Benjamin G. Brown School

The Benjamin G. Brown School, located in Somerville, has about 225 students in grades K-5 Classrooms typically have around a 15:1 student-teacher ratio. According to Massachusetts DESE accountability data, student proficiency scores are in the higher range within the state, literacy 82% and math 57%, improvements from year to year are steady. The student populations are diverse linguistically and ethnically and include a mix of White, Hispanic, Black, Asian, and multilingual learnings; there are about 15 classroom teachers and support staff for special education and language services. Brown School is housed in a historic older brick school building that dates back to 1900, partners with community literacy organizations, provides free breakfast, and has completed a renovation of the schoolyard in 2023. Consideration of Somerville housing prices may be a factor for those interested in Brown School, the median price for homes is $900,000 - $1.1 million for all ZIPs. Brown continues to be included on local paper's rankings of the best elementary schools in Massachusetts.

The school continues to emphasize the "whole child," focusing on social-emotional development. Strategies include using the "Zones of Regulation" in K-3 and regular check-ins for grades 4 and 5 to monitor emotional well-regulation and its impact on learning.

Q1. What is the teaching focus at Benjamin G. Brown School?

Ans: At Benjamin G. Brown School the focus of teaching is student-centered learning that builds creativity and confidence.

Q2. How does Benjamin G. Brown School support emotional growth?

Ans: Social-emotional learning activities are used to develop empathy and teamwork.

Q3. What enrichment options are available?

Ans: Benjamin G. Brown School offers enrichment classes in art, music, PE, and technology.

Q4. How do parents participate at Benjamin G. Brown School?

Ans: Parents are involved through an active PTA and school community events.

Q5. What community programs are available?

Ans: Students participate in Somerville’s local cultural and environmental projects.