The Advantages of Charter Schools
A significant advantage of living in New York is that we have fantastic school resources. One education choice for New York students that continues to grow is Charter Schools. What is a Charter school, and how do they work?
What is a Charter School?
Charter schools are independently-operated public schools accountable for advancing student achievement. This combination of freedom and accountability allows charter teachers to adapt their classrooms based on their students’ needs while pushing for high academic achievement.
New York City’s 274 charter schools are independent of the New York City Department of Education, but they can be closed if they don’t meet certain student achievement standards.
Charter schools offer students opportunities for academic success that unfortunately cannot be said for some of the city’s public schools.
NYC Charter School Specialized Programs
Prospective Charter school parents can find programs that are specialized for students. Among them, 51 schools have enforced programs specifically designed for students with autism or have a student body where more than 25% of students have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for Special Education. And while public and private take the lead in dual language immersion programs Charter schools are starting to add thse programs to ther schools. Currently there are 9 schools that boast dual language programs. The same goes for adding more Pre-k classes to Charter Schools , currently there are a a total of 34 charter schools with pre-K programs.
NYC Charters Do Not Succeed at the Expense of District Schools
A common myth is that as New York’s charter schools succeed, the city’s traditional public schools fail as a result. A 2018 study by the Manhattan Institute concluded that “competition from New York City charter schools has either no effect or a positive effect,” on the city’s traditional public schools.
In fact, district schools have improved significantly as charter schools have spread throughout New York City’s five boroughs. Funding for district schools has also increased as the student population at charter schools has increased over the years.
Charter Schools are Specialized, with No Tuition Costs
Charter teachers adapt their classrooms and teaching methods to the current needs of their students. This freedom in the curriculum, teaching style, school missions and policies resembles that of private schools, enabling charter schools to provide the very best approach to academics that fits their students. Though teachers have flexibility, charter schools are held accountable for high academic achievement levels.
Charter School is a Lottery System
New York City’s charter schools admit students through a lottery system; they can- not select their students. This process gives students from all backgrounds and education levels an equal opportunity to attend and achieve academic success at charter schools.
Charter Students have had Access to Great Schooling. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit New York, charter schools across the five boroughs immediately transitioned to remote learning that adapted to the students in each classrooms’ needs.
75% of New York’s charter schools had created a remote learning procedure before the March 2020 lockdown. Charter students only had to wait an average of three days to begin remote learning after in-person learning was closed.
Both charter students and teachers had the tools to continue learning and teaching from home. 80% of New York charter schools provided students with devices for remote learning before schools were closed and 98% of New York’s charter school teachers had the technology to conduct remote instruction.
Charter schools have been able to keep students accountable and maintain a high level of learning despite COVID-19 and its ramifications on education. 85% of New York’s charter schools continued to introduce new learning content to students through the pandemic and charter schools were three times more likely to take attendance during remote classes com- pared to traditional schools.
Charter schools also expanded non- academic programs such as social-emotional counseling and family outreach during the pandemic. 75% of charter teachers increased their office hours during remote learning and 91% of charter teachers increased their time spent on communication with families during the pandemic.
There are charter schools throughout all five boroughs. We recently met leaders from many schools throughout the Bronx and Manhattan at a live charter school fair in March, 2025. Scroll through the charter schools below to read more about those schools:
BRONX
American Dream Charter School
Middle: 510 E. 141st Street, 4th Floor
Bronx, NY 10454
High: 403 Concord Avenue
Bronx, NY 10454
The American Dream Charter School develops academic excellence in both Spanish and English for grades 6-12, preparing students to excel in college and become leaders in their communities. The school cultivates a welcoming, encouraging environment for English language learners and immigrant students in the South Bronx. Through their dual-language program, they strive to maintain the scholars’ native language and develop their English language skills as it is proven to accelerate language learning. They also strongly believe that through Project-Based Learning, their students are able to create projects that resemble real-life situations while hitting on the core standards required for success in high school, college and beyond. Now accepting applications for middle school and high school applicants, visit the website to learn more or Apply now: theamericandreamschool.org/enroll.
