Great thinkers and educators have left their imprint on central Merrimack Valley since its settlement. The area benefited from its proximity to Cambridge/Boston then, just as it draws today on the brainpower emanating from the likes of Harvard, M.I.T Boston University, Tufts and more-the highest concentration of educational institutions anywhere in the world.

The result of this historic concentration of educational activity has been a community-wide commitment to educational excellence at all age levels whether public , private or parochial, considered among the best in the state. From pre-school through elementary, middle, high school, and a regional vocational technical high school, the area's students benefit from some of the finest resources available. Teachers, libraries, art offerings, special programs, athletics (which attract spirited community support) - all reflect the highest standards of quality in education.

Additionally, there is a mutually rewarding partnership between local businesses, public schools, the Chamber of Commerce to actively shape tomorrow's workforce.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Our highly reputable private schools attract students both
locally and internationally, These include: Phillips Academy, the internationally renowned college preparatory school; The Brooks School, a very highly regarded college preparatory school; The Pike School, educating bright youngsters from pre-kindergarten through ninth grade; and religiously affiliated high schools including Central Catholic High.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Three fine institutions of higher learning grace the community. Merrimack College, founded by the Augustinian Father, offers liberal arts and business degree programs for both day and evening students on a scenic 220-acre campus. Massachusetts School of Law provides a quality legal education from its campus in Andover. And Northern Essex Community College offers a wide variety of liberal arts and professionally focused certificate and degree programs to meet the needs of students of all ages.