* Boston Latin School (Lower School): While Boston Latin School is famously a middle and high school, it *does* have a lower school attached, which feeds directly into the middle school. This is extremely competitive to get into.
* Schools within the Boston Public Schools system that often perform exceptionally well on standardized tests and have strong reputations: These schools change over time, so research the current rankings from reputable sources. However, schools consistently mentioned include but aren't limited to:
* The Agassiz School: A strong K-8 school with a focus on academics and the arts.
* Hawthorne Elementary School: Often cited for its strong performance.
* The Josiah Quincy Upper School (K-8): While technically K-8, the elementary years are a highly competitive part of the school.
* Several other BPS elementary schools frequently receive high ratings from various sources, though rankings change. You should check current Boston Public Schools data and independent school ratings websites.
* Independent (Private) Schools: Boston has many excellent private elementary schools, but their "elite" status is often linked to tuition cost and exclusive nature. Examples include:
* Winsor School: A highly regarded all-girls school with a strong elementary program.
* The Advent School: A well-regarded independent school with an elementary program.
* Concord Academy (Lower School): While in Concord, not Boston, it is close enough to be considered by many families in the Greater Boston area.
To find the *best* elementary school for *your* child, I strongly recommend:
* Checking the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) website: This provides standardized test scores and other data for all public schools in the state.
* Reviewing school rankings from reputable sources: Look at publications that use multiple metrics, not just test scores.
* Visiting schools in person: This is crucial to get a feel for the school culture and environment.
* Talking to current parents: Their firsthand experience is invaluable.
Remember, the "best" school is subjective and depends on your child's individual needs and learning style. Don't solely rely on rankings; do your own thorough research.