Editor’s note: To read profiles of all 2015-2016 Blackboard Awards honorees, click HERE!
Mott Hall II
Principal: Marlon Lowe
6-8
234 West 109th Street
Award: Outstanding Principal
Describe your school’s core educational philosophy.
Mott Hall II is a small and progressive school located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Our school’s motto is “Today’s Scholars, Tomorrow’s Leaders.” Scholars are challenged to question, anticipate, and solve problems, assume personal responsibility, and emerge as enthusiastic life-long learners and independent thinkers motivated by the pursuit of academic excellence and social responsibility.
Tell us about a few of the school’s achievements or distinguishing programs.
Mott Hall II has had a lot to celebrate over the past few years. We were designated as a Reward School by New York State because of the performance of our scholars on the New York State Assessments. Mott Hall II was acknowledged for overall proficiency and for closing the Achievement Gap amongst the various constituencies we serve. Also, Mott Hall II has been recognized for providing high quality support to our scholars with disabilities.
What’s new?
For the first time, Mott Hall II offers Latin to all scholars. This addition is important as it was borne from a collaboration between parents, teachers, and the administration. Mott Hall II is also able to offer music for the first time in years. All scholars receive instruction on piano or keyboard and singing. Afterschool offerings have expanded exponentially. In addition to Mott Hall II’s afterschool program which includes competitive sports, science enrichment, tutoring, etc., Mott Hall II also partnered with Sheltering Arms afterschool program. This partnership allows us to offer parents an afterschool program five days out of the week. Finally, Mott Hall II has led the effort to use Google Chromebooks to support learning. By the end of the 2015-2016 school year, Mott Hall II will have a Google Chromebook available for all scholars.
What do you love about your school?
Mott Hall II is a truly special place… I went to schools where most of the adults didn’t know who I was. Mott Hall II is the exact opposite. We prioritize the needs, interests, and pursuits of our scholars. We make sure they are known and we afford them a warm, welcoming and nurturing environment where they can thrive. It is incredibly validating to hear scholars express how much they love the school and appreciate the environment we offer them.
