Boston International High School
General Information – Boston International High School
Overview
Boston International High School is a public high school serving students in grades 9 through 12 in the Boston metropolitan area. Focused on providing a rigorous, inclusive, and globally minded education, the school supports a highly diverse student body of recent immigrants and English language learners. Through a combination of academic challenge, social-emotional support, and practical skills development, Boston International High School prepares its students not only for graduation, but also for higher education or immediate entry into the workforce.
Teachers and staff emphasize individualized learning plans, tailored to each student’s language proficiency, prior schooling background, and academic goals. The school fosters strong community partnerships, enabling students to access mentoring, internships, and college advising services. Enrichment opportunities – such as after-school clubs, college-prep workshops, and peer support groups – help students build confidence, cross-cultural competence, and the critical thinking habits they will need after high school.
Contact Information
Address: 205 Sumner Street, East Boston, MA, United States
Phone Number: (617) 635-8768 (for Boston Public Schools high school division)
Email Address: boston_intl_high@bostonpublicschools.org
School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | Mid-2000s (as part of Boston Public Schools’ international high school initiative) |
| School Type | Public high school (Boston Public Schools) |
| Grades Served | 9-12 |
| Enrollment | Approximately 250–300 students (varies by year) |
| Principal / Head | (Varies; data not publicly consistent) |
| Motto | “Empowering Global Futures” (approximate, based on mission) |
| Demographic Focus | Immigrant students, English Language Learners (ELL) |
Boston International High School Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position / Rating |
|---|---|
| State (Massachusetts) Public High School Ranking | Not ranked among top exam schools; recognized for strong ELL support programs |
| National High School Performance / Recognition | Not widely featured in national college-prep rankings, but valued for its mission-driven work with immigrant and newcomer students |
Boston International High School Academics
Boston International High School Faculties / Departments
- English Language & Literature / ELL Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Social Studies Department (History, Geography, Civics)
- World Languages Department
- Career & Technical Education (CTE) / Vocational Studies
- Counseling & Guidance Department
- Special Education Department
- Art & Music Department
- Physical Education Department
Boston International High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- English Language Development (ELD) / Sheltered English
- Standard English Literature & Composition
- Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
- Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- U.S. History, World History, Economics, Government
- Spanish and other language courses (depending on student background)
- Career & Technical Education Pathways (e.g., business, IT, health)
- College Preparatory Seminars
- Work-Based Learning / Internship Program
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses (if offered, vary by year)
- Electives in Art, Music, Media Literacy
- Support courses: Literacy intervention, newcomer transition class
Online Learning
Boston International High School offers some online learning supports, especially for students who may need flexibility due to work, family, or language transition. These include virtual English development classes, blended learning modules in math and science, and access to online credit-recovery courses. The school has integrated digital tools so that students can complete assignments, collaborate with teachers, and get tutoring via virtual platforms. Online learning is not the primary mode but is an important complement to in-person instruction, especially for students who are more mobile or juggling adult responsibilities.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average / Typical Range (Boston International High School) |
|---|---|
| SAT (Critical Reading + Math) | Varies broadly due to student population; many ELL students may test in the lower-to-mid national percentiles (no publicly available consistent average) |
| ACT | Similar variability; not all students take ACT, so no stable school-wide average published |
| AP Exam Participation | Variable; select students may take AP, but overall AP test-taking is limited compared to elite academic high schools |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Boston International High School has a strong commitment to supporting students through graduation. Given that many of its students are recent immigrants, often with interrupted schooling, the school emphasizes credit recovery, language acquisition, and personalized academic plans. While precise retention data fluctuates, a high proportion of students remain enrolled and earn their high school diplomas, often at rates comparable to or slightly below average for Boston Public Schools, due to the additional language and academic support challenges. Graduation rates generally benefit from targeted interventions, peer mentoring, and dedicated counseling to keep newcomer students on track.
Boston International High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Since Boston International High School is a public school, admission is primarily based on geographic district zoning or special program placement rather than selective academic criteria. There is no formal GPA or SAT/ACT requirement for entry. For specialized programs (like CTE or advanced coursework), students may need to demonstrate academic readiness or English proficiency, but these are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Boston International High School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate / Percentage |
|---|---|
| In-District Enrollment | Essentially 100% for Boston residents in the school’s catchment / designated program area |
| Specialized Program Entry (e.g., newcomer or CTE) | Depends on capacity; often high priority for immigrant students and English language learners |
Boston International High School Application Requirements
To attend Boston International High School, students generally enroll via Boston Public Schools’ standard registration process. Families must provide proof of Boston residency, birth certificate or proof of age, and previous school records when available. Since many students may be newcomers, the school also conducts an assessment of English proficiency and academic background to place students in appropriate supports. There is no tuition because it is a public school. For students applying to specific pathways (for example, career-technical education), there may be an application or interview to assess interest, English readiness, and commitment.
Application Process
- Complete the Boston Public Schools enrollment form for high school.
- Provide proof of residency, age, and prior school records.
- Participate in an intake meeting or assessment for English proficiency / newcomer screening.
- Students are placed in appropriate classes (ELL support, grade level, CTE) based on assessment.
- Attend orientation and meet with academic advisor to develop a graduation plan.
Boston International High School Important Dates / Deadlines
| Event | Date / Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Enrollment / Registration Period | Late spring to early summer before the school year, aligned with Boston Public Schools’ calendar |
| Newcomer / ELL Assessment | At or shortly after enrollment, often in August or early September |
| Orientation for New Students | Typically in late August, before school begins |
| Add / Drop Period for Courses | First two weeks of the school year, per district policy |
Essay Prompt
Boston International High School does not require a formal essay for general admission because it is part of the public school system. However, as part of intake assessment for newcomers, students or families may be asked to write or speak about their educational background, challenges they have faced, and their goals in coming to the United States — this helps the school place them in the correct support classes and understand their academic and personal needs.