Bold Charter Schools
1909 Daly Avenue
Bronx, NY 10460
Bold Charter Schools is a world-class Elementary and Middle School in the Bronx that is empowering all students to excel in college and in life. Whether on state assessments or in their nationally recognized chess program, Bold students are performing at the highest levels. Bold Students build their skills and cultivate their talents as Mathematicians, Readers, Artists, Leaders, Critical Thinkers, Chess Masters, Writers, Dancers and more. Who will you Be at Bold? Bold is accepting applications for Kindergarten – 7th Grade for the 25-26 School Year, as they ultimately grow to K-12.
Brilla Schools
Brilla College Prep Elementary – 413 E 144th St. Bronx, NY 10454
Brilla College Prep Middle – 222 Alexander Ave. Bronx, NY 10454
Brilla Veritas Elementary – 600 E 156th St. Bronx, NY 10455
Brilla Veritas Middle – 378 E 151st St. Bronx, NY 10455
Brilla Caritas – 2336 Andrews Ave. Bronx, NY 10468
Brilla Pax – 1248 Nelson Ave. Bronx, NY 10452
enrollment@brillaschools.org
www.brillaschools.org
Brilla, free K-8 schools, is the #1 choice of thousands of Bronx parents because it offers a safe, loving environment. Brilla students excel—outperforming peers on state tests and earning scholarships to top high schools. Brilla teachers nurture minds and hearts while building character. Brilla offers free transportation, school supplies, and field trips! Choose the school that sees the brilliance in your child, just like you do. Apply to join the 98% of parents who say Brilla is The Brilliant Choice in The Bronx!
Bronx Arts & Science Charter School (iLearn Schools)
925 Hutchinson River Pkwy
Bronx, NY 10465
ilearnschools.org/bronx-arts-science-charter-school
Bronx Arts and Science Charter School (Bronx ASCS) is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year for Primary (Pre-K–Kindergarten) and Elementary (1st–7th Grade). Bronx ASCS provides a high-quality STEAM-based education in an innovative, play-based learning environment designed to foster curiosity, collaboration, and academic success. The curriculum aligns with New York State Learning Standards and supports 21st-century skills, social-emotional learning, and hands-on exploration. Students, including English language learners and those with disabilities, are empowered to exceed grade-level expectations and thrive in college and careers. For more information, visit www.bronxcharter.org, email admissions@bronxcharter.org, or call 718-823-1065.
Bronx Charter School for the Arts
Elementary: 950 Longfellow Ave
Bronx, NY 10474
Middle: 1440 Story Ave
Bronx, NY 10473
Bronx Charter School for the Arts (Bronx Arts) is a K – 8 charter school founded on the principle that a rich and vibrant background in the arts is a key component of achieving academic excellence. The school strives to serve as a model that encourages creativity and innovation in the classroom and inspires students to develop the intellectual and personal fortitude to realize their dreams. Bronx Arts students are curious, engaged, and inspired by the creativity that guides them daily.They’re immersed in a supportive environment that allows them to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
Bronx Global Learning Institute for Girls (BGLIG)
750 Concourse Village West, Lower Level
Bronx, NY 10451
bgligschool.org
Bronx Global Learning Institute for Girls (BGLIG) is a K-8 charter school dedicated to empowering young women in the Bronx through rigorous academics, leadership development, and a unique dual-language curriculum. With a strong focus on confidence-building and global perspectives, BGLIG nurtures resilient leaders prepared to shape the future. Its innovative programs, including a K-8 Strings Program and small-group instruction, ensure each student is supported and challenged, proving that Bronx girls can rise, lead, and succeed.
