Central to the philosophy of The Brentwood School is the belief that every individual can learn. We offer a broad curriculum content is challenging and goal-oriented, and applicable to students’ post secondary goals and opportunities. Students work toward individualized goals to achieve personal/social growth, academic learning, and career development. We believe that school should be a place that students look forward to attending; a place where each student is challenged to think and be resourceful; a place in which both intellect and character are nurtured. All our students are valued members of our community.

As important as academic achievement is, it is not the only measure of success.  Our high standards go beyond report card grades. We promote character by fostering a sense of community in which each member is valued and respected; a community built upon individual responsibility and accountability. Our goal is to light the spark of curiosity, creativity and compassion that will enable each student to successfully meet the challenge and the promise of their future. 

The Brentwood School was established in 1980 by the Southeastern Regional Education Service Center (SERESC). The school is designed to meet the needs of learning and emotionally challenged students. The Brentwood School offers a regular high school diploma requiring 20 credits, and is approved as a Special Education Facility and a Private School by

the New Hampshire Department of Education.

Admissions Information

The Brentwood School accepts students who have been referred by their school districts. SERESC member school districts include the towns of Auburn, Bedford, Candia, Hampstead, Hooksett, Hudson, Litchfield, Londonderry, Merrimack, Pelham, Timberlane, and Windham. Students from non-member school districts are considered when space is available. The following criteria are used to determine appropriateness of a placement at the Brentwood School:

· The student must be between the ages of 14-21 and enrolled in grades 9-12.

· The student must be identified with a serious emotional disturbance, learning disability and/or other health impairment.

· The student must be safe from presenting a serious physical threat to self and/or others.

· The student must demonstrate average or above average intellectual potential.

· The student must be supported by parents, educational surrogate parents or social agency representatives who will cooperate with the school to meet the individual needs of the student.

Referral Process

After a student is referred by his/her district for consideration of placement at The Brentwood School, an interview will be scheduled with the student, parent (or representative) and the LEA. This interview will take place at The Brentwood School and will be conducted by a Counselor and/or the Principal. If the initial determination is made that the student might benefit from the services of The Brentwood School, he/she will be scheduled for a Full Day Visit. The student will spend a day attending classes and interacting with Faculty and peers. Teachers and Counselors will provide insight as to the appropriateness of the student for the program and the ability of The Brentwood School to meet the needs of the student as outlined in the current Individual Education Plan. If accepted, the student’s team will meet and the student will be placed on a thirty day probationary period. At the end of that time, the Special Education Team will re-convene to determine if the student’s needs are best being met at The Brentwood School. Additional meetings are held throughout the academic year as we believe that communications between school, student, family, and support agencies that are consistent and on-going improve student learning.