Walker is a multi service agency that serves children and youth from ages 3-22.
Our Needham campus has a therapuetic day school for children ages 5-14, we have a ICBAT(hospital diversion) for children 3-13, a residential program, group home, after school and respite services. Walker has a highschool located in Watertown, MA, called Beacon High School which serves youth that are 14-22.
Walker Partnerships works in over 60 school districts thoughout the commonwealth to build capacity in the public schools, provide consultation and evaluation as well as provide services to prevent out of district placements.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Inquire with school
- Enrollment: 86 students
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 10 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Inquire with school
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Many LD related issues
Year Founded
1962
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
86 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
54%
State avg.: 29%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
15 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Rates are authorized by OSD for both day and residential services
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Associate
Shannon Lee
School Notes
- Walker is a multi service agency that serves children and youth from ages 3-22.
- Our Needham campus has a therapuetic day school for children ages 5-14, we have a ICBAT(hospital diversion) for children 3-13, a residential program, group home, after school and respite services.
- Walker has a highschool located in Watertown, MA, called Beacon High School which serves youth that are 14-22.
- Walker Partnerships works in over 60 school districts thoughout the commonwealth to build capacity in the public schools, provide consultation and evaluation as well as provide services to prevent out of district placements.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate of Walker School?
The acceptance rate of Walker School is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 70%.
When is the application deadline for Walker School?
The application deadline for Walker School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 12/13/2024
My son has been at Walker for just over a year now. We had a rough road in public education because he's a very active 7-year-old with a busy, creative mind. He was not built to sit at a desk and listen to lectures for 8 hours a day; it just wasn't going to happen. Our school district dragged its feet for a long while because out-of-district placements are costly, but the transfer has been absolutely transformational. My son has grown so much both as a student and as a maturing, empathic little human. Walker staff are consistently amazing, deeply caring, and highly trained professionals. They truly love their students; regardless of whether they come from a loving home or are living on campus, they're all treated with equal respect and kindness. It's a school that not only has a gorgeous campus but also a very caring, compassionate community. If your child has big feelings and equally big behaviors, this is an extraordinary school, and you should consider it carefully.
5 5/3/2018
I went to Walker in Needham Ma., & graduated in the 1984/85 school year. I was not someone who liked school at all. Even at that young age I had a jaded view from previous schools, be it the disinterested teachers, down to social aspects with students. Walker was the only school I had, (& have ever), attended where I actually enjoyed my time in school, & finally even took advantage of learning. The fact that when I'd started I had suffered from social anxiety, depression, & yes, suicidal thoughts, (something which I'd kept hidden), yet after a very short time I realized that I was somewhere I liked, enjoyed, felt comfortable, & was happy, My time at Walker was short, only one year, but it was the best school year ever. I had even kept in touch with a few of my friends that I'd made there for a number of years after. Looking back, I wish that I'd been able to keep in contact with a few others whom I'd befriended, students & staff alike. I was sort of wondering if there was a way to find some of those people, or if there's some sort of Alumni program set up for this sort of thing. All in all, 23 years after, Walker is the only school I'd bother to give a review, & with the highest praise possible. I doubt I'd still be here today if it weren't for Walker, so I say Thank you, for existing & continuing on, helping all those whom you've helped, & will help for a long time to come.
Endorse Walker School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Expelled for Smoking Pot: What Parents Need to Know
We explore the consequences of marijuana use in private schools, discussing expulsion policies, legal implications, and impacts on college admissions. This Q&A format article provides insights for parents navigating disciplinary actions and offers advice on prevention and support for students.
U.S. Private Schools: A Guide for International Students
Dive into the nitty-gritty of attending U.S. private schools as an international student. From tackling the admissions maze to conquering the TOEFL, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through visa hurdles, financial realities, and even virtual campus tours. Buckle up for an insider's look at making your American education dreams a reality!
Early Childhood Education: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.