How about a story about a school that reflects the diversity of New York City? I am talking about East Side Community High School. This public school is located in Manhattan’s East Village. It serves students from the 6th to 12th grade. East Side Community High School was founded in 1991.
East Side Community High School is more than just a place of learning. It is a community hub. It is a place where students develop into well-rounded individuals. The school has a college-preparatory curriculum for grades 6-12. This ensures that students are ready for college.
East Side Community High School is known for its commitment to each student. Its advisory system ensures regular communication with families. This makes sure that no student is overlooked. Students at East Side Community High School create graduation portfolios. They present their work to committees. This rigorous process must be completed to graduate. Students complete performance-based tasks. They write college-level history papers. They design science experiments.
East Side Community High School values arts. All students take a studio arts class every year. The school celebrates artwork and performance arts. These are highlighted in the art gallery, assemblies, and special performances. East Side Community High School has an independent reading and literacy program. This program is emulated across the city, state, and country.
East Side Community High School values students’ social-emotional well-being. The school has a large counseling department. They offer various student and family support services. The College Bound program provides personalized college counseling. It offers awareness and preparation to each student in grades 6-12. Over 90% of high school graduates attend college.
East Side Community High School has small class sizes. They average 18-24 students. The school has an 8 to 1 adult to student ratio. East Side Community High School is a collaborative professional learning community. Teachers receive professional development and support.
East Side Community High School has a strong teaching staff. The school handpicks and screens its teachers. East Side Community High School is a New York University partner school. It is a Columbia University mentor school. It is a Facing History in Ourselves model school. East Side Community High School offers extra-curricular programs. These include academic, arts, athletics, service, and social activities. These are available after school and on Saturdays.
East Side Community High School has been recognized as one of the city’s best public schools. It was mentioned in the books Public Middle Schools: New York City’s Best and New York City’s Best Public High Schools: A Parent’s Guide by Clara Hemphill. East Side Community High School students were involved in the Living Memorial Project. They worked with Open Road and Cornell University. Together, they created Open Road Park. This park serves as a memorial to the lives lost on 9/11.