Capital Prep Bronx Charter School
755 Co-op City Blvd
Bronx, NY 10475
capitalprepbronx.org
Capital Prep Bronx is a tuition-free, 6-12 public college preparatory charter school dedicated to academic excellence and social justice. Focused on developing future leaders, Capital Prep empowers scholars to create change while integrating social-emotional learning through a two-sport requirement, advisory program, student-led conferences, and more. By challenging the notion that race, zip code, or socioeconomic status determines success, Capital Prep is redefining what’s possible. In fact, 100% of Capital Prep graduates are accepted into four-year colleges and universities. Learn more at www.capitalprepbronx.org.
Cardinal McCloskey Community Charter School (CMCCS)
685 E. 182nd Street
Bronx, NY 10457
Cardinal McCloskey Community Charter School (CMCCS) is a free K-5th Grade charter school located in the Belmont section of The Bronx. CMCCS is dedicated to meeting the needs of students through a challenging academic program in a trauma-informed environment, providing students with comprehensive services and support. CMCCS provides: FREE Uniforms, School Supplies and School Bus Transportation to those who qualify, Two dedicated instructors per classroom, Smaller class sizes for targeted instruction, After school programs, IEP & Special Services to students in need.
Start your child’s educational journey at CMCCS! Apply today and secure a spot for your child in their nurturing learning community.
Classical Charter Schools
South Bronx Classical I, 977 Fox Street, Bronx, NY 10459
South Bronx Classical ||, 333 East 135th Street,Bronx, NY 10454
South Bronx Classical |||, 3458 Third Avenue, Bronx, NY 10456
South Bronx Classical IV, 757 Concourse Village West, Bronx, NY 10451
classicalcharterschools.org/enroll-today
Classical Charter Schools are free, public charter schools that provide children grades K-8 with a classical education, allowing scholars to excel in college preparatory high schools. Through a classical curriculum that emphasizes Latin, debate, and character education, their scholars not only achieve advanced mastery of New York State standards but also become liberated scholars and citizens of impeccable character. They learn discipline through a structured art, music, and fitness curriculum that allows them to specialize through after-school clubs. All scholars receive free tutoring from teachers, instructional coaches, and Deans of students. Classical charter schools have the highest proficiency rates of all charter schools in New York City, with a 91% pass rate in ELA and a 97% pass rate in math.
Creo College Prep
524 Courtlandt Ave, Bronx, NY 10451
info@creoprep.org
www.creoprep.org
Is your child safe, challenged, and excited to learn every day? At Creo College Prep, a 5th–8th grade charter school in the Bronx, students are always safe and never bored—whether in class, on the court, or after school. With small classes and one counselor per grade, students feel seen while pushing themselves to grow. Students can join competitive sports like football and cheer, or explore their passions in clubs like boxing and art. They will also build video games in computer science and develop confidence through our health and wellness program. Their 8th graders take 2 high school level classes, Living Environment & Algebra 1. Applications are open! Give your child a school where they’ll feel safe, supported, and inspired every day.
Dr. Richard Izquierdo Health & Science Charter School
800 Home Street
Bronx, NY 10456
efernandez@drizquierdocs.org
The mission of Dr. Richard Izquierdo Health and Science Charter School is to provide 6th-12th grade students with a nurturing and challenging educational experience to develop their abilities and address the health and economic disparities in our community. They seek to ensure that upon graduation, their students will be prepared for college achievement, gainful employment as certified health care professionals, and a commitment to serve others as they pursue rewarding lives and respected careers for themselves. The school also offers a wide variety of free enrichment and school clubs (podcast, soap making, video games, homework help, etc.) and athletics programs (flag football, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, etc.).
Earl Monroe New Renaissance Basketball School
1617 Parkview Ave
Bronx, NY 10461
info@earlmonroeschool.org
earlmonroeschool.org
The Earl Monroe New Renaissance Basketball School sets out to ensure that students’ futures are filled with possibility—whether they play the game or not.
