Thurgood Marshall Academy Lower School

Thurgood Marshall Academy Lower School in Manhattan serves students from Pre-K through 5th grade in an intimate setting, with an enrollment well below the citywide median. The school is known for its nurturing environment, emphasizing social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and culturally responsive teaching, particularly for its predominantly Black and Hispanic student population. Parents consistently report overwhelmingly positive experiences, reflected in high satisfaction rates. Academically, the school's English Language Arts proficiency is near the citywide median, though math proficiency is a concern, falling below the median. Strengths include a very low suspension rate, indicating a safe and supportive climate, and small class sizes. The school offers a rich integrated arts program, including dance, violin, and jazz, with students regularly visiting museums, and incorporates daily meditation. While the building has limited facilities, such as few bathrooms and no gymnasium, the school fosters strong community involvement, supported by an active Parent Teacher Association and a Grandparents Club.