Commonwealth School

Commonwealth School is a small independent day school in Boston's Back Bay, serving about 150 students in grades 9 through 12. The campus occupies a row of townhouses on Commonwealth Avenue, a short walk from the Public Garden and two MBTA lines. Students come from across greater Boston and from a wide mix of backgrounds.

The academic program is the draw. Classes rarely exceed fifteen students, and faculty teach humanities, sciences, math, and the arts alongside four languages: Mandarin, French, Latin, and Spanish. Teachers also advise students, grade substantial written work, and tend to know every student in the building by name.

The school's traditions shape the teaching job in practical ways. Project Week sets aside regular classes so faculty can lead immersive units of their own design. Hancock, a Friday afternoon all-school hike, means teachers plan around a shared outdoor day each week. Expect to write detailed narrative comments, not just letter grades.

Because Commonwealth School is a day school in a walkable neighborhood, faculty skip dorm duty and weekend supervision. Compensation is competitive for Boston-area independent schools. The finances are steady, with net assets near $35 million and annual revenue around $19 million in 2023.

Hiring runs heaviest from January through April for fall faculty starts in English, math, sciences, history, languages, and the arts. Staff roles in admissions, advancement, college counseling, and operations open throughout the year.

For teachers who want small classes, strong students, and an urban commute, Commonwealth School offers a clear day school alternative in New England.