Is the word escola the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes

The spelling, meaning, and grammar of "escola" are identical in both Brazilian and Continental Portuguese. The only difference is pronunciation:

• Brazilian Portuguese: The pronunciation is more "open." The vowels are articulated clearly, and the unstressed "e" is usually pronounced as a bright [e] or [i].
• Continental Portuguese: The pronunciation is more "closed." Unstressed vowels are often reduced or "swallowed," meaning the "e" may sound like a very short, almost silent [ɨ].

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. Eu vou para a escola de ônibus. (I go to school by bus.)
2. As crianças estão estudando na escola. (The children are studying at school.)
3. A escola dele é muito longe. (His school is very far.)
4. Preciso comprar material escolar. (I need to buy school supplies.)
5. A escola começa às sete da manhã. (School starts at seven in the morning.)

Continental Portuguese Examples

1. Eu vou para a escola de autocarro. (I go to school by bus.)
2. As crianças estão a estudar na escola. (The children are studying at school.)
3. A escola dele é muito longe. (His school is very far.)
4. Preciso comprar material escolar. (I need to buy school supplies.)
5. A escola começa às sete da manhã. (School starts at seven in the morning.)