There are 86 schools in Boston serving the middle grades.

We want to be in all of them.

Our framework for growth.

To accomplish this, we developed a dynamic framework for growth that involves supporting schools as they build capacity to implement career and academic planning own their own. In short, we hope to work ourselves out of a job. Our framework is structured into 5 distinct phases:

  • Laying the foundation for scalable growth, this phase focuses on refining program delivery, strengthening partnerships, and mapping key resources to ensure long-term sustainability.

    Target Engagement: 15 Schools

  • Building on early successes, we will expand our reach while One Bead’s deepening impact, leveraging insights from initial partnerships to refine programming and operational strategies.

    Target Engagement: 25 Schools

  • Scaling up to meet increasing demand, this phase prioritizes efficiency, strategic funding, and expanding the network of industry partners to enhance career exploration opportunities.

    Target Engagement: 40 Schools

  • With a strong foundation in place, One Bead accelerates its reach, embedding programming across Boston while strengthening systems to support long-term impact and growth.

    Target Engagement: 65 Schools

  • At full scale, One Bead transitions from rapid expansion to sustainability, ensuring ongoing program quality, financial stability, and lasting institutional partnerships.

    Target Engagement: 65 Schools

Why it will work.

Adaptability

Our partnership model adapts to meet schools where they are. We provide tailored support based on each school’s infrastructure and capacity.

Alignment

Our model is deeply connected to Boston’s career and academic planning ecosystem. By working closely with BPS and other partners, we ensure our programming aligns with broader educational and workforce development goals.

Cost

By balancing expansion with sustainability, we keep the cost per student low ($200) without compromising quality.

Community

Growth doesn’t happen in isolation—our network of 200+ professionals in Boston is a key driver of our success. When we need expertise, mentorship, or resources, we know we can turn to our community for support.

What will change.

  • Participation in the high school choice process will increase–meaning more families are taking an active role in academic planning.

  • Relationships between schools and their surrounding communities will become stronger.

  • Student engagement on Naviance will increase–signaling improved digital equity.

  • Teacher capacity to facilitate conversations around career and academic planning will increase.

  • Attendance will improve as students enroll in schools and programs that match their skills and interests

We can’t do it alone.

In addition to financial support we are looking to build an advisory board of individuals who have experience with capacity building, strategic planning, fundraising, and scaling. If that’s you, send us a message.