Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Epiphany founded, and when?
Epiphany School was founded in 1997 by a coalition of educators, Episcopal clergy, and community activists in response to a critical need for a high quality, tuition-free middle school targeting economically disadvantaged families in the Boston area. In 1998, Epiphany opened its doors to forty-one fifth and sixth grade students in a space donated by the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester. In 1999, we added twenty-one new fifth graders and, in September 2000, reached our goal of serving 80 students in grades 5-8. On December 18, 2001, we moved into our new, permanent schoolhouse located at 154 Centre Street in Dorchester, abutting the Shawmut T-station -- a momentous achievement in our school's short history.
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What are Epiphany's admissions procedures?
Epiphany targets children from economically disadvantaged families in Boston. Children considered for admission to Epiphany must be entering the fifth grade, reside in the City of Boston, and qualify for the federal free/reduced fee lunch program. In addition, parents or guardians must be prepared to work 2 hours per week at Epiphany in lieu of paying tuition and must believe that a 12-hour school day is appropriate for their child. All parents sign a covenant agreeing to their attendance at, support of, and commitment to the school. Epiphany currently uses a lottery system to admit the majority of its students. 20% of the new spots in the school each year are reserved for referrals from the Massachusetts Department of Social Services (DSS). Priority is given to siblings of current students. Families with students currently well served by Individualized Education Plans (IEP under Chapter 766 in the public schools) should consider whether Epiphany will serve their children well, though an IEP alone does not disqualify a student for admission.
How this makes Epiphany unique: Epiphany is unique among schools serving economically disadvantaged youth in Boston. Unlike many programs which targeted especially motivated students who have demonstrated academic progress, Epiphany-- through its admissions procedures-- ensures that we serve students with a wide range of skills and capacities. Indeed, many of Epiphany's students have not done well in their previous schools and, by conventional measures and assumptions, are highly at-risk of academic failure, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and delinquency. In Epiphany's small and structured environment however, students demonstrate remarkable growth, both academically and personally. In many ways, students who have previously struggled in school have more to gain from our unique program than students who have done well. Our goal is to help each student reach his or her fullest potential.
Historically, Epiphany's student body has been approximately 20% African American, 25% Cape Verdean, 5% Caucasian, 5% Haitian, 20% Latino, 15% West Indian, 5% Vietnamese and 5% "other".
back to top
What are the main components of Epiphany's program?
The heart of our program is a strong academic program. Epiphany has a clearly articulated core curriculum with detailed academic and social benchmarks for each grade. Students who are unable to meet minimum benchmark requirements may be asked to repeat a grade or participate in special summer programming. Alternatively, students who are consistently unable to reach benchmark requirements are given defined Independent Learning Plans (ILPs). In addition, we serve three meals per day, provide after-school and summer programming, and help families access vitally needed health, prevention, and social services. Epiphany is open 12 hours a day, 11 months a year and strives to support the entire family as the best way to serve each child. Students are taught in small groups (generally 10 students per class) and individually. A heavy emphasis on reading and writing helps students achieve across the board and, at Epiphany, each student receives 45 minutes daily of both Reading and Writing. Other subjects include Math, Science, Social Studies, Religion, Music, and Art. The curriculum includes a wide-range of hands-on and participatory learning projects such as school-wide debates, oral presentations, and interdisciplinary learning. We believe homework helps students become independent learners. Our schedule includes a structured two-hour evening study four nights a week with daily homework to help teach effective study habits. This study hall is required for all students except for those students on the honor roll.
back to top
What is "full-service" programming and why does Epiphany offer it?
Epiphany is a full-service school combining the delivery of an excellent academic program with personal supports for each student. Through collaborative programming with community agencies, the School works to help students and families address their pressing needs. Epiphany has provided full service programming from the outset because we believe that an academic program, however strong it may be, is incomplete if a child is unable for reasons of health or general well being to take advantage of its opportunities. Therefore, providing full-service programming is central to Epiphany's mission.
Full service at Epiphany requires communication and understanding between parents, students, and the School to encourage student strengths and meet children's needs. Epiphany's internal mechanism for providing full service is the Outreach Team, a group of teachers and administrators. The specific objective of our full service program is the delivery to students of vitally needed health, prevention, and social services. This includes everything from immunizations to psychological counseling. It includes providing three meals each day and being fitted for new glasses. It has included helping families access support from social service agencies and assisting parents looking for work or housing. In doing this work, we partner with students and their parents or guardians, serving as a conduit to many of the programs and community agencies in Boston. We strive to make judicious choices within the limits of our human and financial resources to serve our families as effectively as possible.
