Introduction and Overview

Thank you for your interest in Harlem Academy, where dedicated families, teachers, and supporters work together to provide educational opportunity to children whose potential might otherwise go unrealized. 

Established in 2004 with a first grade class of 12 students, the school currently serves 57 students in first through fourth grades from our school house on 111th Street.  One grade is added each year, as the school builds toward a vision for an elementary and middle school program in Harlem that matches the standards of any independent school in New York City.  Harlem Academy sets itself apart with:

• Longer and more challenging academic blocks, smaller classes, and an extended day format where students arrive as early as 7:30AM and stay as late as 6:00PM.
• Financial contributions from all attending families with equal access for low- and moderate-income families based on a sliding scale formula for setting tuition. 
• Admissions standards that require dedicated family partnership and demonstration of an applicant’s potential to succeed in a rigorous academic program.
• Teacher hiring, curriculum development, school operations, and fundraising conducted almost entirely through the support of private partners and largely without the incumbency of public bureaucracy.
• Preparation of students from diverse, under-served populations for success at top secondary schools and universities. 

Harlem Academy’s program was developed through a grant from Goldman Sachs Foundation and in partnership with Columbia University’s Institute for Urban and Minority Education.  As the school has grown, major funding has also been received from: the A. K. Starr Charitable Trust, The Tomorrow Foundation, the Altman Foundation, Van Wagner Communications and many generous individuals with an interest in supporting transformative educational opportunities.  The school’s Board of Trustees and advisory team include eight current or former school heads, as well as leaders from business, education, and the local community. 

Our fundraising efforts are now focused on scholarships for our growing student population and capital contributions for an expanding physical plant.  The school maintains an active volunteer network and depends on dedicated supporters to spread the word about how we are making a difference.