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We teach our students the vital skills they’ll need for the future, and just as importantly, to love learning now.

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A Love of Learning

Smiling young girl sitting at a desk in a classroom filled with other children, colorful educational materials, and cubby shelves in the background.

At Explore Schools, our mission is to provide students with the academic skills and critical-thinking abilities they need to succeed in a college-preparatory high school. We are proud of our school culture, which is characterized by hard work, achievement, and mutual respect between students and adults.

A network of 6 schools, Explore Schools offers:

  • A rigorous and inclusive academic program

  • Co-teaching model in Kindergarten through 5th grade

  • An extended school day

  • Common Core-aligned curricula

  • An array of enrichment classes

  • Individualized counseling and high school placement support

Three boys in blue Explore Charter School uniforms reading books in a school library, colorful bookshelves, and windows in the background.
Three diverse girls standing confidently in a school hallway with classroom display boards and posters in the background.
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Explore Schools Locations

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Charter schools are public schools that are run independently from the city’s Department of Education. We are authorized by the state and free and open to all New York State students.

  • Explore Schools gives the following admissions preferences:

    • Siblings of currently enrolled students receive first preference.

    • Students who reside in Community School District 17 (Explore, Empower, Exceed) or District 18 (Excel) receive second preference.

    • Students whose legal parent/guardian is a staff member at Explore Schools will receive a staff preference.

    • All other students who live in New York State will receive final preference.

    • 15% of incoming Kindergarten seats will be set aside for students who primarily speak another language at home.

  • For grades 1 and up, we do not hold a lottery. We accept students from our waitlist as spots become available. All you have to do is fill out a waitlist application. Applications are processed on a rolling basis, so the sooner you bring it in, the better!

  • All of our schools are public schools. We do not charge tuition to attend.

  • Yes. Explore Schools are open to all students, including students with special needs.

  • Yes. All of our schools offer free breakfast and lunch to students.

  • Explore Schools offers transportation for students in grades Kindergarten through 5th, if eligible. For students in grades 6 through 8, our schools offer half of full-fare metro cards to eligible students.

  • Yes. All of our students are required to wear uniforms. We have resources available to help with cost and procurement.

  • There are 5 core subjects: Math, Reading, Writing, Social Studies, & Science. In addition to core content classes, students have enrichment classes and small group instruction. Small group instruction is dedicated time for teachers to work with students in small groups to provide individualized math and ELA support.

    • In ELA, we use a standards-based and critical-thinking-aligned curriculum. In grade 3–8, we use Expeditionary Learning and Core Knowledge in K–2

    • Math is rooted in interactive, student-led inquiry: we use AF Navigators across all grades, K–8. We also use Math Stories in K–3 to help students develop number fluency and a general love of learning.

  • We offer a number of enrichment classes across our upper schools. From Dance, Theatre, Visual Arts, Band, Advanced High School Placement, and Physical Education, student have the option to participate in a number of enrichment classes throughout their time in school.