A commitment to full-service programming enables us to live into our stated commitment to never give up on a child. It helps provide the varied supports each child needs to thrive. Being a full-service school connects our students and families to the community and brings the community to Epiphany, thereby enriching all of our lives.
back to top
How does Epiphany know that its programming is working?
We use many different methods to assess student growth. Recent testing indicates that students are continuing to achieve at accelerated rates, as they have consistently over the past ten years. The Stanford 10 and other, in-house tests, show our students achieving at rates far superior to those in public schools.
At the same time, Epiphany students are growing in confidence and gaining a stronger sense of their place in the world. In short, Epiphany's students are changing from a population at significant risk of academic failure to a group of children prepared for secondary education in academically demanding environments.
back to top
What is the background of Epiphany's teaching staff?
Our 9 Master Teachers design and teach the curriculum, and all have previous teaching experience. They are paid competitive salaries and given the resources they need to teach effectively and to continue their professional education. They also oversee and mentor our Teaching Interns. Epiphany's Interns are young teachers, typically recent college graduates, who commit to a year (or more) of service in exchange for room, board, health care, and a very modest stipend ($400/month). In essential ways, the Interns are the heart of Epiphany: they teach classes, coach sports, run extra-curricular activities, supervise study hall, mentor students, and more. They are individually and as a group idealistic, talented, hard working, and able to accomplish the often difficult task of turning their beliefs into meaningful action.
back to top
Does Epiphany intend to expand beyond 90 students?
No. We believe that the model works. It is large enough to get momentum in classes, and small enough to facilitate our mission "to work in close partnership with families". Again, Epiphany finds itself on the forefront of a growing educational movement - in this case, the move towards smaller schools. Nationwide, schools are replicating this model. The Epiphany model specifically is also being replicated around the country, with schools as nearby as Lawrence, MA and as far away as Tucsan, AZ
back to top
What does it mean that Epiphany is a school "that never gives up on a child?"
It means that Epiphany does not use expulsion as part of its regular disciplinary discussions and, unless a student threatens the safety of others, there is almost no way students will be kicked out of Epiphany. It means that students may be required to participate in individualize programs for much of the day and/or work with a tutor; they may be required to attend therapy sessions or may be removed from the afternoon program; their parents may have to meet with the Principal again and again; and, they may be suspended repeatedly-but they will never be expelled unless they are a threat to their own safety or that of others.
back to top
What happens to Epiphany students after they graduate?
Many fine young people have graduated from Epiphany School, going on to a diverse array of high schools and colleges. Approximately 1/3 of our graduates attend private school (boarding and day), approximately 1/3 attend local parochial schools, and approximately 1/3 attend charter schools. Much work and consideration goes into ensuring that all students are able to attend high schools that are appropriate for their further learning and development. Epiphany provides a limited amount of last-dollar scholarships to ensure students have access to schools where they can continue to flourish. Many graduates return to Epiphany regularly to use the school's facilities and to study in the assembly hall in the evenings. Graduates serve as counselors in Epiphany's Summer Intensive program and tutor students during the regular school year. Epiphany employs two full-time Directors of Graduate Support who work closely with the graduates to ensure their success in high school.
back to top
What does it mean that Epiphany is an independent school?
As an independent school, Epiphany has tremendous flexibility in serving students, ensuring that each child receives the programming that will best ensure his or her learning and development. It also means that we receive almost no federal, state, or local funding; Epiphany relies on private, foundation, and corporate support.
back to top
What does it mean that Epiphany is a religious school?
Epiphany admits students of all faiths. In fact, historically, less than 5% of the students have been Episcopalians at any one time, and we currently enroll students who are Roman Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, and others whose families do not participate in any organized religion. Epiphany does not proselytize, but the school does bear witness to the idea that we find God in and through each other. Epiphany is about action inspired by faith. We believe that every child is sacred, and that every child has a soul. We try to make sure that all children receive the services and support they need and that all children realize their full potential to lead and support those around them.
back to top
What role does the Episcopal Church play in the school?
