The Ultimate Guide to SCHOOLS
Education Navigating New York’s Education Landscape
By New york Family
Education is the cornerstone of a child’s development, and in New York, parents are fortunate to have access to a myriad of top-tier educational institutions - some of the best in the country, even. New York’s educational landscape is as diverse as the city/ state itself, offering endless opportunities for children to thrive from their first day of nursery school to high school graduation. From early childhood programs to high schools, the diverse array of options—public, private, charter, magnet, and faith-based schools—ensures there is something for every family.
Choosing the right school for your child can be challenging, but understanding the options can make the process less daunting. Making the right choice involves understanding your child’s needs, interests, and strengths. Open houses and school tours provide insight into a school’s culture and programs. Asking about class sizes, extracurricular activities, and support services can help you make an informed decision. Staying informed will empower you to create the best educational pathway for your child. Here’s a comprehensive look at the options available to help you make the right decisions for your child’s education.
Early Education: Nursery, Daycares, and Preschools
Starting your child’s education journey begins with nursery, daycare, or preschool. New York’s early childhood programs cater to a wide range of needs, offering flexible schedules, bilingual education, and an emphasis on community building and mental well-being. Many programs are designed to support parents’ busy lives, offering care as early as infancy and laying a foundation for academic and social development.
Early education centers often focus on play-based learning, introducing young children to concepts like problem-solving, creativity, and communication. Many also emphasize cultural diversity, offering bilingual and even trilingual programs to prepare children for a globalized world.
Public Schools
New York’s public school system is vast and dynamic, serving students from pre-K through high school. With a strong emphasis on academic achievement, inclusivity, and future readiness, public schools provide a well-rounded education. High schools offer robust resources, including career counseling, internships, and college preparatory programs.
The city’s public schools are also known for their extracurricular activities, from performing arts and sports to STEM clubs and volunteer opportunities, allowing students to discover and nurture their passions. Special education and multilingual support ensure all children receive equitable access to quality education.
Charter Schools
Charter schools provide tuition-free education with the flexibility to innovate. Operating independently from the traditional public school system, they emphasize personalized learning, smaller class sizes, and extended school days or years.
Charter schools often adopt unique educational approaches, such as projectbased learning, thematic curricula, or technology integration. These schools are held accountable for their performance, with funding tied to meeting specific academic goals. Many charter schools also cater to special education and English language learners, ensuring inclusive education for diverse student populations.
Private and Independent Schools
Private schools, often referred to as independent schools, offer an exceptional range of opportunities for middle and high school students. Funded by tuition and charitable donations, these schools are free to design their curricula, emphasizing academic excellence, creativity, and leadership.
Private schools often provide access to state-of-the-art facilities, from science labs and art studios to athletic fields and theaters. Small class sizes foster close relationships between students and teachers, creating a supportive learning environment. Students are encouraged to take on leadership roles, participate in meaningful projects, and explore interests through clubs, sports, and summer programs.
For families seeking a residential education experience, New York’s boarding schools offer a unique blend of independence and structure. With rigorous academics and a diverse student body, these institutions prepare students for success in college and beyond.
Catholic Schools
Catholic schools blend rigorous academics with a strong moral foundation. With a focus on values like compassion, integrity, and respect, these schools nurture the whole child. Smaller class sizes allow for personalized attention, and the integration of STEM programs ensures students are equipped for modern challenges.
Catholic high schools are particularly known for their strong graduation rates and college acceptance statistics. Families considering this path should familiarize themselves with the Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools (TACHS) to help their children prepare for the application process.
Jewish Schools
Jewish schools offer a holistic approach to education, combining academics with religious and cultural teachings. Students engage in Torah study, Jewish history, and community service, fostering a deep connection to their heritage.
Beyond the classroom, these schools provide extracurricular opportunities, such as clubs, field trips, and religious observances, creating a rich and balanced educational experience. Co-ed and single-sex options cater to different family preferences, ensuring a supportive environment for every student.
International Schools
New York is home to several international schools that cater to expatriate families and globally-minded parents. These schools follow international curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British, French, or German systems.
