The 10 Best Charter Schools in NYC
The 10 Best Charter Schools in NYC
Innovation, Choice, and Controversy: NYC’s Dynamic Charter Sector
Beyond traditional public and private schools lies New York City’s vibrant and often controversial charter school sector. These are **publicly funded schools, independently managed** by non-profit organizations. Free to attend and open to all students via a lottery system, charters were created to offer innovative educational models and increased choice, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.
Many have achieved remarkable academic results, while others face scrutiny over discipline, teacher turnover, and their impact on traditional public schools.
NYC is home to some of the largest and highest-performing charter networks in the country, like **Success Academy** and **KIPP**. These networks often employ specific educational models, longer school days, and a strong focus on standardized test performance. Understanding the charter landscape is crucial for parents seeking alternatives within the public system.
“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” – B.B. King
| Related Topic | Primary Vibe & Focus |
|---|---|
| Guide to NYC Private School Tiers | Decoding School Types (Private) |
| The Best CUNY Schools: A Ranking | NYC’s Public University Powerhouses |
| The 10 Biggest Educational Groups in NYC | The Power Brokers (Incl. Charter Networks) |
| NYC Special Needs & Inclusive Education Guide | Navigating IEPs (Relevant for Charters) |
| The 10 Best Private Schools in NYC | The Private School Alternative |
Strategic Tips for Navigating Charter Admissions
- The Lottery is King: Admission to almost all NYC charter schools is determined by a random lottery, usually held in the spring. There are no academic requirements to apply, but preference is often given to siblings and students within the local school district. Applications are typically managed through a common online portal via the NYC DOE or directly on network websites.
- “No Excuses” vs. Progressive Models: The dominant charter model in NYC is often termed “No Excuses,” characterized by high expectations, strict discipline, longer school days, and intense focus on test prep (e.g., Success Academy). There are also more progressive or specialized charters, but they are less common. Understand the school’s philosophy.
- Co-location Controversies: Many charter schools share building space (“co-locate”) with traditional public schools, which can lead to tensions over shared resources like gyms or libraries.
- Focus on Data & Test Scores: Charter schools operate under performance contracts and face closure if they don’t meet academic goals. As a result, there is often a strong emphasis on standardized test results.
The NYC X-Factor: The Education Reform Battleground. NYC’s charter sector is a focal point of the national debate on education reform. Supporters champion their results in underserved communities, while critics raise concerns about discipline, teacher attrition, and the impact on district schools. Choosing a charter means entering this ongoing conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are NYC charter schools free?
Yes. Charter schools are public schools, funded by taxpayers. There is no tuition required to attend.
How do I apply to a charter school?
Most NYC charter schools use a common online application system, accessible through the NYC Department of Education website during the enrollment period (typically winter/spring for the following fall). Some networks may also have applications on their own websites. Admission is granted via a random lottery.
Are charter schools better than traditional public schools?
It varies greatly. Some charter networks, like Success Academy, consistently produce test scores that significantly outperform neighboring district schools. However, critics argue this comes at the cost of high student attrition and intense focus on testing. The “best” school depends on the individual child’s needs and learning style.
Ranking: The 10 Best Charter Schools & Networks in NYC
This list includes the largest, highest-performing, and most influential charter organizations and schools in the city.
1. Success Academy Charter Schools (Network – All Boroughs)
Highlight: NYC’s largest and highest-performing (by test scores) charter network. “No Excuses” model.
Justification: Success Academy is a dominant force, known for its extremely high standardized test scores, often rivaling affluent suburban districts. Its model is rigorous, structured, and demanding.
Network HQ Address: 120 Wall St, New York, NY 10005 (Address varies by school)
Network Phone: (646) 597-4642
Website: successacademies.org
2. KIPP NYC Public Schools (Network – Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan)
Highlight: Part of a national network known for college preparation and character development (“Work Hard. Be Nice.”).
Justification: KIPP has a long track record of success in preparing students from underserved communities for college. They emphasize rigorous academics alongside character strengths.
