METCO
The METCO Program is a voluntary educational desegregation program that provides opportunities for students from Boston and Springfield to attend participating suburban public schools, including the Public Schools of Brookline.
About METCO
METCO stands for Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity. The program is designed to increase diversity, reduce racial isolation, and provide integrated educational opportunities for students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is METCO?
METCO is a voluntary, one-way educational desegregation program that places students from Boston and Springfield in participating suburban public schools.
What is the mission of METCO?
METCO’s mission is to promote quality integrated educational opportunities for urban and suburban students and to support collaboration among families, schools, and communities.
How long has METCO existed?
METCO has been in existence since 1966.
How is METCO funded?
METCO is funded through a grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Funding is approved annually by the legislature.
Who is eligible for METCO?
Students participating in METCO must reside in the Boston or Springfield metropolitan areas. Family income is not a determining factor.
Are resident students denied space because of METCO placement?
No. METCO student placement is based on available space in each school.
What supports are available for METCO students?
In Brookline, METCO support includes district staff, school liaisons, social workers, bus monitors, and access to the same school services available to resident students.
Who provides transportation?
The Brookline METCO Program contracts with Eastern Bus Company for K–8 student transportation. Brookline High School students are provided with MBTA Charlie Cards.
Are students with disabilities eligible for METCO?
Students with disabilities may participate in METCO if the needed accommodations and services are available in the participating district.
What is expected of METCO families?
Families are expected to participate in their child’s academic and social growth, attend scheduled meetings and school functions, and maintain communication with the school.
Brookline METCO Contact
Brookline METCO Program
Phone: 617-730-2464
Fax: 617-264-6429
Email: suzie_talukdar@psbma.org
METCO, Inc.
Families interested in participating in METCO should contact METCO, Inc.
METCO, Inc.
40 Dimock Street
Roxbury, MA
Phone: 617-427-1545
Visit the METCO, Inc. website