Holden School

CONTACT:

8 Pearl St.
Charlestown, MA 02129
617-242-3940
www.holdenschool.com

Janice Brenner, Director, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

Here is another innovative learning community dedicated to helping those whose learning needs cannot be met by existing institutions and traditional pedagogies. Founded in 1976 by two employees of a Boston social service agency who, when the special education program was closed for financial reasons, refused to let it die. The Holden School aids low-income, special needs youth in grades 6-12, many of whom face the combined challenges of poverty, abuse, homelessness, mental illness, and more. Only 46% live with a parent or extended family member. Some live independently; some are homeless; some are parenting. These are young lives shadowed by hardship. The curriculum is intensely practical -- physical education, career education, adult living skills and computer skills, and electives in shop, cooking, art, photography, and music recording. A School-to-Careers program helps prepare these students to enter the work world, while career counselors help them develop work values, skills and goals. Group and individual counseling are central to the program, as emotional and behavioral growth are key to the students' success. Graduates go on to job training programs, community colleges, public universities, and employment in the community. Others have given up on these kids. Philanthropy can help by believing in and supporting their school.

(2002: CULTURE: Education: Formal: Schools)