Community - Brooks School: Coeducational Private School in North Andover, MA

Where Belonging Comes Naturally

“We're not one of those schools where you walk around, keep your head down,” Head of School John Packard tells new students at the start of each school year.

"We are a school that says ‘hello’ to one another … We take advantage, by virtue of our size and the layout of the campus, to really know one another."

Campus is more than a beautiful setting. It's a place designed for connection.

At its core lies the pedestrian Main Street, the spine of the community, where kindness radiates and every “hello” fosters a sense of belonging.

Where Community Thrives

While Brooks enjoys a pastoral setting on the banks of Lake Cochichewick, it's anything but sleepy.

The active campus remains bustling at all hours of the day and into the night as students from all over the United States, and the world, come together as one community.

More Than Just a School Day

Day students join boarders for all the activities offered on campus — and there are many. During the week, students bustle from classes to afternoon activities. On weekends, they enjoy trips to restaurants, movies and gather at campus events.

The Middle of Everywhere

In the last five years, Brooks has enrolled students hailing from 31 states and 23 countries. In a single dorm, you might find a new student from Germany, Hong Kong or Japan, or a returning classmate from California, Texas or Wisconsin.

Fun for Everyone — Together

Students about to graduate and those who just arrived come together not just in classes and sports but for community events, as well. Think foam dances, paint nights, concerts and calzones at the Head of School's house.

Find Your Place angled-img at Brooks

With nine affinity groups on campus, including the Black Student Union, Asian Student Alliance and Women Supporting Women, plus 30+ clubs, there’s always a place to find your place at Brooks.

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The whole student body gathers twice weekly for Chapel talks, as well as weekly all-school or advisory meetings and seated lunches specifically designed to foster making new connections.

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There’s always something to show up for when the (school) work is done. Our theater group puts on three annual productions that always pack the house and weekend activities are the place to be.

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The image depicts a theatrical performance, with several actors on stage in period costumes. The foreground features a man and a woman engaged in a dance, while the background includes additional performers and a colorful, ornate stage setting.

Take it from a student

"When I started here, I was quietly unsure of the community ... not openly, just to myself," Senior Prefect Lydia Tangney '25 admitted in a Chapel speech she gave, offering her experience and advice to new students. "I found every excuse not to like it. It was different than public school and hard to fit in, completely outside of my comfort zone. I didn't believe that you could do anything here, try anything, and trust the people around you.

But I learned and I see it now.

If you don't see a club you want to be a part of, start one. Brooks will find a way. Want to try out for a sport you've never played? Do it. Brooks will include you. Don't see a class or a subject you want to study? Tell someone and people here will make it happen."