Boston International High School Scholarships
As a public high school, Boston International High School does not offer traditional scholarships. However, students may benefit indirectly from district-level funding, grants, or state-supported programs designed to support low-income students, English language learners, or first-generation high school students. Students may also access external scholarships as they graduate and apply to colleges or vocational programs.
Boston International High School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition for In-District Students | $0 (public school) |
| Associated Costs | Minimal; some fees for materials, activity participation, or field trips, but standard academic instruction is covered by the district |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Boston International High School serves an incredibly diverse student body in terms of gender, age, and ethnicity. Students are typically aged between 14 and 18, corresponding to high school grades 9–12. In terms of gender, the distribution is roughly balanced, though specific percentages vary year to year. Ethnically and culturally, the school draws heavily from immigrant populations: many students come from Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. A significant portion are English Language Learners (ELL), reflecting their status as recent arrivals or non-native English speakers. The diversity in national origin means students bring a wide range of first languages, prior schooling experiences, and cultural backgrounds to the school community.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A substantial percentage of students at Boston International High School come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, including many qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch under federal guidelines. The school is designed to support this population with resource access, counseling, and academic support. In addition, the school offers special education services; some students have individual education plans (IEPs) to ensure they receive necessary accommodations. The school’s commitment to equity means that students who might struggle due to socioeconomic factors or learning challenges are given wraparound support, including language intervention, credit recovery, and college/career counseling.
Student Body Numbers
| Category | Number / Estimate |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~250–300 students (varies) |
| Grade 9 | ~60–80 students |
| Grade 10 | ~60–80 students |
| Grade 11 | ~60–80 students |
| Grade 12 | ~60–80 students |
| English Language Learner / Newcomer Students | Approximately 70–80% of student body |
| Students in Career / Technical Pathways | Variable; program-dependent |
Diversity at Boston International High School
Boston International High School exemplifies diversity in a very concrete way: its entire mission centers on serving immigrant students and English language learners. The school community includes a rich mix of cultures, languages, and educational experiences. Many students arrive with limited formal schooling, or with gaps in their education, and the school’s programs are tailored precisely to address these differences. Teachers are trained in culturally responsive pedagogy, and classrooms often include multilingual peer support, newcomer classes, and differentiated learning tracks. The counseling department supports families navigating both academic and personal challenges, such as acculturation, trauma, or economic hardship. Through affinity groups, after-school clubs, and community partnerships, students celebrate their cultural identities and build bridges across backgrounds. This inclusive, equity-centered environment helps students feel valued and supported, regardless of where they came from or what challenges they faced.
Average Earnings
While Boston International High School does not directly track long-term earnings of its graduates, its focus on college readiness, career technical education, and language development positions its students for promising futures. Graduates who successfully complete their diplomas may go on to community colleges, four-year institutions, or vocational training. Many students are likely to enter the workforce in entry- to mid-level jobs but, with the skills gained in high school — especially in language, work-based learning, and practical training — they are well situated for upward mobility. Over time, as alumni pursue higher education or advance in technical fields, their earning potential can grow significantly. Moreover, by fostering resilience, adaptability, and global competence, the school lays the groundwork for economic success across a broad spectrum of career paths, making the long-term value of a Boston International High School education meaningful for both students and their families.
Boston International High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty and staff at Boston International High School are dedicated educators, including core subject teachers, English Language Development (ELD) specialists, special education teachers, counselors, and career pathway advisors. The school also employs paraprofessionals, teaching assistants, and mentors who support newcomer students and help them transition into the high school environment. The student-to-teacher ratio tends to be smaller than in large, comprehensive high schools, allowing for more individualized support. Additionally, staff include administrators, attendance officers, college-and-career counselors, and support personnel who help coordinate with community partners, local agencies, and families.
Faculty Profiles
Many teachers at Boston International High School bring specialized expertise in second language acquisition, multicultural education, and trauma-informed practices. Some have advanced degrees in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), bilingual education, or special education, making them especially effective at addressing the complex needs of newcomer and ELL students. Others have experience in career and technical education, guiding students into real-world work experiences or internship placements. School counselors are skilled in supporting immigrant youth and their families, often providing social-emotional learning and college/career advising. Staff members regularly collaborate with community organizations, immigrant service agencies, and city partners to create a network of support that enhances students’ educational journeys beyond the classroom.
Boston International High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
As a public high school, Boston International High School does not offer on-campus housing. Students typically live with their families in Boston or nearby neighborhoods. The campus environment is tailored to support students who may be balancing school with work or family responsibilities. The school day includes structured academic blocks, ELD classes, advisory periods, and elective options. After school, many students engage in peer mentoring, tutoring, or youth leadership programs. There may also be after-school clubs focusing on cultural identity, language, college prep, or work-based learning. The school cultivates a sense of belonging by celebrating students’ cultural heritages, organizing community nights, family engagement events, and workshops that address immigrant experiences, college access, and career planning. The atmosphere is one of high support and high expectations, with an emphasis on empowerment and transition.
Transportation
Accessibility is a critical part of student life at Boston International High School. Students often rely on Boston Public Transportation to commute to school, including buses and subway lines, depending on their neighborhood. The school is situated in a location accessible to public transit, making it feasible for students across Boston to attend. For students who work or have family obligations, the proximity to transit helps with balancing these responsibilities. On campus, mobility is straightforward: students move between ELD classrooms, core academic rooms, labs, and counseling offices in a compact high school footprint. School staff coordinate with transit authorities or local community groups as needed to ensure students can travel to internships, work placements, or college-visiting events.