Epiphany is an independent school and is not funded or controlled by the Diocese; however, we receive financial support from churches, outreach groups, and individual parishioners in the Boston area and surrounding communities. We are fortunate that many of our volunteers come from area churches to donate their time by serving food and tutoring. We have daily prayer and a weekly church service. Participation by students in the latter is generally encouraged, but alternative programming is available for students whose families chose for them not to participate. In addition, students take a religion class.
back to top
How does the cost-per-student at Epiphany compare to the cost-per-student in the Boston Public Schools?
An apples-to-apples comparison is difficult, if not impossible, given the extensive nature of Epiphany's offerings (12 hour school days; 3 meals daily; full-service programming). With our after-school and summer programs, Epiphany offers far more to its students than public schools are able to. Epiphany has many volunteers, which is probably something that couldn't be replicated in the public schools, and of course there are also questions around economies of scale. At $20,000 a student, Epiphany is undoubtedly more expensive than Boston Public School, estimates of which range from $9-13,000, but a true comparison would also have to include costs of social work, afterschool activities, and summer programming. If you are interested in learning more, please contact us at info@epiphanyschool.com.
back to top
What can I do to help?
In order to exist as an independent, tuition-free school, Epiphany depends on the loyal support of so many individuals. Please consider giving what you can. Epiphany is an approved 501(c)3 organization and therefore all donations are fully tax deductible. The school is prepared to receive stock gifts. This is an attractive option for potential donors who currently hold long-term appreciated securities. We would also welcome the opportunity to discuss how, if appropriate, Epiphany might fit into your Estate planning. For any questions on how to best donate to Epiphany, please contact the Development Office at 617-326-0425 x203.
Epiphany also depends on the loyal support of its volunteers. Volunteers are needed to help tutor students, work in the kitchen, and contribute to the various teams and committees that make the school work. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, please e-mail us at info@epiphanyschool.com.
- Why was Epiphany founded, and when?
- What are Epiphany's admissions procedures?
- What are the main components of Epiphany's program?
- What is "full-service" programming and why does Epiphany offer it?
- How does Epiphany know that its programming is working?
- What is the background of Epiphany's teaching staff?
- Does Epiphany intend to expand beyond 80 students?
- What does it mean that Epiphany is a school "that never gives up on a child?"
- What happens to Epiphany students after they graduate?
- What does it mean that Epiphany is an independent school?
- What does it mean that Epiphany is a religious school?
- What role does the Episcopal Church play in the school?
- How does the cost-per-student at Epiphany compare to the cost-per-student in the Boston Public Schools?
- What can I do to help?
Why was Epiphany founded, and when?
Epiphany School was founded in 1997 by a coalition of educators, Episcopal clergy, and community activists in response to a critical need for a high quality, tuition-free middle school targeting economically disadvantaged families in the Boston area. In 1998, Epiphany opened its doors to forty-one fifth and sixth grade students in a space donated by the Parish of All Saints in Dorchester. In 1999, we added twenty-one new fifth graders and, in September 2000, reached our goal of serving 80 students in grades 5-8. On December 18, 2001, we moved into our new, permanent schoolhouse located at 154 Centre Street in Dorchester, abutting the Shawmut T-station -- a momentous achievement in our school's short history.
back to top
What are Epiphany's admissions procedures?
Epiphany targets children from economically disadvantaged families in Boston. Children considered for admission to Epiphany must be entering the fifth grade, reside in the City of Boston, and qualify for the federal free/reduced fee lunch program. In addition, parents or guardians must be prepared to work 2 hours per week at Epiphany in lieu of paying tuition and must believe that a 12-hour school day is appropriate for their child. All parents sign a covenant agreeing to their attendance at, support of, and commitment to the school. Epiphany currently uses a lottery system to admit the majority of its students. 20% of the new spots in the school each year are reserved for referrals from the Massachusetts Department of Social Services (DSS). Priority is given to siblings of current students. Families with students currently well served by Individualized Education Plans (IEP under Chapter 766 in the public schools) should consider whether Epiphany will serve their children well, though an IEP alone does not disqualify a student for admission.
How this makes Epiphany unique: Epiphany is unique among schools serving economically disadvantaged youth in Boston. Unlike many programs which targeted especially motivated students who have demonstrated academic progress, Epiphany-- through its admissions procedures-- ensures that we serve students with a wide range of skills and capacities. Indeed, many of Epiphany's students have not done well in their previous schools and, by conventional measures and assumptions, are highly at-risk of academic failure, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and delinquency. In Epiphany's small and structured environment however, students demonstrate remarkable growth, both academically and personally. In many ways, students who have previously struggled in school have more to gain from our unique program than students who have done well. Our goal is to help each student reach his or her fullest potential.
