Programs

Elementary School

Grades 3-5

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  • We foster confidence in elementary school by setting up real challenges, nurturing students' talents, and supporting them in meeting their goals.

    Students begin each day with a meeting focused on how they can integrate the School Creed into their daily decision-making. At the end of each day, students celebrate small wins, and each student gets an individualized moment with the teacher before they leave for the day.

Mark Abreu ‘18, Peddie ‘22, Morehouse ‘26

When I came to Harlem Academy, the work was much more challenging. I needed that. I learned to push myself and get out of my comfort zone, to not settle or give in to what’s easy. Harlem Academy changed my life.

Core Curriculum

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  • Literacy

    Elementary school students spend more than two hours each day focused on reading, writing, listening, and speaking. This program serves as a bridge from our primary school approach to our novel-driven study in middle school. Beyond whole-group instruction, students participate in small reading groups that meet throughout the week, read independently, visit the library, and have personalized opportunities for practice. Whole-class readings and the library collection have been carefully selected to include authors and protagonists of color.

  • Mathematics

    The Math in Focus Singapore math program focuses on teaching fewer concepts with greater depth and more complex problem solving than typical programs in the United States. By beginning with concrete examples, moving to pictorial demonstrations, and then connecting to abstract concepts, students acquire skills to tackle increasingly difficult problems. In elementary school, small group work in pullout math labs helps meet individual needs for enrichment. Students also use the online personalized learning tool IXL to support their learning in the classroom and at home.

  • Science

    Our goal is to engage students in the process of scientific investigation and inquiry, preparing them to succeed in middle school science and beyond. In elementary school, we focus on developing scientific and engineering skills, non-fiction reading and writing skills, and content knowledge. At each grade level, students study earth science, physical science, and life science. Third graders explore "Structures of Life," "Motion and Matter," and "Water and Climate." Fourth-grade units include "Soils, Rocks, and Landforms," "Energy," and "Environment." Fifth graders study "Mixtures and Solutions," "Earth and Sun," and "Living Systems."

Co-Curricular Programs

List of 5 items.

  • Advisory

    Our team leads weekly activities to develop habits that live up to our pillars and School Creed. Elementary school students focus on how each person contributes to a joyful community of learning where all voices are heard. 
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  • Extended Day

    Students are welcome on our campus from 7:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. In the morning, elementary students have breakfast in the café before starting class. At the end of each day, students in grades 2-5 are welcome to stay for enrichment, offering a chance to discover new interests and deepen their exploration of areas they already enjoy, before a quiet period to complete their homework.  
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  • Physical Education and Recess

    Harlem Academy is committed to supporting students’ holistic wellbeing. Our physical education program (held twice weekly) gives students a sound understanding of foundational skills. We value teamwork, sportsmanship, responsibility, and the opportunity for all participants to grow from their experiences. Free play (held daily) is a chance to play soccer, basketball, four square, or other games in the schoolyard. Breakfast, lunch, and snack are offered daily with a focus on lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
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  • Technology

    Each elementary student has a laptop and an email account, and significant time is taken to teach basic problem solving, web navigation, typing and word processing, and digital safety and citizenship. Technology is incorporated into each subject, giving students many opportunities to practice with these tools in a safe environment. Students leave elementary school demonstrating responsible technology use and the ability to use technology for research, communication, collaboration, and creativity.
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  • Visual and Performing Arts

    In partnership with Harlem School of the Arts, primary students take arts classes twice per week. One period each week is dedicated to visual arts (drawing, painting, and sculpture), and one period each week is dedicated to performing arts (music, dance, and theater). Highlights of the elementary program include a three-year study of keyboards, learning comic book art, and performing improvisational theater. 
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View our full Curriculum Guide

Learn More

View our primary school and middle school programs

Visit the admissions page
See our secondary school and college enrollment
Read the Harlem Academy Journal for a window into the program
Harlem Academy
655 St. Nicholas Avenue
New York, NY, 10030

P (212) 348-2600
F (212) 348-3500
info@harlemacademy.org

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Harlem Academy is an independent school (grades K-8) that drives equity of opportunity for promising students, guiding them to thrive at the highest academic levels and one day make a mark on the world.