City As School

Established in 1972, City As School is not your typical high school. It’s one of the oldest alternative public high schools in the US. Located in Manhattan’s West Village, City As School was the brainchild of Frederick J. Koury and Rick Safran. They envisioned a school where New York City itself became the classroom. Their innovative proposal, approved by the Board of Education, earned them grants from the Ford Foundation. City As School opened its doors to a small group of just ten seniors in 1973. To reach students who were at risk of dropping out, they advertised on WABC radio. This unconventional approach worked. Their first graduating class grew to 61 students. City As School’s unique approach to education focuses on internships. Students are required to register for an internship every cycle, which is half the length of a regular semester. With over 500 internship partnerships across diverse fields, the city truly becomes their classroom. Imagine learning about marketing at a bustling advertising agency or about history while interning at a museum. This hands-on approach re-engages students with their education and empowers them with real-world skills. Graduation isn’t just about exams. Students at City As School present a portfolio of their work to a panel of adults and peers, showcasing the knowledge and experience they’ve gained. Admission to City As School is selective. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, have earned a minimum of 16 high school credits, and undergo a personal interview. This ensures that students are ready to embrace the school’s unique learning style. City As School isn’t just one building. While its main campus is in Greenwich Village, there are satellite locations in the Bronx and Brooklyn. This extends the reach of this innovative approach to education, offering opportunities to students across the city. City As School’s alumni list boasts a diverse range of accomplished individuals, including artists, musicians, actors, and activists. This is a testament to the school’s success in nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning. From its unconventional beginnings to its impactful present, City As School continues to redefine what education can be.