The Woodward School: Where Young Women Discover Their Power

Since opening our doors in 1894, Woodward has been helping girls in grades 6-12 find their voices, pursue their passions, and become leaders who change the world.

Our Story Begins with a Revolutionary Idea

In 1869, Dr. Ebenezer and Mary Woodward founded what would eventually become The Woodward School. As the family physician to John and Abigail Adams, Dr. Woodward witnessed firsthand how brilliant women could be when given the chance. Inspired by Abigail Adams' famous words to "Remember the Ladies," the Woodwards established their vision for a school that would be unlike anything else available to girls.

When the school officially opened in 1894, it differed from other schools for young women. While others focused on teaching etiquette and embroidery to wealthy families, Woodward had bigger dreams. We wanted to offer rigorous academics—Latin, Greek, advanced mathematics, science, and history—to girls from all backgrounds, not just the elite.

Education That Opens Doors

Our first headmaster, Carrie Small, designed a radical curriculum for its time. She believed girls deserved the same challenging education as their brothers. That tradition continues today, where our students dive deep into subjects that prepare them for college and leadership in whatever field they choose.

A Community That Reflects the World

Today, Woodward welcomes students from Greater Boston, the South Shore, and countries around the globe. More than 60% of our students are young women of color, creating a vibrant community where different perspectives enrich everyone's learning.

With an average class size of just 8-10 students and a 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio, every girl gets the individual attention she needs to thrive. The results speak for themselves: 100% of our graduates go on to college, and many receive acceptances to the nation's most prestigious universities.

Making Dreams Accessible

Exceptional education shouldn't depend on your family's bank account. That's why over 70% of our families receive financial aid. Without our small campus overhead, we can invest directly in what matters most—outstanding teachers, innovative programs, and the support every student needs to succeed.

Join Us in Changing the Future

Here's a sobering fact: only 1.4% of charitable giving in America supports girls' education. When you support Woodward, you're not just helping one student but investing in the future leaders, innovators, and changemakers our world desperately needs.

Every gift helps us continue the vision the Woodwards established over 150 years ago: proving that when you give young women an exceptional education, there's no limit to what they can achieve.

Woodward's Venetian Masquerade Gala

Sponsored by Masons Steakhouse