2017-2018 Blackboard Award Honoree: Principal Janet C. Rotter

Outstanding Principal

The Studio School
Principal: Janet C. Rotter
Preschool through Middle School
117 West 95th Street
studioschoolnyc.org

Describe your school’s core educational philosophy.

The Studio School educates the hearts and minds of children as we nurture the unfolding of their authentic spirit and character. Central to our philosophy is the knowledge that intellectual vigor and creativity must be firmly rooted in emotional balance and resilience. These roots need careful nurturing in the earliest stages of a child’s life and education, allowing time and room to grow strong and spread wide.

Tell us about a few of the school’s achievements or distinguishing programs.

The Studio School is one of two New York City schools to be named in the 50 Best Private Elementary Schools in the nation by The Best Schools. We have designed the following unique classes: In our interdisciplinary One World classes, science, social science, history, and geography are presented through a varied curriculum. Students learn unifying concepts to more fully understand how everything in our world is connected. Our Kitchen Science program was featured on ABC’s “The Chew.” Along with culinary arts, students learn nutrition, the cultural origin of dishes, how foods are grown, how to convert measurements in recipes, and the chemical properties of food. Tutorial, a weekly class for elementary and middle school students, addresses the importance of character, as well as intellect, and sharpens students’ critical, analytical, and abstract thinking skills.

What’s new?

Emotional-social education is taking its place as a significant and essential criterion in the academic success of students, and their ability to be original thinkers, as well as their well-being. The Studio School has cultivated ways of demonstrating this through its innovative curriculum and our practices and approach are now being recognized through research and workshops around the world.

What do you love about your school?

I love the art and science of teaching and learning, and the excitement of the process that I share with the children, their teachers, and parents each day. Knowing how important the entire community is to the quality and success of a school, and ours is continually energized by the meaningful connections made between students, parents, teachers, and staff. I am proud to see our students graduate as self-motivated people who exceed all standards set for them and demonstrate that how they live their lives is the essence of what they have learned.

The Cathedral School

<p>The Cathedral School is a Nursery School, Pre-K 4, and Kindergarten through 5th grade co- educational day school that offers a nurturing environment while preparing young minds for a rigorous academic education rooted in the principles of Hellenism. The curriculum integrates the most up to date educational methods while adhering to the ancient Greek tradition of paideia which views education as character formation, responsibility and the pursuit of excellence in all forms.</p>

Amazing Explorers Academy Williamsburg

<p>Welcome to Amazing Explorers Academy, a premier STEAM-based preschool dedicated to fostering a love of learning and exploration in children aged 0 to 5. Our innovative and dynamic programs provide a nurturing environment where young minds can thrive and develop essential skills that will shape their future.</p> <p>At Amazing Explorers Academy, we embrace the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) approach, integrating these disciplines into our comprehensive curriculum. Through hands-on experiences and age-appropriate activities, children are encouraged to inquire, investigate, and discover, igniting their natural curiosity.</p> <p>We have many Enrichment programs included in our curriculum like Tiny Chefs, where your child is introduced to the joys of cooking and nutrition. Under the guidance of our incredible team, they learn to create delicious and healthy treats, fostering independence and creativity in the kitchen. Music and Movement is another integral part of our curriculum, enhancing children's motor skills, coordination, and self-expression. Beyond being a creative outlet, music&rsquo;s rhythmic and melodic patterns stimulate the brain, exercising it and aiding memory development.</p> <p>We also place a strong emphasis on Nature Exploration, recognizing the importance of connecting with the natural world. Nature as a classroom allows children to engage all their senses, appreciate nature, and form stronger connections to their environment and community.</p> <p>Central to our philosophy is the belief in the power of play-based learning. We understand that children learn best through play, and our skilled educators design play-based activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. Play-based learning nurtures creativity, problem-solving, and communication skills, all essential for success in the 21st century. Our highly trained and caring teachers are committed to creating a safe and nurturing atmosphere, where every child feels valued and supported.</p> <p>At Amazing Explorers Academy, we strive to inspire a lifelong love of learning, providing a solid foundation for future academic and personal achievements. Join us on this exciting journey of exploration and discovery, where every day is an opportunity to learn, play, and grow together!</p>

Church of The Epiphany Day School (CEDS)

<div> <p>The Church of the Epiphany Day School is a Preschool&nbsp;community of children, families, and educators who are committed to learning and growing in a space where children can be children; where they can explore and delight in their play, and where they can take risks and pursue their creative and intellectual curiosities with freedom and encouragement. It is a joyful and loving community on the Upper East Side of Manhattan that believes in experiential learning and differentiated instruction. The teachers challenge children to master skills they are ready for with perseverance and a dedication&nbsp;to problem-solving.&nbsp;</p> </div> <div> <p>&nbsp;As a values-based school, CEDS emphasizes the importance of compassion, respect, and equity in all creative, academic, and social-emotional endeavors. They serve people of all faiths, backgrounds, and belief systems. CEDS seeks&nbsp;to develop the&nbsp;natural instinct&nbsp;towards mutual respect and kindness in every child.&nbsp;</p> </div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div> <p>&nbsp;CEDS utilizes a Play-Based, Emergent Curriculum approach to teaching young children. Through this child-centered curriculum, CEDS students develop an active approach to learning that is joyful, enthusiastic, and confidence building. Their cognitive, emotional, and physical development grow as the experienced faculty builds curriculum guided by the children&rsquo;s interests, keeping school fun and inspiring. By intentionally facilitating the growth of their character and moral integrity, CEDS students use their knowledge, compassion, and intellect to promote health, happiness, peace, and justice for all citizens.&nbsp;</p> </div>