PS 3 was founded in 1971 by parents seeking an alternative to what was then the very traditional education offered by PS 41, a school nearby. It is a haven for some very capable teachers who are put off by what they see as a cookie-cutter approach to education and who want to put their own imprint on their classes. Classes at PS 3 mix different ages and abilities, and children generally stay with the same teacher for two years. Every classroom looks different, and the personalities of both the teacher and the children are apparent in how the rooms are decorated. Many teachers welcome parents to help out in their children's classrooms, and parents often linger to talk with teachers or other parents in the parents' lounge.

"We have had our twins at ps3 for the past three years and they have had extraordinary teachers- all have been creative and rigorous. When we were looking at schools we found the difference... read more