- Back to back CSSA Girls and Boys Basketball State Champions
- In their 4th year with a new facility under construction
- 370 students with 18 students per class
- Full-time college and career counselors
- 9 literacy enhancement teachers
- One-on-one mentorship program with the private sector
Excellence Community Schools
Bronx Excellence 1 Elementary & Middle 1952-60 Benedict Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462
Bronx Excellence 2 Elementary 1804 Holland Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462
Bronx Excellence 2 Middle 1744 Williamsbridge Rd, Bronx, NY 10461
Bronx Excellence 3 Elementary 3956 Carpenter Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10466
Bronx Excellence 3 Middle 1160 E 213th Street, Bronx, NY, 10469
Bronx Excellence 4 Elementary 4300 Murdock Avenue, Bronx, NY 10466
Bronx Excellence 4 Middle 1160 East 213th Street, Bronx, NY, 10469
Bronx Excellence 5 1946 Bathgate Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10457
Stamford Excellence Elementary & Middle 1 Schuyler Avenue, Stamford, CT, 06902
excellencecommunityschools.org
With over 20 years of experience and three National Blue Ribbons, Excellence Community Schools (ECS) serves K-8 scholars in the Bronx, NY, Stamford, CT, and surrounding areas. ECS blends academic rigor with a nurturing, student-centered approach, focusing on high school and college preparation. Their “RISE UP” virtues—Respect, Integrity, Success, Etiquette, Unity, and Pride—are central to our culture. Their commitment to innovation, excellence, and family engagement prepares future leaders for lifelong success.
Family Life Academy Charter School
316 East 165th Street
Bronx, NY 10456
Founded in 2001, Family Life Academy Charter Schools (FLACS) serves nearly 2,000 students across five campuses in the Bronx, offering a tuition-free K-12 education. As a community-focused school network, FLACS provides holistic family support and a life-readiness learning environment, inspiring every student to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
FLACS provides students a meaningful, future-focused education in a safe and inclusive environment. From social justice education to personalized support, their students thrive through diverse extracurriculars and college, career, and life preparation.
Family Life Academy Charter Schools has been a trusted educational partner for the community in the Bronx. Together, they create opportunities and empower generations of students and families.
KIPP NYC
Locations throughout Bronx, Manhattan & Brooklyn
From kindergarten to college and career, KIPP NYC’s K–12+ approach supports your child every step of the way. KIPP NYC serves over 9000 students at 18 schools across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. They focus on the whole child by offering a rigorous academic experience alongside arts programs, competitive sports, and a strong social-emotional curriculum. At KIPP NYC, they believe in a whole child approach that supports each child’s unique needs. Through their signature KIPP Forward program, students are mentored from their first day through high school and beyond, whether with college readiness programs or career services after graduation. Additionally, their investment in STEM helps students develop critical thinking skills, while their health and wellness initiatives ensure they’re supported inside and outside the classroom.
Nuasin Next Generation Charter School
180 West 165th Street and
1366 Cromwell Ave
Bronx, NY 10452
Nuasin Next Generation Charter School is a K-12 school rooted in the Highbridge section of the Bronx. They believe in the unlimited talent and intellectual potential of their scholars and community. Through progressive education, they foster deep exploration, thoughtful questioning, relentless curiosity, and critical thinking. Their commitment empowers graduates to excel in their postsecondary paths and positively impact their communities. Every scholar has the potential to achieve greatness, and the school prepares them for that opportunity. Nuasin Next Generation is located at 180 West 165th Street and 1366 Cromwell Ave in the Bronx, with a new location opening in District 12 in August 2026. Visit www.nngcs.org to apply.