International schools emphasize global
citizenship, language immersion, and cross-cultural understanding. Students benefit from a multicultural environment and are well-prepared for higher education worldwide.
Montessori Schools
Montessori schools focus on child-led learning, encouraging independence and curiosity. Using a hands-on approach, these schools allow students to explore subjects at their own pace, fostering critical thinking and creativity.
Montessori programs often include mixed-age classrooms, where older students mentor younger peers, creating a collaborative and nurturing environment. These schools are ideal for families seeking a personalized, non-traditional educational experience.
Magnet Schools
Magnet schools specialize in thematic programs such as STEM, arts, or global studies. These tuition-free schools offer innovative curricula and hands-on learning
experiences, often in partnership with universities and cultural institutions.
Magnet schools are known for their creative teaching methods, including project-based learning and real-world applications. Dedicated spaces like maker labs, horticultural centers, and broadcast studios provide students with enriching experiences that go beyond traditional classroom settings.
Specialized High Schools
Specialized High Schools are designated for students who excel greatly in a specific area of concentration like academics or performing arts. Admission to these schools typically requires an entrance exam or audition. Once admitted, students benefit from rigorous study, access to cutting-edge resources, and connections to elite colleges and universities.
There are currently nine specialized high schools in New York City and you must be a resident to apply to these schools. However, there are specialuzed high schools outside of NYC as well with similar requirements for entry.
Education Should My Child Take AP Classes?
By Tony Di Giacomo, Ph.D.
Many parents wonder whether an A in a Regents or College Prep class is better than a B in an AP course. As with many things in education, the decision is not a binary yes or no. There is certainly a lot to consider. What are your child’s specific academic needs? What is their level of prior achievement? What are their scholastic interests and strengths? Beyond that, what are their college goals? Though certainly a lot to navigate, having an awareness of the potential benefits of and best strategies for selecting AP courses is key to an informed decision.
AP classes are more than just a more rigorous course that offers potential for college credit. These courses are constructed around high standards and are led by teachers who must ultimately demonstrate that their students perform well on the end-of-course exams. Moreover, the AP exam often helps drive content and teaching decisions to make for a better overall course experience for the student, even if it is more challenging. The support and engagement of AP teachers, coupled with the motivation and drive of one’s peers, often encourages higher levels of learning and performance from students.
How to Choose Which AP Courses Your Child Should Take
Of course, it isn’t always sensical to sign up for every advanced-placement course that is offered. The selection of AP courses your child takes should revolve around their academic interests, future college major or career path, and record of prior academic achievement. For a student with little interest in a discipline like physics, for example, it may not be wise to push enrollment in an AP physics course that could ultimately lead to below-average learning outcomes. However, for those on the cusp in terms of their PSAT scores, prior grades, and counselor recommendations, it is often wise to err toward selecting AP courses.
How many AP classes should my child take each year?
For some students, balancing one to two AP courses per year is a reasonable goal that can offer significant benefits in the collegeadmissions process. Some students can handle more AP classes, while others are in IB.
What are the benefits of taking AP classes?
One of the most important aspects of a college application is the high school transcript, more specifically the level of demonstrated rigor in one’s course schedule and associated levels of performance. This rings especially true in light of the College Board’s recent decision to eliminate SAT Subject Tests, making the demonstration of subject strengths on student transcripts all the more important. Most schools would rather see students challenge themselves, even if it may mean slightly lower levels of
performance. With proper organization, study skills, and teacher communication, however, students can often perform as well as or better than their previous academic record.
Beyond the admissions advantage, taking more advanced coursework can provide students the opportunity to engage more deeply with particular fields of interest, potentially discovering new major or career interests along the way.
Plus, exam credits can also offer savings on degree requirements in college, or allow for a greater breadth in the college courses available to your student.
Ultimately, AP classes can be better taught, supported, organized, and recognized by admission officers as the gold-standard course. Cultivating a balanced schedule that both supports students’ individual needs and provides enough challenge to facilitate academic growth will often provide the best results in high school and beyond.
