East Side Community School

East Side Community School, serving grades 6-12 in Manhattan, is widely recognized for its strong sense of community, inclusive environment, and dedicated staff. The school emphasizes a challenging and engaging college preparatory curriculum, where students develop graduation portfolios and present their work in roundtable discussions. Parents frequently commend the personalized attention and communication, noting a "private-school feel." Student surveys reflect a high sense of safety and fair conflict resolution. The school boasts an exceptionally high 98% graduation rate and 90.5% college enrollment rate, both well above citywide medians. Academically, middle school ELA and Math proficiency rates are around the citywide median. Distinctive features include an advisory system providing comprehensive student support, a commitment to celebrating diversity and social justice, and a wide array of after-school programs, arts, sports, and travel opportunities.