bright bold next campaign
The goal of the Innovation iniative of the campaign is to support both student and faculty creativity by bringing bold ideas alive that expand future-focused learning opportunities, through a permanent Innovation Endowment that accelerates innovation initiatives.
empowering our community to Move From Idea to Impact
Innovation at BB&N is both a responsibility and an opportunity. In a place like Cambridge, surrounded by leading ideas, research, and institutions, we have a unique chance to think differently about how students learn and how schools evolve.
It is not a standalone initiative. Innovation at BB&N is embedded in how we teach, collaborate, and grow. Through faculty-driven work, student-led initiatives, and opportunities to engage with ideas shaping the future, our community is constantly exploring what is possible in education.
This work prepares students not just to keep up with a changing world, but to actively shape it, developing the curiosity, confidence, and adaptability to engage with complex challenges and new ideas.
| INNOVATION GRANTS | VISITING INNOVATORS | EDUCATOR PREPARATION PROGRAMS | ANNUAL TEACHING & LEARNING CONFERENCES |
| Provide funding and support for educators and students to develop and implement innovative projects and curricula within their classrooms and across the community. | Bring leading experts and thought leaders to BB&N to share cutting-edge ideas, technologies, and practices with our community. | Focus on attracting, nurturing, and retaining talented educators, equipping them with the skills to drive future innovation in learning. | Host a yearly event dedicated to exploring new trends in education, fostering collaboration, and showcasing innovative teaching methods. |
pillars of innovation in action
Innovation has been essential to BB&N’s storied past and now serves as a guiding framework for its future. First awarded in Spring 2022, BB&N’s Innovation Grants empower faculty, staff, and students to pursue bold ideas that aim to disrupt, evolve, or enhance existing teaching and learning practices. A structured program plan guides the grant process, from proposal to implementation, ensuring clarity and support for each project.
Grant-supported initiatives span a wide range of interests and disciplines and continue to fuel creative thinking, student engagement, and collaborative problem-solving—strengthening the BB&N community while shaping the future of education.
pillars of innovation in action
The Visiting Innovators Program was established in 2023 by parents in the Class of 2023 through their Senior Parents Gift.
2025/2026: Eric Hudson is a facilitator and strategic advisor who supports schools in making sense of what’s changing in education. Eric’s primary objective is to promote AI literacy across the BB&N community. Learn more about Eric’s work with BB&N.
2024/2025: Rob “ProBlak” Gibbs is a visual artist, organizer, and community builder who has transformed the cultural landscape of Boston through his powerful art and commitment to youth education.
2023/2024: Dr. Liza Talusan is an educator, facilitator, and strategic change partner for organizations, corporations, leadership teams, schools, and individuals who are looking to build their skills in areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and leadership. She leads with compassion and connection, even when conversations are difficult and challenging.
pillars of innovation in action
BB&N’s Teaching & Learning Conferences are professional gatherings where educators share ideas, explore educational practices, and connect with others to support different areas of teaching and learning.
2025/2026: The AI Exchange: A Sharing of Practices Among Educators
2024/2025: Human-Centered AI in Education: Insights, Discussions, and Hands-On Applications with Eric Hudson
2023/2024: Depolarizing Our Classrooms and School Communities
2022/2023: AI in K-12 Education
pillars of innovation in action
Educator Preparation Programs at BB&N encompass 3 pipeline opportunities:
The Bright Bold Next Campaign is a transformative investment that will elevate the student experience from pre-K through grade 12. This campaign will ensure our students are equipped with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in a changing world. Your support brings transformative programs and spaces to life.
Financial aid ensures talented, curious, mission-aligned students can attend BB&N regardless of financial circumstance. Our community of students with diverse backgrounds & perspectives cultivates deeper learning. Your support expands access while strengthening the experience for every student.
The Lower School renovation provides our youngest students with a modern learning environment, designed entirely through the lens of pedagogy. Your support will ensure our spaces align with how students learn today.
The BB&N Fund is the most vital source of flexible support, closing the gap between tuition and the true cost of a BB&N education. Your support sustains exceptional faculty, classroom resources, and critical programs that impact every student.
Thanks to early donor support, the Grove Street Athletic Campus is fully operational, improving daily life for student-athletes and strengthening school spirit. Continued support expands its impact for the entire BB&N and Watertown public community.
The Bright Bold Next Campaign reinforces our commitment to elevating student experience, creating inspiring spaces, expanding opportunities, and driving innovation. We continue to move forward in the public phase of our fundraising.