BUGS Charter School Opens to 6th Graders Fall of 2013
Frustrated with the middle school options in District 15? BUGS, the Brooklyn Urban Garden Charter School, is officially set to open their doors in the fall of 2013 to 110 sixth graders.
Joyce Szuflita, of NYC School Help, told A Child Grows in Brooklyn that:
BUGS initially grew out of street corner and on-going kitchen table conversations between local parents and educators concerned about the number of middle school options in District 15. Once we began taking seriously the possibility of creating a new school, we assembled our academic team and realized the potential we have to not just add needed middle school seats, but to create a cutting edge, developmentally appropriate educational model for the middle years. The selection of an environmental sustainability focused curriculum allows us to offer educational programming that will not only engage the hearts and minds of students, but is a perfect vehicle for teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). We feel strongly that our model will offer this community not just much needed additional middle school seats, but a rich, engaging, rigoruous and meaningful educational experience for our students that can launch them not just to excel in high school, but to seize opportunities for all of their lives.
The school, who recently announced that they will be setting up shop in the Bishop Ford High School building (500 19th Street), accepts students via random lottery, with priority given to kids who reside in District 15. Instructions for those interested in applying, are scheduled to be released in early 2013, and all applications are due by April 1, 2013.
Although the dates have not yet been announced, information sessions for prospective parents are planned for February and March of this year.
Parents can check the BUGS website for the latest application information, and/or sign up for their newsletter by emailing admissions@BUGSbrooklyn.org. Be sure to include your contact information, your child’s name, and when they are entering the 6th grade in your email.
Image via BUGS