Education

Transforming public high schools in New England to propel excellence and equity for students

We envision public high schools across New England providing relevant and rigorous learning experiences that support students. We focus on high schools because they play a critical role in young people’s lives. We center our work on two aspirations: excellence and equity.

School transformation takes many forms across many types of schools. Yet, all share a deep commitment to high expectations for all students; trusting relationships with peers and adults; rigorous and relevant learning experiences full of joy and purpose; personalized supports; and abundant opportunities for students to discover their gifts and passions.

This is excellence and equity. It’s what enables all students to thrive and graduate ready to choose and pursue fulfilling paths for their future.

Peabody High School

Strategies

Learn about the strategies within the Education Program.

Build Public Will

Elevating the voices of students, parents, and educators to raise awareness and shape new possibilities
more about this strategy Read More
Catalyze New Models

Partnering with school and system leaders as they envision and create the learning experiences their young people deserve
more about this strategy Read More
Invest In Educators

Supporting a diverse, skilled community of professionals bringing real change to classrooms, schools, and school systems
more about this strategy Read More

Recent Grants in Education

Brockton Interfaith Community, Inc.

To support Youth SOL’s work with Brockton’s high school students

Award Date: 04/01/2026
Amount: $125,000
Term: 15 months
Program:
Education Click to see more of the Education program
Strategy:
Build Public Will Click to see more of the Build Public Will strategy

Boston Globe Media Partners, LLC

To continue support for The Great Divide

Award Date: 04/01/2026
Amount: $800,000
Term: 24 months
Program:
Education Click to see more of the Education program
Strategy:
Build Public Will Click to see more of the Build Public Will strategy

Brown’s Promise

To provide supplemental support for Brown’s Promises work in MA

Award Date: 04/01/2026
Amount: $50,000
Term: 10 months
Program:
Education Click to see more of the Education program
Strategy:
Build Public Will Click to see more of the Build Public Will strategy
Fiscal Sponsor: Southern Education Foundation, Inc.

More Education Grants

Grants awarded by the Barr Foundation originate in different ways.

The majority are initiated by our staff or through a request for proposals (RFP) process. We welcome inquiries from those who feel their work may align with Barr’s Education strategies and who wish to introduce themselves to us.

The best approach is to email education@barrfoundation.org with a brief description (300-400 words) of your organization, the funding opportunity you would like us to consider, and the strategy(ies) with which it aligns. Given the high volume of inquiries we receive, it may take a few weeks to hear back.