Public Prep
Girls Prep Bronx Elementary School (PK-5)
681 Kelly Street Bronx, NY 10455
Boys Prep Bronx Elementary & Middle School (PKK-8)
192 East 151 Street Bronx, NY 10451
Girls Prep Bronx Elementary & Middle School II (K-8)
263 East 203rd Street Bronx, NY 10458
enroll@publicprep.org
www.publicprep.org
Girls Prep & Boy Prep Charter Schools are part of Public Prep Academies, which operate tuition-free K-8 single gender charter schools in the Bronx, New York. At Girls Prep & Boy Prep, scholars experience an environment where they thrive academically, creatively, and personally. They are guided to recognize their potential and achieve greatness. Through their award-winning academies, they equip scholars to achieve their highest level of success. Why choose Public Prep? 100% of Public Prep schools outperform the other schools in their district. 19 years of transformative educational impact. 79% of scholars go on to enroll in college. Single gender educational environments where scholars are empowered and encouraged to pursue their passions.
Rosalyn Yalow Charter School
650 Grand Concourse
Bronx, NY 10451
monique.evans@yalowcharter.org
Rosalyn Yalow Charter School will be a K–8 public charter school in the South Bronx. They provide a private school education with low student/teacher ratios. With their mission of character development and academic excellence, all families should consider Yalow a top choice for their child. The strong curriculum will set your child on a path to college. Their strong curriculum will benefit your child throughout life, as will their extracurriculars- fencing taught by Olympians, chess by grandmasters, music by Juilliard graduates (violin and singing). They also have a partnership with Montefiore School Health Program to meet all your child’s health needs.
South Bronx Community Charter High School
1110 Washington Avenue
Bronx, NY 10456
southbronxcommunity.org
South Bronx Community Charter High School (SBC) serves as a beacon of opportunity and support in the heart of the South Bronx. The school’s mission to empower the next generation of leaders is reflected in its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community resilience. Through Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Competency-Based Learning (CBL), students engage deeply with coursework, developing essential skills for future success. Beginning in 9th grade, access to Advanced Placement (AP) courses challenges students academically. SBC graduates earn college credits, complete internships, and contribute to their communities through service. With a holistic approach, the school ensures students are well-prepared for college, careers, and beyond, fostering both academic achievement and personal growth.
Storefront Academy Charter School South Bronx K to 5
609 Jackson Ave
Bronx, NY 10455
Storefront Academy Charter School Harlem K to 5
445 East 115th street
New York, NY 10035
Application 2025-2026 – Storefront Academy
Storefront Academy Charter Schools provides a rigorous, whole-child education for students in grades K–5, equipping them with the academic and social-emotional foundation necessary for lifelong achievement. Located in the South Bronx and East Harlem, Storefront is proud to be a community school that collaborates closely with families to support each child’s growth. This strong partnership ensures that families actively participate in their children’s education. Storefront offers a warm and inclusive environment that welcomes English language learners, students with special needs, and all children who thrive in a nurturing and structured setting. Students develop confidence, character, and essential academic skills through data-driven instruction, small group support, strong arts programming, and opportunities for exploration beyond the classroom. Student voices are central to the school culture. Storefront is currently enrolling students for grades K–5. To learn more or to apply: storefrontacademycs.org.
UCHS for Advanced Math & Science II
(formally known as New Visions Charter High School)
900 Tinton Ave
Bronx, NY 10456
ams2admissions@unitedcharter.org
Advanced Math and Science II (AMS II) is a nationally recognized, exemplary, high-performing school often described as a family. Every student in the building has an adult they feel close to and can count on. Students are deeply cared for, and rigorous support is offered to ensure all students meet their full potential. AMS II is a place where all students will be challenged to be the best version of themselves.
University Prep Charter School
Middle School: 470 Jackson Avenue
Bronx, NY 10455
High School: 600 St. Ann’s Avenue
Bronx, NY 10455
uppublicschools.org
University Prep Middle School (grades 5-8) guarantees graduates a seat at University Prep High, one of Bronx’s top-performing schools with a 100% college acceptance rate. As a close-knit charter network, the school supports every student’s success! Their FREE afterschool program offers 30 clubs and competitive sports daily, along with enriching trips and experiences. With classes like chess, visual arts, and movement built into their curriculum, UPrep goes beyond the classroom. Now accepting applications for the next school year.