Historically, Epiphany's student body has been approximately 20% African American, 25% Cape Verdean, 5% Caucasian, 5% Haitian, 20% Latino, 15% West Indian, 5% Vietnamese and 5% "other".
back to top
What are the main components of Epiphany's program?
The heart of our program is a strong academic program. Epiphany has a clearly articulated core curriculum with detailed academic and social benchmarks for each grade. Students who are unable to meet minimum benchmark requirements may be asked to repeat a grade or participate in special summer programming. Alternatively, students who are consistently unable to reach benchmark requirements are given defined Independent Learning Plans (ILPs). In addition, we serve three meals per day, provide after-school and summer programming, and help families access vitally needed health, prevention, and social services. Epiphany is open 12 hours a day, 11 months a year and strives to support the entire family as the best way to serve each child. Students are taught in small groups (generally 10 students per class) and individually. A heavy emphasis on reading and writing helps students achieve across the board and, at Epiphany, each student receives 45 minutes daily of both Reading and Writing. Other subjects include Math, Science, Social Studies, Religion, Music, and Art. The curriculum includes a wide-range of hands-on and participatory learning projects such as school-wide debates, oral presentations, and interdisciplinary learning. We believe homework helps students become independent learners. Our schedule includes a structured two-hour evening study four nights a week with daily homework to help teach effective study habits. This study hall is required for all students except for those students on the honor roll.
back to top
What is "full-service" programming and why does Epiphany offer it?
Epiphany is a full-service school combining the delivery of an excellent academic program with personal supports for each student. Through collaborative programming with community agencies, the School works to help students and families address their pressing needs. Epiphany has provided full service programming from the outset because we believe that an academic program, however strong it may be, is incomplete if a child is unable for reasons of health or general well being to take advantage of its opportunities. Therefore, providing full-service programming is central to Epiphany's mission.
Full service at Epiphany requires communication and understanding between parents, students, and the School to encourage student strengths and meet children's needs. Epiphany's internal mechanism for providing full service is the Outreach Team, a group of teachers and administrators. The specific objective of our full service program is the delivery to students of vitally needed health, prevention, and social services. This includes everything from immunizations to psychological counseling. It includes providing three meals each day and being fitted for new glasses. It has included helping families access support from social service agencies and assisting parents looking for work or housing. In doing this work, we partner with students and their parents or guardians, serving as a conduit to many of the programs and community agencies in Boston. We strive to make judicious choices within the limits of our human and financial resources to serve our families as effectively as possible.
A commitment to full-service programming enables us to live into our stated commitment to never give up on a child. It helps provide the varied supports each child needs to thrive. Being a full-service school connects our students and families to the community and brings the community to Epiphany, thereby enriching all of our lives.
back to top
How does Epiphany know that its programming is working?
We use many different methods to assess student growth. Recent testing indicates that students are continuing to achieve at accelerated rates, as they have consistently over the past ten years. The Stanford 10 and other, in-house tests, show our students achieving at rates far superior to those in public schools.
At the same time, Epiphany students are growing in confidence and gaining a stronger sense of their place in the world. In short, Epiphany's students are changing from a population at significant risk of academic failure to a group of children prepared for secondary education in academically demanding environments.
back to top
What is the background of Epiphany's teaching staff?
Our 9 Master Teachers design and teach the curriculum, and all have previous teaching experience. They are paid competitive salaries and given the resources they need to teach effectively and to continue their professional education. They also oversee and mentor our Teaching Interns. Epiphany's Interns are young teachers, typically recent college graduates, who commit to a year (or more) of service in exchange for room, board, health care, and a very modest stipend ($400/month). In essential ways, the Interns are the heart of Epiphany: they teach classes, coach sports, run extra-curricular activities, supervise study hall, mentor students, and more. They are individually and as a group idealistic, talented, hard working, and able to accomplish the often difficult task of turning their beliefs into meaningful action.
back to top
Does Epiphany intend to expand beyond 90 students?