Network HQ Address: 520 8th Ave Ste 2005, New York, NY 10018 (Address varies by school)
Network Phone: (212) 991-2600
Website: kippnyc.org
3. Uncommon Schools NYC (Network – Brooklyn)
Highlight: High-performing network focused on closing the achievement gap and college readiness.
Justification: Uncommon Schools operates several top-tier charter schools in Brooklyn (like Excellence Boys and Girls). They are known for their strong results and commitment to getting students to and through college.
Network HQ Address: 826 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 (Address varies by school)
Network Phone: (212) 363-5000
Website: uncommonschools.org/our-schools/nyc/
4. Achievement First (Network – Brooklyn, Queens)
Highlight: Large network operating K-12 schools with a focus on rigorous instruction and college prep.
Justification: Achievement First runs numerous high-performing schools in Brooklyn and Queens. They emphasize a “warm/strict” culture and data-driven instruction to achieve strong academic results.
Network HQ Address: 485 Clinton Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238 (Address varies by school)
Network Phone: (718) 265-1590
Website: achievementfirst.org
5. Icahn Charter Schools (Network – Bronx)
Highlight: Network founded by philanthropist Carl Icahn, known for strong results in the South Bronx.
Justification: The Icahn Charter Schools consistently rank among the top-performing schools in the Bronx, providing a high-quality education in historically underserved neighborhoods.
Network Address: 1525 Brook Ave, The Bronx, NY 10457 (Location of Icahn 1, others vary)
Network Phone: (718) 409-3408 (Contact for Icahn 1)
Website: icahncharterschools.org
6. Democracy Prep Public Schools (Network – Manhattan, Bronx)
Highlight: Network focused on civic engagement and college readiness (“Work Hard. Go to College. Change the World!”).
Justification: Democracy Prep integrates rigorous academics with a strong emphasis on civics and active citizenship, preparing students for leadership roles.
Network HQ Address: 149 E 120th St, New York, NY 10035 (Address varies by school)
Network Phone: (212) 348-1845
Website: democracyprep.org
7. South Bronx Classical Charter Schools (Network – Bronx)
Highlight: High-performing K-8 schools using a classical curriculum model.
Justification: South Bronx Classical offers a unique, rigorous education based on classical literature, Latin, and structured pedagogy, achieving excellent results.
Network Address: 977 Fox St, The Bronx, NY 10459 (Location of SBC I)
Network Phone: (718) 860-4340 (Contact for SBC I)
Website: southbronxclassical.org
8. Harlem Village Academies (Network – Manhattan)
Highlight: Network focused on progressive pedagogy combined with high expectations.
Justification: HVA aims to blend the rigor of “No Excuses” schools with a more student-centered, inquiry-based approach, creating a unique and high-achieving model in Harlem.
Network HQ Address: 35 W 124th St, New York, NY 10027 (Address varies by school)
Network Phone: (646) 812-9800
Website: harlemvillageacademies.org
9. Beginning with Children Charter School II (Bed-Stuy/Crown Heights, Brooklyn)
Highlight: A well-established K-8 charter known for strong community ties and solid academics.
Justification: Beginning with Children has deep roots in its community, offering a supportive environment and a focus on developing well-rounded students.
Address: 185 Ellery St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Phone: (718) 302-7700
Website: beginningwithchildren.org
10. Community Roots Charter School (Fort Greene, Brooklyn)
Highlight: A diverse K-8 school focused on progressive education and inclusion.
Justification: Community Roots stands out for its commitment to diversity (intentional socioeconomic integration) and a progressive, project-based curriculum, offering an alternative to the “No Excuses” model.
Address: 51 St Edwards St #1, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Phone: (718) 858-1690
Website: communityroots.org
Check Out Our Other Education Guides
- The Best CUNY Schools: A Ranking
- Guide to NYC Private School Tiers
- The 10 Best Private Schools in Brooklyn
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