An Uncommon Education: The Allen School

First Unitarian Universalist Society in Newton presents An Uncommon Education: The Allen School, a 40-minute documentary film that highlights the educators, students, and legacy of the West Newton English and Classical School, better known as the Allen School (1854-1900). Founded in 1854 by local Unitarians, educators, and reformers Nathaniel T. Allen and Cyrus Peirce, the Allen School was a remarkable fifty-year experiment in progressive education. From coeducation and racial integration to physical education and learning through play, the school pioneered new ways of teaching and learning in the United States. The Allen School was located on the site where FUUSN now stands.

Produced by Historic Newton, this documentary describes foundational events in the early life of our historic congregation, now celebration our 175th anniversary. A panel discussion with these distinguished guests will follow the film: Katy Haywood – Myrtle Baptist Church Community Historian, Sara Goldberg – Historic Newton Curator of Manuscripts and Photographs, Lisa Dady – Historic Newton Executive Director, Joe Hunter – Producer of An Uncommon Education, and Bob Ellertsen – Moderator and FUUSN member.

Free and Open to the Public