Who We Are
BART is a tuition-free, college prep charter school serving grades 6-12 in Berkshire County.
Our Mission
The Berkshire Arts & Technology Charter Public School (BART) prepares students for college by promoting mastery of academic skills and content through the integration of the arts and technology in core subjects. The school provides middle and high school students in northern Berkshire County with an educational community that regards everyone, including teachers and parents, as lifelong learners.
Our Belief
“Excellence is a habit.” Aristotle
This quote goes to the core of what BART believes: every child can excel and go to college. Our purpose is to facilitate excellence and achievement through effort in a supportive and vibrant academic environment. We instill children with the lifelong habits of working hard, cultivating their skills, and earning their success every step of the way.
Our Program
BART teaches a classic college preparatory curriculum, supported by the creative and technological skills that are necessary to successfully navigate and be valued in today’s world. Learn more about BART’s Academics and Arts & Technology programs.
Our History
Founded in 2004 as a school designed to meet the needs of a new economy, BART’s history is one of not accepting the status quo. It is one of tenacity and effort triumphing over disadvantages or demographics. It is an American story: Abe Lincoln’s story… Adams-born Susan B. Anthony’s story… and the story behind every BART student’s success.
Our Success
While only 20% of BART graduates have a parent who graduated from college, 100% of all BART graduates have been accepted into college. In Berkshire County, BART is the top school for raising student achievement. In Massachusetts, we’re ranked in the top 5% for raising achievement in English, and in the top 6% for math. * Read more about our results.
BART recently received a citation from the Massachusetts Senate for being recognized by US DOE-funded program EPIC for accomplishing breakthrough student achievement gains.
BART does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, ancestry, athletic performance, special needs, proficiency in the English language or other language, or prior academic achievement. If any applicant feels s/he has been discriminated against in the application process, s/he should contact either Ben Klompus, Principal, at 413-743-7311 x121 or Julia Bowen, Executive Director, at 413-743-7311 x120.
* Based on the Spring 2011 MCAS exams.
