Paula Hedbavny School

PS/MS 278 is a K to 8 neighborhood school dedicated to giving students a balanced education through academics, the arts, and practical, hands-on experiences. Most students stay through middle school.

The school integrates healthy living in a variety of ways. Students grow plants both indoors, with hydroponic kits and towers, and in outdoor planters. Healthy foods are offered at lunch, and mindfulness activities help students focus and manage stress. Students can join track and field at the Armory, and participate in basketball, volleyball, cheer and other sports.

Elementary students in the upper grades get hands-on learning through a partnership with the Salvadori Center, building and testing simple structures like bridges and towers using everyday materials.

Middle schoolers explore theater-based careers and see Broadway shows. They also meet in small advisory groups and join restorative circles to work through conflicts.

During the school day, students attend weekly specials including STEM, art, gym, health, library, music, and Spanish. Separately, the school also offers teacher-led enrichment activities and extracurricular programs throughout the year, such as sports, art, academic support, and Lego activities. All students study
Spanish.

PS/MS 278 works with long-time partners to offer extra activities and support. Inwood Community Services runs a free after-school program with homework help, STEM, arts activities, and fitness. Creative Art Works provides after-school activities for grades 5 to 8, including printmaking and digital art.

Students who need extra help get tutoring and small-group support. One period a day is set aside for students to focus on academic or social needs, which may also include enrichment, for example, book studies. Grades 3–8 may attend Saturday Academy for additional learning.

PS/MS 278’s work with new immigrant students in recent years has shaped how staff welcome all students. On the first day, new students get a school tour, and staff make sure that they know where to go and who to ask for help.

Students have access to free eye exams and glasses, dental work, and mental health services. A social worker is on site. The school also hosts a food drive for the community.

The school opened in 2004, and moved one mile south in 2024 to a new, six-floor building shared with PS 18 Park Terrace. Perks include an art room with a kiln, a dance room, and a combined gym and auditorium. The shared spaces require coordination between the schools. (Lydie Raschka, interview and official reports, January 2026)