Families relocating to the Boston area often hear about Brookline’s outstanding public schools – and recent data shows that this reputation is well-earned. According to Niche’s latest rankings of Best Public K-8 Schools in Massachusetts, eight of the state’s top ten schools offering grades K-8 are located in Brookline. This remarkable dominance underscores Brookline’s status as an educational powerhouse for young students.
Brookline’s public schools have long been recognized for their quality, but sweeping the very top of statewide rankings is exceptional. In the 2025–2026 report, Brookline’s school district earned an A+ overall grade with top marks in academics, teacher quality, and more. Parents and educators credit a combination of inspired teaching, a rigorous yet creative curriculum, and a supportive community culture for this success. These latest K-8 rankings highlight how those strengths translate into consistent excellence across nearly all of the town’s elementary and middle schools.
Brookline’s Top-Ranked K‑8 Schools
The following Brookline schools rank among the top ten public K-8 schools in Massachusetts:
- Pierce School – Ranked #1
- William H. Lincoln School – Ranked #2
- Roland Hayes School – Ranked #3
- Lawrence School – Ranked #4
- Michael Driscoll School – Ranked #5
- John D. Runkle School – Ranked #6
- Baker School – Ranked #7
- Florida Ruffin Ridley School – Ranked #9
Only two schools outside Brookline cracked the top 10 — a rare concentration of high-performing public education within one town.
Each of Brookline’s K-8 schools boasts an overall grade of A or A+, reflecting superb academics and school quality across the board. From the historic Pierce School in Brookline Village to the newly renovated Driscoll School, these institutions consistently deliver high achievement and well-rounded education.
What Makes Brookline Schools Stand Out
Several key factors distinguish Brookline’s public schools and explain why families are eager to move into these school zones:
Rigorous, Well-Rounded Curriculum
Brookline schools offer a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic rigor with creativity and enrichment. Students benefit from strong core academics and also enjoy robust programs in music, art, and world languages—some introduced as early as elementary grades. This fosters both preparedness and a love of learning.
Exceptional Teachers and Small Class Sizes
Brookline attracts top-tier educators who are deeply committed to student growth. Many teachers hold advanced degrees and take an individualized approach to instruction. Class sizes are manageable, allowing for meaningful student-teacher interaction and personalized support.
Diversity and Inclusive Culture
Brookline is one of the most diverse suburbs in Massachusetts, and its schools reflect this vibrancy. Children grow up in classrooms filled with peers from different cultural, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds. This creates a dynamic learning environment that promotes global awareness and social-emotional development.
Strong Community Involvement
Brookline is a town where education is a shared value. Parent involvement is high, and community support for public schools is consistent and passionate. From volunteer-led events to voter-backed school improvements, families benefit from a culture that prioritizes learning at every level.
Family-Friendly Lifestyle Near Boston
Beyond its exceptional schools, Brookline offers one of the most desirable lifestyles in Greater Boston for families.
Walkability and Urban Convenience
Brookline is extremely walkable, with safe, tree-lined streets and easy access to daily amenities. The town is served by the MBTA Green Line, making commuting into Boston simple. Many residents walk or bike to schools, parks, coffee shops, and libraries—adding to the town’s accessible, community-oriented feel.
Abundant Parks and Outdoor Space
Brookline offers a rich network of parks and playgrounds, from small neighborhood greens to expansive spaces like Larz Anderson Park and Hall’s Pond Sanctuary. These outdoor areas provide room for families to play, explore, and relax close to home.
Vibrant Neighborhoods with Cultural Charm
Neighborhood centers like Coolidge Corner and Brookline Village offer a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Families enjoy weekend farmers markets, storytime at the public library, local theater at the Coolidge, and a range of child-friendly cafes and shops.
Safe, Supportive Environment
Brookline is consistently ranked as one of the safest towns in Massachusetts. Public services are strong, infrastructure is well-maintained, and proximity to Boston’s world-renowned medical centers adds peace of mind.
High Demand—and Happy Families
It’s no surprise that Brookline’s combination of elite schools and exceptional lifestyle makes it one of the most sought-after towns for families moving to the Boston area. Homes in neighborhoods near these top-rated schools are in high demand. While competition is fierce, many families consider it a worthwhile investment—not just in real estate, but in their children’s future.
Brookline offers something rare: world-class public education within a vibrant, walkable, culturally rich town just minutes from downtown Boston. For families seeking the best of both worlds—academic excellence and quality of life—Brookline stands alone.
