Two New Charter Schools May Open In District 21

The Department of Education (DOE) is holding a hearing tonight at I.S. 228 David A. Boody (228 Ave S), at 6pm, to gain feedback from the community about the applications of two new charter schools that may open in District 21.

The first school on the agenda is Hebrew Language Academy (HLA) Charter School, which has a projected enrollment of 474 students and would serve grades K-5. HLA is a Hebrew dual language charter school that already has a location in Midwood.

“Our school provides students with a sophisticated core curriculum in English language arts, mathematics, the sciences, social studies, art, music, technology and physical education. We incorporate Hebrew language instruction across the curriculum through a partial immersion proficiency model,” according to the school’s website.

The people behind Mentora International Charter School have also expressed interest in joining District 21, with a projected enrollment of 400 students, serving grades 9-12. This is the school’s first location.

Its curriculum is designed to “develop students’ intelligence, creative minds and ethical spirits, contributing to wisdom, compassion, and leadership in a global society,” according to the school’s website.

According to New York State law, the Department of Education is required to hold a public hearing to solicit comment from the community in connection with any proposal for a charter school, within 30 calendar days of the chancellor’s receipt.

District 21 school district includes Gravesend, Coney Island, Brighton Beach, and Bensonhurst.

To read about how the hearing went, click here.

Correction [11:45pm]: A previous version of this article stated that the hearing was held by CEC 21. It was organized by the DOE. The article has been amended to reflect this.