Vertex Partnership Academies
1143 Taylor Avenue
Bronx NY 10472
vertex_info@vertexacademies.org
Vertex Partnership Academies is shaping the future of high school education in the Bronx. As
an International Baccalaureate (IB) Authorized World School, Vertex ensures that every student
is challenged academically while developing the character and leadership skills necessary for
success in college and beyond. Vertex Partnership Academies seeks to develop virtuous high school graduates who lead self-determined, purposeful lives as Americans and global citizens. At Vertex, students don’t just learn: they thrive. Through rigorous coursework, global learning opportunities, and real-world experiences, they gain the knowledge, habits, and personal agency needed to lead purposeful lives.
Zeta Charter Schools
7 Schools, Pre-K to 8th Grade, in The Bronx, Upper Manhattan and Queens
Zeta Charter Schools is dedicated to ensuring every child in America has access to a free high-quality education from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. With an innovative, whole-child approach, Zeta fosters confidence, awareness, and knowledge, empowering students to become leaders in today’s evolving world. In addition to a world-class curriculum, Zeta integrates programs such as chess, dance, soccer, Taekwondo, art, and music, into students’ daily experiences. As the operator of NYC’s largest charter pre-kindergarten program, Zeta will serve students in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade across eleven schools in the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens in the 2025-26 school year—adding one grade level each year as students progress. Visit zetaschools.org to apply now.
MANHATTAN
Broome Street Academy Charter High School
555 Broome Street NY NY 10013
admissions@broomestreetacademy.org
BSA Mission: The Broome Street Academy Charter High School located in Soho will prepare our young people for post-secondary success that leads to positive life outcomes. We value student strengths and will provide multiple pathways to success through a curriculum of rigorous academic, career and social instruction grounded in the principles of positive youth development.
Capital Prep Harlem Charter School
2041 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10035
Capital Prep Harlem is a tuition-free, 6-12 public college preparatory charter school dedicated to academic excellence and social justice. Focused on developing future leaders, Capital Prep empowers scholars to create change while integrating social-emotional learning through a two-sport requirement, advisory program, student-led conferences, and more. By challenging the notion that race, zip code, or socioeconomic status determines success, Capital Prep is redefining what’s possible. In fact, 100% of Capital Prep graduates are accepted into four-year colleges and universities. Learn more at www.capitalprepharlem.org.
Democracy Prep
1767 Park Avenue, 4th Floor
New York, NY 10035
enrollny@democracyprep.org
democracyprep.org/enrollny/
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At Democracy Prep, they take education a step further, ensuring that every scholar is not only prepared academically but also nurtured to become active, engaged citizens in society. They understand that education is more than books and tests, it’s about preparing young minds for the world beyond the classroom. That’s why they integrate civic responsibility and global awareness into their curriculum. At Democracy Prep, your child will receive an education and be empowered to use their voices. Don’t just choose a school; choose a movement that believes in the power of education to change lives. Apply by April 1, 2025.
East Harlem Scholars Academy
2050 Second Avenue
New York, NY 10029
Enrollment@eastharlemscholars.org
East Harlem Scholars Academies are dedicated to fostering a love of learning in every student. Their passionate teachers empower young minds to reach their full potential, preparing them for a bright future. Serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade, the academies provide a student-centered education and continue supporting graduates through college and career success programs. They believe every child is unique, full of potential, and thrives in an environment that stimulates, supports, and inspires. At East Harlem Scholars Academies, core values—service, courage, humility, originality, leadership, achievement, and reflection—shape everything they do. They believe all children can and will succeed when given access to a great education. Learn more Eastharlemscholars.org/apply-today.
