Innovation Charter High School

Renaissance Charter High School for Innovation in Manhattan offers a high school experience focused on nurturing academic success, emotional health, and self-directed lives through an innovative, project-based, and experiential learning approach. Parents express very high satisfaction with the school, and students often describe a welcoming and inclusive environment where teachers are supportive and provide opportunities for growth. Distinctive offerings include a Software Engineering Program with AP courses, a Culinary Arts program, and unique week-long enrichment projects and field trips. While the school aims to prepare students for college and careers, its graduation rate (84.0%) and college enrollment percentage (51.5%) are below citywide medians. Regents exam pass rates are mixed, with US History (72.2%) being a relative strength, but math (e.g., Geometry 1.5%, Algebra I 20.8%) and some science scores are notably low. Student surveys indicate that while many feel safe in common areas, a significant portion report concerns about bullying, drug/alcohol use, and physical fights. Teacher feedback has also pointed to challenges with discipline and order, and the school experiences higher teacher turnover. The school serves a diverse student body, including a substantial percentage of students with disabilities, and employs a two-teacher model in academic classes to support varied learning needs.