bright bold next campaign

Lower School Renovation

The goal of the lower school renovation initiative of the campaign is to align our learning spaces with our pedagogical approach to enhance every aspect of the educational experience for our youngest learners.

spaces that inspire

Designed for Learning, Built for Community

At the heart of the Lower School renovation is a simple idea: the way students learn has changed, and our spaces need to support that. Our classrooms are active, collaborative, and flexible. Students work independently, in small groups, and across disciplines. Teachers design lessons that connect subjects and encourage students to engage with ideas in different ways.

The renovation is an opportunity to align our physical environment with the way teaching and learning actually happen at BB&N, while preserving the close-knit, nurturing feel that defines our Lower School experience.

  • Expanded Classrooms: Larger, flexible spaces will support small group work, collaboration, and active learning.
  • Connected Learning Spaces: Shared areas between classrooms will make cross-grade and interdisciplinary learning more seamless.
  • Outdoor Learning: Enhanced outdoor spaces will create more opportunities to bring learning beyond the classroom.
  • A Central Dining Space: A new dining area will bring students and faculty together, strengthening daily community.
  • Accessible by Design: The campus will be fully accessible for all students, families, and visitors.
  • Spaces to Gather: Updated areas for assemblies and events will support connection and community.

Building What’s Next

Education has changed and we need to have a spacious & flexible campus that gives students the freedom to be bold, creative, and collaborative.


As parents of three children who started in the Lower School, we are particularly excited about the Lower School Renovation project and how it transforms spaces for teaching and learning on that campus.


Having [interdisciplinary spaces] will make collaboration between teachers much more natural and create a real hub of creativity and innovation for students. Places where science, technology, art, and design can all come together—that’s where ideas can come to life.


As teachers, we want the flexibility to work with students in many different ways. More space would allow us to break into small groups, collaborate, and teach in ways that truly support how students learn best.

As a science teacher next to art teachers, the proximity will be transformative for our interdisciplinary work.

We value so many things about the education our children are receiving at BB&N’s lower school. One aspect that stands out is the emphasis on educating the whole person – children who are taught to care, have empathy, and develop curiosity about their world. An investment in our lower school supports this uniquely positive community and learning environment for all children.

Explore the campaign and join us in building what’s next

Overview

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

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.

Innovation

Innovation is a core part of BB&N culture. It allows students & faculty to explore new ideas and create meaningful work beyond the classroom. Your support fuels programs that turn ideas into impact. An investment in innovation is an investment in what is possible for our students and the future of learning.

BB&N Fund

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.

Grove Street Campus

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.

Our Progress to Date

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.