Buxton School has been leading the way in progressive education for almost 100 years. We take to heart John Dewey’s idea that “education is not a preparation for life; education is life itself” with a living and learning experience that is vivid, intentional, and engaging.
The Buxton method means that teachers teach with passion inside and outside of the classroom, and students care for the campus and each other. Creativity and the arts are woven into everything we do. And we apply that caring and creativity through on-campus work programs and off-campus events like our annual Urban Intensive trip.
The Buxton student has a rich inner life and deep potential. They are interesting young people—students who see more opportunity to contribute and grow here than at a traditional high school.
Buxton’s campus is on 114 acres in Williamstown, Mass, adjacent to the world-famous Clark Art Institute and overlooking Williams College. It’s an ideal learning environment—an interdependent, tight-knit community where everyone is seen, listened to, and appreciated.
Unique Characteristics
The Urban Intensive Trip is a signature program. Each year, the entire school travels to a different city to study important issues there, and learn about the world in a vivid, hands-on way.
Buxton encourages student initiatives. You can start clubs, create activities, cook meals, become a leader and “own” your experience in multiple ways.