Celebrating 140 Years of Staten Island Academy
Pr ES c H oo L S
4 Angels Day Care Inc dba Diversity Academy Child Care
245 Simonson Ave. 1141 Castleton Ave. 125 Greaves Ln. 917-821-5048
245 Simonson Ave.
This daycare provides exceptional early childhood education, rooted in a unique diversity curriculum that emphasizes Acknowledgment of differences, Acceptance that being different is okay, and Appreciation for the value diversity brings to the world. Serving infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, the center nurtures each child’s potential in a safe, inclusive environment.
4 Angels Day Care prepares children for a bright future by fostering academic, social, and emotional growth necessary for a diverse world.
Big Bird’s Playhouse 1859 Richmond Ave. 718-982-0550
bigbirdsplayhouse.com
info@bigbirdsplayhouse.com
Big Bird’s Playhouse has been serving parents in Staten Island since 1991, providing them with a safe environment where children feel loved, respected and safe in a place where kids learn, grow, and build a foundation for their future. Big Bird’s Playhouse believes that children can learn from play, stories and arts and crafts at their daily centers. The staff is warm and caring, and sensitive to each child’s specific needs. The school serves children from 3 months to 12 years old. Pre-K and pre-K3 are free full days of instruction for 6 hours 20 minutes; before and after care is available for a fee. Extended hours are available; open from 6:30am to 6:30pm.
Children’s Harbor Montessori School
1000 Richmond Terrace 718-442-6112
childrensharbormontessori. com
Children’s Harbor Montessori School was founded
in 1978 by a group of local parents who saw the need for an Arts-based Montessori Preschool on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center in Staten Island. The Preschool is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization that is chartered as an educational corporation by the NYS Board of Regents. Children’s Harbor Montessori School is a verified member of the American Montessori Society and is licensed by the NYC DOHMH.
High Hopes of Staten Island
1298 Woodrow Rd. 718-317-8143
highhopeschildcare.com admin@highhopeschildcare. com
High Hopes has been providing childcare since 1996 and is licensed by the DOHMH. Each of their programs are dedicated to creating a loving and nurturing environment. High Hopes has been working with the NYC Department of Education providing free Pre-k and Pre-K3. They offer full and half day programs in their
nursery classroom for children 2-3 years old and a full day infant/toddler program.
JCC Early Childhood Education Center
Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC 1466 Manor Rd., 718-475-5230
Avis/South Shore JCC 1297 Arthur Kill Rd., 718-4755224
JCC Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel 10 Gregg Pl. 718-475-5290
JCC/Berman Early Childhood Education Center 2221 Richmond Ave., 718-4755100 sijcc.org/early-childhoodeducation
The JCC of Staten Island offers a daycare program and 3-K and Pre-K for All. Teachers create fun, hands-on learning opportunities that provide children with a strong educational foundation. The JCC offers flexible schedules at four locations. Programs are staffed with caring and experienced professionals. Teachers are certified by the State Education Department of New
York. The JCC is licensed by the Department of Health’s Bureau of Day Care.
JCC First Foot Forward
The Learning Experience 35A Bay Street StatenIslandTLE@gmail.com thelearningexperience.com/ centers/staten-island-stgeorge
We
We
Let Your Child
Child Grow With Us
Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC 1466 Manor Rd. Avis/South Shore JCC 1297 Arthur Kill Rd. JCC/Berman Early Childhood Education Center 2221 Richmond Ave. 718-475-5226 sijcc.org/first-foot-forward
The Learning Experience sets the standard in early childhood education by blending fun and learning to inspire young minds. Its awardwinning curriculum includes hands-on STEM activities, interactive engineering kits, and a strong focus on phonics and literacy, building a solid foundation for reading and problem-solving. With nurturing teachers, innovative programs, and state-of-theart facilities, TLE creates an engaging environment where children thrive. Families choose TLE for the best start to their child’s educational journey.
The JCC has over 35 years of experience serving preschool children with special needs. First Foot Forward assists children 2.5 to 5 years old with developmental needs. An individualized curriculum allows children to reach their full potential in a warm, nurturing environment. New York City and State fund First Foot Forward programming. First Foot Forward specializes in helping children with speech/ language delays, socialization concerns, developmental delays, poor motor skills, sensory needs, and autism spectrum disorder.
