Your independent guide to NYC public schools

Hi,

We just learnt that we will be moving to NYC this summer.  We have been in Paris for the past year (previously Texas), and my son is currently a first grader at the American School here.

My husband's work location is midtown Manhattan, and we'd like to live close by... but also want to make the decision based on elementary schools, and which are best academically?  I'm finding all the info on this site pretty overwhelming... any recommendations?

Our son is highly gifted - he's in a regular first grade classroom now (one of the youngest, but still extremely bored - they're not doing much for him).  The one place he's really found some challenge has been in French (they moved him from beginners to the top level after just 3 months) and his private piano work (he composes his own work, jazz improv, etc). He loves math & science (he explores online).

So I guess G&T is the way to go...  but there seem to be so many options but all depending on where you reside etc.    Do they offer G&T testing in the summer also for new families?  If so, when, and would we need to have a residence in NYC before then?

As you can probably tell, I'm pretty overwhelmed right now....  Any guidance for how to start?

thanks!
Joanna

Yes, there is summer testing. You need to contact the DOE. Testing is generally handled by the borough in which you live so you will need to have proof of address.

Unfortunately, gifted programs are not guaranteed after 1st grade. They are on a space-available basis, which means there are limited drop-out spots available for a relatively high number of applicants moving into the city or fleeing their gen ed or private schools.

I would strongly suggest looking into a number of back-up options and not depending on a G&T placement. Your best bet would be to maximize your chances--test for G&T, move into a good school zone, and apply for as many good unzoned charter schools as you can.

The DOE is required to find your child a seat in a school in your overall district, but that's it--no guarantee of G&T, zoned school, etc. This year is probably the most problematic in recent history in terms of placement, so cover every base you can.

Good luck!

Thanks!  What would you recommend as good school zones in Manhattan?

Is there still time to apply to charter schools?  I thought their process would be completed by now for spaces this fall...

Joanna

If he is really gifted, you can get him tested at various posh manhattan schools and even try to get him skipped a grade. Unfortunately many parents also deem their kids as gifted so their is quite a competition... Manhattan is the type of place where networking really helps when getting your kid into the right school. Unless you're speaking about public school and in that case try to get him into mott hall.

Another option for your family would be to move to Forest Hills, Queens, which is 15 minutes from midtown via the Long Island Rail Road.  There are three excellent elementary schools, all within close walking distance of the rail road station:  PS 101, PS 144, and PS 196.  All three of these schools have extremely strong academic programs, as well as excellent arts programs, and regularly place children in Hunter, and the top selective middle schools in the City.  You may find good articles about living in Forest Hills in Time Out NY City Kids and The New York Times.  As for the schools, check out their listings on InsideSchools, as well as the school websites.

I live in Forest Hills (former home of the US Open, by the way), and my son attended PS 196, and went to the G&T program there (a pull out program, not self contained); however, it was our experience that the school was so strong that probably at least 20 percent of the study body would be considered G&T these days.     

The Forest Hills community is extremely child friendly, with lots of parks and playgrounds, and you can walk to everything (movie theatres, restaurants, shops, etc.)  There are also great afterschool programs at a variety of local Ys, community centers, and also at 101 and 196 (not sure about 144). 

Good luck.