Who Are We?

Mission, Vision & Core Values

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We carefully guide and support the socio-emotional development of our learners, leading to confidence and awareness that their classroom extends beyond the walls of the school building and out into the city. Our intentional content-driven fieldwork ensures graduating students achieve success with all academic and core competencies through interdisciplinary approaches, while also learning to swim, bike, be independent, ask questions, know themselves as learners, grow vegetables and cook with them, and get what they need as humans in an ever-changing world.

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We are a community of learners dedicated to an inquiry-based, hands-on curriculum. We are focused on cultivating problem solvers who apply the skills & knowledge gained to collectively create something new. We foster a joyful school community - students, families, teachers and administrators - where every intersection of diversity is uniquely acknowledged and celebrated each and every day. Our joy is encompassed in what our students learn and how they interact with one another; in how our educators and parents engage, and all with a shared purpose: student success.

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Trust + Collaboration + Joy

 

At PS 456, we believe that communities that trust each other have limitless possibilities. Trust allows for true collaboration to exist and risk-taking to happen. Collaboration allows our collective strengths to shine. Authentic experiences ensure students take ownership and find joy in learning, and value the process.

 

We strive to create an inclusive culture where listening and acceptance creates the truest sense of belonging; where we always challenge the paradigms and perceived notions of equality and equity; where we speak up for each other and against any forms and acts of racism; where we manifest the deepest and most profound new reality that all of our differences, - ethnicity, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability, age, religious beliefs, language preference or socio-economic status -are a reflection of the beautiful tapestry of our 456 community.

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The BE Approach

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The Elizabeth Jennings School for Bold Explorers is a Progressive School. We use an interdependent and collaborative inquiry based learning directly connected to all children's lives; seeing their race, ethnicity, and culture as central to their shared educational experience leading to democratic practices that disrupt and transform institutional ways of being. We honor the way children learn best - exploring and asking questions to make learning their own. 

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BE is outdoor focused. Our saying is, “There is no bad weather, there are only bad clothing choices.” Traditions and routines play an important part in the building of community life at 456. Fresh air and physical activity are daily parts of the BE.  Extra time for outdoor learning, play, and recess keep our children moving.

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Who is Elizabeth Jennings?

Elizabeth Jennings was a school teacher whose bold actions sparked the desegregation of New York City's public transportation system. Her life and legacy paved the way for the future of the civil rights movement. Elizabeth is a model for us to follow in our ability to be the change we want to see in the world. To learn more about Elizabeth and her impact, read this article. 

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