METCO, Incorporated

METCO is the nation’s largest voluntary school desegregation program. Founded in the peak of the Civil Rights Movement, METCO places students from racially segregated Boston neighborhoods into racially isolated suburban schools—creating learning environments rich in cultural, educational, ethnic, and racial diversity. METCO students are full and equal members of their suburban school community, and receive the same supports. Enabled by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 76, Section 12A, METCO, Inc., is a Boston-area institution, expanding opportunity and breaking down educational barriers for more than 50 years.

Over more than a half century, METCO has changed the lives of tens of thousands of students, supporting 3,300 students annually in 31 participating suburban school districts and 190 public schools. METCO’s track record speaks for itself. The graduation and college attainment rates of METCO students are far above state averages. But METCO’s impact extends beyond the classroom: students, parents, and teachers of different backgrounds appreciate diversity and find common ground through shared experiences; lifelong friendships form between diverse students; and young people are prepared to become global citizens. Today, tens of thousands of METCO alumni are community leaders in business, government, and non-profit organizations, and proud parents of next-generation METCO students.

METCO Inc., the program’s headquarters, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that serves as a hub for resources, support, and advocacy for partner communities and the nation. We manage the application process for Boston families; provide academics, enrichment, and social work for students; professional development, parent education, and engagement events for adults; and advocacy for the mission of integration.

We are in a period of fast-paced change and growth. The Headquarters team functions somewhat like a start-up, working collaboratively and transparently to support a range of bold initiatives in service of the vision of racial equity. We value professionalism, integrity, respect for students and families, accountability, and learning and growth. Success on this team requires enthusiasm for innovation; strategic problem-solving; attention to small things; and uncompromising belief in the value, talent, and power of children of color.