Most Terrific Child Center 555 Tompkins Ave. mtcdaycare.com
At the Most Terrific Child Center, they believe that children learn best through
Visit our open house on January 25, 2025 11:00 am1:00 pm Free 5-day Pre-K For All for
High Hopes Child Care
exploration and hands-on experiences. They acquire the ability to relate to the world around them through active engagement with their environment. There is a balance between indoor and outdoor time, active and quiet activities, and individual and group routines. Each child is treated with love and respect. They believe expressing oneself is a key value for all children.
Prodigy Preschool at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion
3080 Arthur Kill Rd. 718-948-4800 pavilionprodigypreschool.com jeannetteeilenberg@ thepavilion.org
Prodigy Preschool is a Pre-K For All Department of Education 4-year-old specialty program in which children learn the fundamentals of ice skating and become academically prepared for kindergarten. Small classroom size provides an intimate setting where children are able to receive one-on-one attention from
NY State certified teachers. Children learn the techniques and foundations of ice skating with on-ice activities weekly.
Staten Island Academy 715 Todt Hill Rd. statenislandacademy.org 718-303-7803
ccrane65@ statenislandacademy.org
Programs include coed college prep school for pre-K 3 to grade12. Free extended day 7am- 7pm. Full-day 3 or 5-days-a week program offered for pre-K 3 students. Summer programs. College guidance program. Academic Resource Center staffed with Orton-Gillingham trained specialists. Need-based financial aid available beginning in kindergarten.
Tender Care Preschool Catholic Charities of Staten Island 6581 Hylan Blvd. 718-317-2849
tendercarepreschool.com
Tender Care Preschool is a
loving and caring place for children and families. The preschool supports children where they need it and challenges them when they are ready for the next step. At Tender Care Preschool, children become lifelong learners with a strong foundation and are well prepared for their educational journey. Full-day 2-year-old program, Free fullday 3K and pre-K4 Extended hours: 7am-5pm.
ELEME ntary
S c H oo L S
Bridge Prep Charter School 715 Ocean Terrace 718-274-3437 bridgeprepcharter.org info@bridgeprepcharter.org
Bridge Prep Charter School is a diverse community of learners that serves elementary school students from every zip code across Staten Island. As the city’s only public school that is both rooted in the Science of Reading and committed to the development of the whole child, Bridge Prep’s
unique, rigorous academic program has a proven track record of success in improving literacy outcomes and supporting language development for learners at all levels.
Hellenic Classical Charter Schools
1641 Richmond Ave. hccs-nys.org
718-499-0957
The Hellenic Classical Charter Schools provide their diverse student populations with a rigorous education enriched with the classical study of the Greek and Latin languages, Paideia Socratic Seminars, and career and college ready curriculum, preparing students for long term academic success. HCCS-Park Slope was named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2019. HCCS ranks among the top New York City charter schools and is designated a Repeat Reward School and High Performing School by the New York State Education Department.
New World Preparatory Charter School
285 Clove Rd. 718-705-8990 Ext. 211 sgonzalez@newworldprep.org
New World Preparatory Charter School (NWP) is a public college preparatory charter school serving kindergarten through 8th Grade. NWP’s Guiding Values are Pride, Respect, Excellence, and Purpose. NWP supports the academic, social and emotional needs of their students. They primarily serve the North Shore Community of Staten Island. Lottery preference is given to scholars who come from a home where English is not the primary language spoken in the home. NWP’s new building will be open in 2024.
St. John’s Lutheran School
663 Manor Rd. 718-761-1858 school.stjohnslutheransi.org Stjohnslutheransi@gmail.com
St. John’s Lutheran School is a small Christian school that provides each child and family with the attention they
deserve. The small class sizes allow talented teachers to tailor education according to the needs of the student. The family oriented climate and strong academic foundation means success for all. St. John’s has the philosophy that every child can learn. Teachers, leadership, and families work as a team to ensure the best education is being provided.
