with the school’s values.
Birches School Scholarships
Birches School offers need-based financial aid to families demonstrating financial need. The school is committed to making its educational opportunities accessible to a diverse range of students.
Birches School Tuition and Fees
| Grade Level | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|
| Pre-K | $31,440 |
| Grades 1-3 | $32,120 |
| Grades 4-5 | $32,600 |
| Grades 6-8 | $33,400 |
Note: Additional fees may apply for extracurricular activities, field trips, and materials.
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 50% |
| Male | 50% |
| Age Range | 4–14 |
| Ethnic Diversity | Diverse |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Birches School is committed to inclusivity and provides accommodations for students with disabilities. The school also offers financial aid to support low-income families, ensuring that all students have access to its programs.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~100 |
| International Students | 0 |
| Students with Disabilities | Varies |
School Diversity
Birches School fosters an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. The student body represents a range of cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The school’s commitment to diversity is reflected in its curriculum, which incorporates global perspectives and promotes understanding and respect among students.
Average Earnings
While specific data on alumni earnings is not publicly available, Birches School’s emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence equips graduates with skills that are valuable in various professional fields. Alumni often pursue higher education and careers that align with their passions and values.
Birches School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Birches School comprises experienced educators who are passionate about nature-based learning and student development. Teachers hold advanced degrees in their respective fields and are dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at Birches School are recognized for their expertise in integrating nature into the curriculum. They engage in continuous professional development to stay abreast of educational best practices and to enhance their teaching methodologies.
Birches School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Birches School operates as a day school and does not offer on-campus housing. The campus features classrooms designed for interactive learning, art studios, music rooms, and outdoor spaces that facilitate environmental education and recreation.
Transportation
Students commute to Birches School via private transportation arranged by families. The school is located in a suburban area with access to public transportation options for families residing in nearby communities. On-campus mobility is facilitated by well-maintained pathways and designated drop-off zones.