No. We believe that the model works. It is large enough to get momentum in classes, and small enough to facilitate our mission "to work in close partnership with families". Again, Epiphany finds itself on the forefront of a growing educational movement - in this case, the move towards smaller schools. Nationwide, schools are replicating this model. The Epiphany model specifically is also being replicated around the country, with schools as nearby as Lawrence, MA and as far away as Tucsan, AZ
back to top
What does it mean that Epiphany is a school "that never gives up on a child?"
It means that Epiphany does not use expulsion as part of its regular disciplinary discussions and, unless a student threatens the safety of others, there is almost no way students will be kicked out of Epiphany. It means that students may be required to participate in individualize programs for much of the day and/or work with a tutor; they may be required to attend therapy sessions or may be removed from the afternoon program; their parents may have to meet with the Principal again and again; and, they may be suspended repeatedly-but they will never be expelled unless they are a threat to their own safety or that of others.
back to top
What happens to Epiphany students after they graduate?
Many fine young people have graduated from Epiphany School, going on to a diverse array of high schools and colleges. Approximately 1/3 of our graduates attend private school (boarding and day), approximately 1/3 attend local parochial schools, and approximately 1/3 attend charter schools. Much work and consideration goes into ensuring that all students are able to attend high schools that are appropriate for their further learning and development. Epiphany provides a limited amount of last-dollar scholarships to ensure students have access to schools where they can continue to flourish. Many graduates return to Epiphany regularly to use the school's facilities and to study in the assembly hall in the evenings. Graduates serve as counselors in Epiphany's Summer Intensive program and tutor students during the regular school year. Epiphany employs two full-time Directors of Graduate Support who work closely with the graduates to ensure their success in high school.
back to top
What does it mean that Epiphany is an independent school?
As an independent school, Epiphany has tremendous flexibility in serving students, ensuring that each child receives the programming that will best ensure his or her learning and development. It also means that we receive almost no federal, state, or local funding; Epiphany relies on private, foundation, and corporate support.
back to top
What does it mean that Epiphany is a religious school?
Epiphany admits students of all faiths. In fact, historically, less than 5% of the students have been Episcopalians at any one time, and we currently enroll students who are Roman Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, and others whose families do not participate in any organized religion. Epiphany does not proselytize, but the school does bear witness to the idea that we find God in and through each other. Epiphany is about action inspired by faith. We believe that every child is sacred, and that every child has a soul. We try to make sure that all children receive the services and support they need and that all children realize their full potential to lead and support those around them.
back to top
What role does the Episcopal Church play in the school?
Epiphany is an independent school and is not funded or controlled by the Diocese; however, we receive financial support from churches, outreach groups, and individual parishioners in the Boston area and surrounding communities. We are fortunate that many of our volunteers come from area churches to donate their time by serving food and tutoring. We have daily prayer and a weekly church service. Participation by students in the latter is generally encouraged, but alternative programming is available for students whose families chose for them not to participate. In addition, students take a religion class.
back to top
How does the cost-per-student at Epiphany compare to the cost-per-student in the Boston Public Schools?
An apples-to-apples comparison is difficult, if not impossible, given the extensive nature of Epiphany's offerings (12 hour school days; 3 meals daily; full-service programming). With our after-school and summer programs, Epiphany offers far more to its students than public schools are able to. Epiphany has many volunteers, which is probably something that couldn't be replicated in the public schools, and of course there are also questions around economies of scale. At $20,000 a student, Epiphany is undoubtedly more expensive than Boston Public School, estimates of which range from $9-13,000, but a true comparison would also have to include costs of social work, afterschool activities, and summer programming. If you are interested in learning more, please contact us at info@epiphanyschool.com.
back to top
What can I do to help?
In order to exist as an independent, tuition-free school, Epiphany depends on the loyal support of so many individuals. Please consider giving what you can. Epiphany is an approved 501(c)3 organization and therefore all donations are fully tax deductible. The school is prepared to receive stock gifts. This is an attractive option for potential donors who currently hold long-term appreciated securities. We would also welcome the opportunity to discuss how, if appropriate, Epiphany might fit into your Estate planning. For any questions on how to best donate to Epiphany, please contact the Development Office at 617-326-0425 x203.
Epiphany also depends on the loyal support of its volunteers. Volunteers are needed to help tutor students, work in the kitchen, and contribute to the various teams and committees that make the school work. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, please e-mail us at info@epiphanyschool.com.
