“Opened in 1932” says the cornerstone of the Thomas A. Edison Middle School. It stands as a testament to education in this community. The Thomas A. Edison Middle School opened its doors just one year after the death of its namesake. Thomas Edison the world-famous inventor, left behind a legacy of innovation.
The first graduating class of the Thomas A. Edison Middle School walked across the stage in 1933. Imagine the pride and excitement of those first students. They were embarking on their futures with an education earned within these walls.
Did you know that the street in front of the Thomas A. Edison Middle School has a story? It was originally a continuation of Kenrick Street. But after the school was built, it was renamed.
The Thomas A. Edison Middle School street name might be linked to Thomas and Mina Edison’s Glenmont Estate. This estate could have been named after the street where Edison grew up.
Times change and schools evolve. Declining enrollment led to a merger. The Boston School Committee decided to combine the Thomas A. Edison Middle School with Garfield Elementary School and Hamilton Elementary School.
In September 2009, the new Edison K8 School opened. It was located in the former Thomas A. Edison Middle School facility. This merger created a new educational opportunity for the community.
Today the Edison K8 School serves over 700 students. These students come from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade in the Boston Public Schools.
The merger aimed to address fiscal challenges and under-performing schools. Garfield and Hamilton Elementary Schools, both located in Brighton, had enrollments of less than 200 students. They closed in June 2009. Their students and staff were welcomed to join the Thomas A. Edison Middle School.
Teachers administrators and parents from all three schools began meeting in early 2009. They planned for the merger. Everyone agreed that a K-8 community offered many advantages. The success of the merger depended on everyone working together.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra even partnered with the school. They offered to make it the BSO Academy School. The vision included an integrated music-centered curriculum. All students would have opportunities for vocal and instrumental instruction. The community would enjoy professional performances arranged by the BSO.
The Edison K8 School opened with approximately 750 students. The student body includes students with special needs and English Language learners. Students and families come from over 60 different countries. They speak more than 20 languages. The Thomas A. Edison Middle School is a diverse and vibrant community.
The Thomas A. Edison Middle School continues to evolve. It embraces technology and encourages student success. You can even follow them on Instagram and Twitter. They share announcements photos and events with their families and friends. The Thomas A. Edison Middle School is a place of learning growth and community.