Founded in 1647, BPS is the oldest school district and the 73rd largest in North America. It is home to 56,520 students in kindergarten through 12th grade and 10,255 staff members, including approximately 6,900 teachers, 1,500 aides, and 850 administrators. Today, BPS is considered one of the most diverse school districts in the nation, with students coming from more than 140 countries, and 50% of the student body is reportedly bilingual.
The Boston Public Schools district is the home of the nation’s first public school (Boston Latin School, 1635), public elementary school (Mather Elementary School, 1639), and public high school (English High School, 1821). As well, BPS is regarded as one of the highest-performing urban school districts in America.