Staten Island Academy 715 Todt Hill Rd. statenislandacademy.org 718-303-7803 ccrane65@ statenislandacademy.org Programs include coed college prep school for pre-K 3 to grade 12. Free extended day 7am- 7pm. Full-day 3 or 5-days-a week program offered for pre-K 3 students. Summer programs. College guidance program. Academic Resource Center staffed with Orton-Gillingham trained specialists. Need-based financial aid available beginning in kindergarten.
Supplementing Instruction with Classical, Cultural and Language Studies
Pre-K Open House
Monday, February 3 at 5:30pm
Grades K-8 Open House
Wednesday, February 5 at 5:30pm
Wednesday, March 5 at 5:30pm
DAILY OPEN HOUSE TOURS
Call for an Appointment Shadowing Available Small Classes Guaranteed Tailored Education, Enrichment, Computers, Music, Indoor & Outdoor Play Area
Sports, After School Programs, Extended Care, Financial Aid HS Preparation
H i GH S c H oo L S
Community School
1135 Teaneck Rd.
201-862-1796
Communityschoolk12nj.org office@communityschool.k12. nj.us
Community School serves the bright child with learning and attentional disabilities. For over 55 years the school’s primary goal has been to help children achieve a level of classroom performance that is fully commensurate with their abilities, intellects and talents. Community School welcomes students from New York and New Jersey, and is located just over the George Washington Bridge, in Teaneck, NJ.
Monsignor Farrell High School
2900 Amboy Rd. 718-987-2900 msgrfarrellhs.org gguastavino@msgrfarrellhs. org
In addition to its exceptional college preparatory curriculum, Monsignor Farrell High
School offers several academic institutes including the Business & Finance Institute/ Bloomberg Lab, the Marine Biology Society, the Leadership Institute, the Writing Studio, the Institute for Law and Public Policy, and the STEM Institute. Its students learn from professionals in the fields of medicine, law, business, science, government, and more. Monsignor Farrell graduates attend the most prestigious colleges and universities across the nation.
Moore Catholic High School 100 Merrill Ave. moorecatholichs.org 718-761-9200 admissions@moorechs.org
Moore Catholic High School is a co-educational secondary school dedicated to a studentcentered learning environment in the Catholic tradition. Moore Catholic is committed to academic excellence as well as to providing a rich and varied curriculum such that all students develop their full intellectual, spiritual, physical,
artistic, and moral potential. Moore Catholic students develop as responsible citizens, educated for thoughtful, meaningful participation in society.
St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School 5150 Hylan Blvd. 718-984-6500 Josephsea.org alumni@josephsea.org
St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School has been providing students with the full high school experience grounded on Catholic Faith and Values for over 60 years. From a 26-acre campus and college program to specialized institutes and seamless online learning environment, there’s truly something for everyone at Sea.
Staten Island Academy 715 Todt Hill Rd. statenislandacademy.org 718-303-7803 ccrane65@ statenislandacademy.org Programs include coed col-
lege prep school for pre-K 3 to grade12. Free extended day 7am- 7pm. Full-day 3 or 5-days-a week program offered for pre-K 3 students. Summer programs. College guidance program. Academic Resource Center staffed with Orton-Gillingham trained specialists. Need-based financial aid available beginning in kindergarten.
Union Catholic High School 1600 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains, NJ 908-889-1600 unioncatholic.org admissions@unioncatholic.org
Guided by the core values of respect, responsibility, honesty, compassion, and community, Union Catholic offers a rigorous academic curriculum infused with cutting-edge technology and faith-based learning. Renowned for its strong focus on individual success and diverse study body, UC prepares students to excel in higher education and become leaders committed to making a positive impact.
They say it takes a village to raise a child, and we agree! A large part of that “village” is, of course, the people your child meets throughout their educational journey. Each new school a child attends comes with new staff, new friends, new experiences and new opportunities for growth and development. That’s why it’s up to each school’s leader to ensure that every student they enroll is flourishing to the best of their abilities. The education professionals below serve as exemplary leaders in their respective school communities. They each work tirelessly to ensure not only the academic success of their students, but the social and emotional success as well. That’s what sets a great leader apart, after all! Learn all about the person who might be at the forefront of your child’s next educational adventure below.
