LION Charter School

LION Charter School, formerly known as Leaders In Our Neighborhood, is a tuition-free public K-12 charter school located in the Hunts Point area of the South Bronx in New York City. It is recognized as the largest independent K-12 charter school in New York City.

Mission

LION Charter School's mission is centered around character development and fostering academic excellence. The school emphasizes passion for learning, self-discovery, leadership, and social conscience as core values for success in college and fulfillment in life. It aims to unite students, families, and staff to support each individual in achieving their academic potential as well as in sports, arts, and community service.

Pillars

The school is guided by its foundational pillars, which include:

• Character: Emphasizing self-reflection and holistic development.
• Leadership: Encouraging students to serve as leaders in partnership with faculty.
• Social Justice: Addressing global challenges through education.
• Curiosity: Piquing students' interest in learning.
• Family: Fostering strong family-school partnerships.
• Community: Engaging in local community service and partnerships.

Academic Structure

LION Charter School is divided into three main academic levels:

Elementary School (K-3)

• Focuses on rigorous curriculum and skills-based social-emotional programs.
• Encourages students to discover their identities and make a difference in their community.

Middle School (4-8)

• Develops skills necessary for high school success through culturally relevant learning experiences.
• Cultivates strong relationships within the learning community.

High School (9-12)

• Offers rigorous academic courses, varsity athletics, and community service opportunities.
• Prepares students for college through an integrated college-preparatory process that includes family partnerships.

Community Impact

LION Charter School has nearly 100% students of color and maintains a strong commitment to the Hunts Point community. The school's community-driven approach includes family engagement programs and partnerships with local organizations to support the needs of families and the broader community.

Educational Outcomes

Notably, LION Charter School has achieved significant success in preparing its graduates for higher education. 95% of its Class of 2023 graduates applied to and were accepted into college, with 91% enrolling in college within the first two years after graduation—a rate that exceeds national averages for similar demographics. Additionally, LION alumni earn bachelor's degrees at nearly three times the national average for students from similar backgrounds.

Financial Support

Since 2006, LION Charter School has received significant financial support from individuals and organizations, totaling over $2.9 million in donations. These contributions play a crucial role in enabling the school to fulfill its mission.