Manhattan Charter School

Manhattan Charter School is a public charter school in the Lower East Side of New York City. It operates two schools: an elementary school providing education for grades K-5 and a middle school for grades 6.

History

Founded in 2005, Manhattan Charter School I is the elementary component, emphasizing a holistic learning approach that includes daily music lessons and French classes several times a week. This curriculum aims to enhance cognitive development and cultural awareness among its students.

Academic Program

• Music Program: Emphasizes singing and rhythm in early grades, with some students participating in a Louisiana-style brass band by the fifth grade.
• Language Program: Offers French language classes, highlighting the benefits of foreign language learning on overall academic performance.
• Class Size: Maintains an intimate class size with no more than 25 students per class to ensure personalized attention.

Student Body and Diversity

• Student Enrollment: Approximately 179 students in the elementary school.
• Diversity: The school is recognized for its high degree of racial and economic diversity, with a diverse student body that reflects the multicultural fabric of New York City.
• Free or Reduced Lunch: A significant percentage of students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs, indicating a commitment to serving economically diverse families.

Educational Philosophy

Manhattan Charter School prioritizes creating a supportive learning environment that fosters academic success and personal growth. It emphasizes the use of technology to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world.

Facilities and Operations

The school operates within a shared building, managing resources effectively despite limited storage space. It offers an extended school day with an in-class breakfast and a longer school year, aiming to maximize learning opportunities for its students.

Admissions

Admission to Manhattan Charter School is by lottery, primarily targeting students residing in District 1. New students are not accepted in grades 4 and 5, reflecting the commitment to maintaining continuity in its educational programs.

Reception

Parents and students view Manhattan Charter School favorably, appreciating its unique academic offerings and supportive staff. The school's focus on music and language education is particularly well-regarded by the community.