
Education
Transforming public high schools in New England to propel excellence and equity for students
We envision public high schools across New England providing relevant and rigorous learning experiences that support students. We focus on high schools because they play a critical role in young people’s lives. We center our work on two aspirations: excellence and equity.
School transformation takes many forms across many types of schools. Yet, all share a deep commitment to high expectations for all students; trusting relationships with peers and adults; rigorous and relevant learning experiences full of joy and purpose; personalized supports; and abundant opportunities for students to discover their gifts and passions.
This is excellence and equity. It’s what enables all students to thrive and graduate ready to choose and pursue fulfilling paths for their future.

Margarita Muñiz Academy
Strategies
Learn about the strategies within the Education Program.
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Build Public Will
Elevating the voices of students, parents, and educators to raise awareness and shape new possibilities
more about this strategy Read More -
Catalyze New Models
Partnering with school and system leaders as they envision and create the learning experiences their young people deserve
more about this strategy Read More -
Invest In Educators
Supporting a diverse, skilled community of professionals bringing real change to classrooms, schools, and school systems
more about this strategy Read More


All young people can succeed in learning, work, and life.
Springfield Public Schools
Recent Grants in Education
MassPotential
To provide core support for MassPotential
- Award Date: 01/07/2025
- Amount: $300,000
- Term: 12 months
- Program:
- Strategy:
- Fiscal Sponsor: The Goodnation Foundation, Inc.
Attuned Education Partners
To support the Boston Public Schools process to review and plan for the future of the district’s education options
- Award Date: 12/02/2024
- Amount: $190,000
- Term: 7 months
- Program:
- Strategy:
50CAN, Inc.
To support ConnCAN’s work with the New Teacher Track and Right to Read CT coalitions
- Award Date: 12/02/2024
- Amount: $45,000
- Term: 9 months
- Program:
- Strategy:
Grants awarded by the Barr Foundation originate in different ways.
The majority are initiated by our staff or through a request for proposals (RFP) process.
We welcome inquiries from those who feel their work may align with Barr’s Education strategies and who wish to introduce themselves to us. The best approach is to email us with a brief description (300-400 words) of your organization, the funding opportunity you would like us to consider, and the strategy(ies) with which it aligns. Given the high volume of inquiries we receive, it may take a few weeks to hear back.

Winooski Schools
Education Team
Education News + Insights
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System-Level Leadership that Enables, Supports, & Sustains School Transformation
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MCAS Question 2 Vote: Where We Go from Here
Read More Click to Read More about MCAS Question 2 Vote: Where We Go from Here