4 Angels Day Care Inc dba Diversity Academy Child Care
Dr. Sandra Greatheart, EdD, Owner and Executive Director
Dr. Sandra Greatheart, EdD, is an accomplished educator, entrepreneur, and community advocate with over 28 years of experience in early childhood education. She is dedicated to fostering inclusive, high-quality childcare and empowering future educators through training programs. As a mother & grandmother, Dr. Greatheart’s journey reflects resilience and determination, culminating in her doctoral degree in education. She remains committed to uplifting families and her community.
Children’s Harbor Montessori School
Dina Baio-McLaughlin, Director
Dina Baio-McLaughlin has served as the Director of Children’s Harbor Montessori School (CHMS) for 21 years, with 34 years of total experience at CHMS. She was originally the Tran-sitional Toddler Teacher before becoming Director. Dina holds a Master’s Degree and NYS Certification in Education. She received her Montes-sori training at the Center for Montessori Teacher Education. Dina has been honored to contribute to the school’s growth and success for more than 3 decades.
Hellenic Classical Charter School
Cathy Kakleas, Principal
Cathy Kakleas has been a dedicated educator at the Hellenic Classical Charter School since 2005, beginning as a first-grade teacher focused on nurturing a love of learning. She later became the Literacy Coach for grades K-8, earning advanced training at Columbia University’s Teachers College. In 2016, Cathy transitioned to Dean of Academics, supporting a team of teachers and overseeing the Pre-K program. Now the principal of Hellenic’s Staten Island campus, Cathy is committed to providing a rigorous, classical education to prepare students for leadership and global citizenship.
Big Bird’s Playhouse
Linda Indelicato, Owner/Director
Passionate about early childhood, her journey began with a family legacy at Candyland in Brooklyn, owned by her mother and aunt. In 1991, Linda Indelicato established her own home daycare. Initially starting with one child, she quickly expanded in response to the escalating demand for quality child care. Committed to providing a secure and joyful environment for children to learn and flourish, what began as a venture not originally envisioned turned into her profound passion—a haven for growth and exploration.
JCC Early Childhood Education Center
Dawn Gallis, Early Childhood Director
Dawn Gallis is the Early Childhood Director at the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island. She holds degrees in Psychology and Early Childhood Education. Dawn has worked at the JCC for the past 16 years and has loved every minute. In her current role, Dawn oversees all four of the JCC’s Early Childhood Education sites across Staten Island, from infant daycare through Pre-K, and loves to see the students’ smiling faces.
Bridge Prep Charter School
Tim Castanza, Executive Director/School Leader
Mr. Tim Castanza, Bridge Prep’s founder and School Leader, is a proud Staten Islander. A recipient of the Cahn Fellowship for Distinguished School Leaders, he is a respected voice in the field of literacy education. Mr. Castanza serves on the NYC Literacy Advisory Council, helping to develop guidance for literacy instruction in New York’s public schools and on The Path Forward initiative to support the integration of the science of reading into educator preparation programs.
JCC First Foot Forward
Jayne Smith, Chief Program Director for Early Childhood and Disability Services
Jayne Smith is the Chief Program Director for Early Childhood and Disability Services at the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island. Jayne has been in the field of special education for over 40 years. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education and an Advanced Certificate in School Administration and Supervision, as well as School District Administration. She oversees early childhood programs at all four of the JCC’s Early Childhood Education sites across Staten Island, as well as the Department for People with Disabilities. Jayne has been at the JCC for over 30 years.
Monsignor Farrell High School The Opportunity of a Lifetime
You Belong Here
We welcome students from every background as partners in our inclusive Catholic educational community. We are committed to helping young men develop their best selves - intellectually, morally, and spiritually - through a transformative high school experience in and out of the classroom.