Harlem Village Academies
Locations throughout Harlem
Harlem Village Academies (HVA) is a warm, caring community of PreK–12 public charter schools that offer students an exceptionally high-quality education in a respectful, nurturing, and joyful environment. HVA is the ONLY charter school community in New York offering Montessori PreK through the high school International Baccalaureate—programs typically only found in private schools. HVA teaches critical thinking, independence, and ethical purpose. Students learn the leadership skills that will enable them to achieve their personal dreams and contribute to the greater good. Once enrolled, your child is part of the HVA family and will have the opportunity to continue in their schools through high school graduation. Experience the difference at Harlem Village Academies. Secure your seat today—apply by April 1 for PreK–6th grades.
Innovation Charter High School
410 East 100th Street
New York, NY 10029
Innovation Charter High School combines traditional academics with innovative programs, emphasizing creativity and individual growth. Students benefit from personalized learning plans and hands-on experiences in STEM, arts, and a State-certified culinary arts program. Innovation provides career and college readiness classes, along with industry and academic partnerships for internships and real-world insights. The athletics program includes competitive teams in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and soccer. Innovation is encouraged through project-based learning, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This approach prepares students for future success by equipping them with the tools to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
KIPP NYC
Locations throughout Manhattan, Bronx & Brooklyn
From kindergarten to college and career, KIPP NYC’s K–12+ approach supports your child every step of the way. KIPP NYC serves over 9000 students at 18 schools across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. They focus on the whole child by offering a rigorous academic experience alongside arts programs, competitive sports, and a strong social-emotional curriculum. At KIPP NYC, they believe in a whole child approach that supports each child’s unique needs. Through their signature KIPP Forward program, students are mentored from their first day through high school and beyond, whether with college readiness programs or career services after graduation. Additionally, their investment in STEM helps students develop critical thinking skills, while their health and wellness initiatives ensure they’re supported inside and outside the classroom.
Manhattan Charter School I (Elementary School)
100 Attorney Street, New York, NY, 10002
Manhattan Charter School II (Upper Elementary/Middle School)
220 Henry Street, New York, NY, 10002
Admissions@manhattancharterschool.org
Calling all Curious Minds! Apply Now Kindergarten-7th Grade! Manhattan Charter Schools focuses on fostering student curiosity and closing the imagination gap! Their elementary school builds a strong foundation with IB inspired academics, social-emotional learning, and enrichment programs. Their upper elementary/middle school prepares students for the future with a curriculum that includes AI, STEAM, and high school to college readiness. With dedicated teachers, a diverse community, and a commitment to excellence, they strive to see every child thrive in K-7. Enroll today!
New Heights Academy Charter School
1818 Amsterdam Ave
New York, NY 10031
New Heights Academy Charter School is a diverse, college-preparatory school committed to empowering students through rigorous academics and character development. Serving a student body with over 90% receiving free or reduced-price meals, the school fosters an inclusive environment where every student is encouraged to reach their full potential. With a graduation rate over 90% and a 100% college acceptance rate for graduates over the past decade, New Heights prepares students for success beyond high school. The school’s curriculum emphasizes STEM education, arts, and leadership, while its dedicated faculty and staff create a supportive, nurturing atmosphere. Through partnerships with organizations like Bloomberg Philanthropies and Brotherhood Sister Sol, New Heights ensures all students have access to transformative opportunities.
New York City Charter School of the Arts
26 Broadway 12th Floor
New York, NY 10004
cityschoolofthearts.org/learnmore
At New York City Charter School of the Arts, education goes beyond traditional academics. This innovative, tuition-free middle school combines rigorous academic instruction with comprehensive arts education, creating a unique “Create-Learn-Thrive” approach that develops the whole child. Located in Manhattan’s Financial District but drawing diverse students from all five boroughs, CSA offers specialized programs like digital storytelling, theater, and music alongside top-tier academics. The results speak for themselves—students consistently outperform expectations and gain acceptance to prestigious arts high schools. Unlike many specialized arts programs, CSA requires no auditions or portfolios—it’s open to all NYC students entering grades 6-8. For forward-thinking families seeking academic excellence within a creative, inclusive environment, CSA represents NYC’s leading choice for middle school education that prepares students for tomorrow’s challenges. Apply today at cityschoolofthearts.org/learnmore.
