School Choice in Massachusetts

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make—and in Massachusetts, you’ve got options. Whether you’re looking for something close to home or a program tailored to your child’s unique interests, the Commonwealth offers a wide range of educational pathways. Those include Publix Schools, Beyond the Neighborhood, Charter Schools, Vocational Technical Education, METCO Program, Virtual Schools, Mass Academy at WP, and  Private & Home Schooling.  

All children in Massachusetts have the option to attend public school in their local district. Additionally, all children between 6 and 16 years old must attend school in some setting.

View the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education resource: Choosing a School: A Family’s Guide to Educational Options in Massachusetts.

 Public Schools in Your District 

All children have the right to attend public school where they live, whether in a city-run district like Boston or part of a regional district like Wachusett. Some towns even split grade levels between local and regional schools. If your town doesn’t have its own schools, it may partner with another district, allowing students to access public education free of charge still. 

  

Beyond the Neighborhood – Inter-district School Choice

Families can explore inter-district school choice, letting students apply to attend schools outside their home district. Admission often involves an application and, if needed, a lottery. 

Vocational Technical Education 

High school students can pursue hands-on career training in fields such as culinary arts, engineering, and agriculture, while still meeting their academic requirements. Programs may be offered within local districts or regional vocational schools. 

Public Charter Schools 

These independent public schools offer innovative programs and are open to all students in the state of Massachusetts. Seats fill fast, so apply early!  

Other School Choice Options in MA

METCO Program 

A historic program focused on equity, METCO allows Boston and Springfield students to attend schools in suburban districts, with transportation and support services provided. 

Virtual Schools 

Prefer learning from home? Massachusetts offers two Commonwealth Virtual Schools serving grades K–12. 

Mass Academy at WPI 

This elite public high school focuses on STEM for juniors and seniors. Admission is competitive, but the opportunities are vast. 

Private & Home Schooling 

Families can also choose private or parochial schools (tuition required), or homeschool with approval from the local district. 

 DESE Resources on School Choice

Regardless of your child’s needs or interests, Massachusetts offers a pathway to help them thrive. For more info and school profiles, visit the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website:

School Choice: https://www.doe.mass.edu/finance/schoolchoice/default.html

Collaboratives: https://www.doe.mass.edu/edcollaboratives/default.html 

CTE Admissions: https://www.doe.mass.edu/ccte/policies/admissions/default.html 

Virtual Schools: https://www.doe.mass.edu/cmvs/

Special Education: https://www.doe.mass.edu/specialeducation/

Use the DESE School Finder to search for local school options across Massachusetts. 

If Massachusetts families have questions about school choice, they can contact FCSN’s School Finder team for more assistance. 800-208-2242