Exceptional Academics
In addition to our exceptional college preparatory curriculum, Monsignor Farrell students learn from professionals in the fields of medicine, law, business, science, government, and more through our academic institutes and societies, which include:
• Archaeology Society
• Business & Finance Institute and Bloomberg Lab
• Institute for Law and Public Policy
• Leadership Institute
• Marine Biology Society
• Medical Education Development Institute
• Scientific Research Society
• Sports Broadcasting and Digital Media
• STEM Institute
• The Writing Studio
• WFBN Television Studio
Something for Everyone
Join one of our 15 competitive athletic teams, including championshipcaliber programs in baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, track & field, and wrestling.
Looking for ways to explore your interests and make lifelong connections? Get involved in one (or more!) of our 40+ clubs and activities, such as studio art, concert band, math team, student government, speech and debate, or our intramural sports program.
College acceptance, including many of the top colleges and universities in the country
Faculty-to-student ratio and an average class size of just 27 means more personal attention
Earned in college scholarship money in 2024. An average of $231K per-student!
Earn up to 45 college credits at Farrell
Monsignor Farrell High School msgrfarrellpres
The Learning Experience
Angelica Piscatello, M.ED, Center Director,
Angelica, a lifelong New Yorker, dedicated educator, and proud mom of two spirited daughters, knows the joy of watching children thrive. Seeing her daughters flourish at The Learning Experience, coming home with new words, songs, and discoveries that spark curiosity and confidence, was truly inspiring. Motivated by their growth, Angelica proudly brings Staten Island its first TLE center. With nearly 20 years in educational leadership, she’s excited to provide a nurturing space for early learning success where children can learn to read, reason, and imagine.
New World Preparatory Charter School
Amanda Ainley, 6-8th Grade Principal
Dr. Amanda Ainley is in her ninth year as Principal at New World Preparatory Charter School. With a BA in Psychology/Childhood General and Special Education, an MSEd in Teaching Literacy, and a Ph.D. She prioritizes teacher support for enhanced student engagement and collaborates with the guidance department, focusing on students’ social/emotional development She is ommitted to an inclusive, academically robust environment.
Monsignor Farrell High School
Lou Tobacco, President
Lou Tobacco is a former New York State Assemblyman and corporate executive with extensive experience in public service and administration. Tobacco, an alumnus of the Monsignor Farrell graduating Class of 1990 continues to lead Monsignor Farrell’s commitment to Catholic education, emphasizing academic rigor and the cultivation of young men into individuals of faith and character.
Prodigy Preschool at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion
Jeannette Eilenberg, Educational Director
Jeannette Eilenberg received her Bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and her Master’s degree from The College of Staten Island. She began her career teaching at PS 204 in District 20. She has worked as an education facilitator at The Staten Island Children’s Museum. Jeannette also worked at The Children’s Center in CSI as a lead teacher for three-year-olds. She is so excited to have become the Educational Director at Prodigy Preschool.
Moore Catholic High School
Gina DeSantis, President
Mrs. DeSantis has over two decades of service to the Staten Island Catholic High School community. She has been Chief Administrator at Moore for nine of those years. Under Mrs. Desantis’ leadership, Moore has been able to maintain their exceptional educational environment synonymous with MCHS: small, safe, and strong.
Staten Island Academy
Eileen Corigliano, Head of School
Dr. Eileen Corigliano has been a Staten Island Academy community member since 1995 and calls the Academy “home.” In 2022, she earned a Doctorate in Education from Northeastern University and holds a Professional Diploma in Educational Administration. A strong proponent of educating the “whole child,” she believes schools should offer various core programs, including athletics, arts, technology, and community-based service opportunities while fostering intellectual, creative, social, and physical development.
Union Catholic High School
Sister Percylee Hart, Principal
Sister Percylee Hart is the beloved principal of Union Catholic High School in Scotch Plains, NJ. With decades of visionary leadership, she has transformed UC into a model of excellence, innovation, and faith-based education. Under her guidance, the school has exemplified its core values and earned numerous accolades. A devoted Sister of Mercy, Sister Percylee inspires generations through her commitment to nurturing students’ growth and encourages them to “become what God calls us to be..”
First Foot Forward