Opportunity Charter School
240 W. 113th Street, 4th Floor
New York, NY 10026
Opportunity Charter School (OCS), located in Harlem, proudly celebrates 20 years of serving NYC students. Founded in 2004, OCS provides a supportive, innovative learning environment for students in grades 6-12, empowering those who struggle in traditional settings to succeed academically, emotionally, and socially. OCS offers exceptional special education services, with a dedicated team of social workers, learning specialists, and school culture leaders supporting all students. The school provides rigorous academic programming for general education students and students with IEPs, including those at risk of academic failure. Students benefit from free afterschool programs, winning sports teams, and limited busing. With a commitment to academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement, OCS continues to provide opportunity for all. Learn more at OCSny.org.
Sisulu Walker Charter School of Harlem
71 Convent Avenue
New York, NY 10027
Sisulu-Walker Charter School of Harlem has been a beacon in the community for 25 years and counting. The school’s outstanding teachers and leadership are dedicated to and united in the tireless pursuit of their mission – preparing K-5 students living in and around Central Harlem for matriculation to exceptional public, private and parochial middle and high schools. This is achieved by nurturing the intellectual, emotional, artistic and social development of the students.Sisulu-Walker offers a rigorous and challenging academic curriculum taught by a highly prepared and committed cadre of professional educators. Beginning in kindergarten, the school prepares students for college and a lifetime of achievement, honor and service.. Apply now: https://forms.gle/63XLfNo3uxcKGi969
Storefront Academy Charter School South Bronx
609 Jackson Ave
Bronx, NY 10455
Storefront Academy Charter School Harlem
445 East 115th street
New York, NY 10035
Storefront Academy Charter Schools provides a rigorous, whole-child education for students in grades K–5, equipping them with the academic and social-emotional foundation necessary for lifelong achievement. Located in the South Bronx and East Harlem, Storefront is proud to be a community school that collaborates closely with families to support each child’s growth. This strong partnership ensures that families actively participate in their children’s education. Storefront offers a warm and inclusive environment that welcomes English language learners, students with special needs, and all children who thrive in a nurturing and structured setting. Students develop confidence, character, and essential academic skills through data-driven instruction, small group support, strong arts programming, and opportunities for exploration beyond the classroom. Student voices are central to the school culture. Storefront is currently enrolling students for grades K–5. To learn more or to apply: storefrontacademycs.org/apply
WHIN Music Community Charter School
517 West 164th Street
New York, NY 10032
WHIN Music Community Charter School is built on the principles of El Sistema where staff, families, and students work together to ensure every child reaches their full potential. The school makes academics a priority while also ensuring students’ character and social-emotional growth. With music at the school’s core, students work together to create something bigger than their individual skills, and this approach extends to their classrooms where project-based, hands-on learning cultivates curious, creative, and hardworking children. Visit the website for more information and Apply now at whinmusic.org. Serving grades K-8.
Zeta Charter Schools
7 Schools, Pre-K to 8th Grade, in The Bronx, Upper Manhattan and Queens
Zeta Charter Schools is dedicated to ensuring every child in America has access to a free high-quality education from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. With an innovative, whole-child approach, Zeta fosters confidence, awareness, and knowledge, empowering students to become leaders in today’s evolving world. In addition to a world-class curriculum, Zeta integrates programs such as chess, dance, soccer, Taekwondo, art, and music, into students’ daily experiences. As the operator of NYC’s largest charter pre-kindergarten program, Zeta will serve students in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade across eleven schools in the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens in the 2025-26 school year—adding one grade level each year as students progress. It’s not too late to apply for 2025-26. Visit zetaschools.org.
