Location
Grade Levels
- 9-12
Learning Models
- Personalized Learning
- Project-Based Learning
- Real World Learning
Governance
Grades Served: 9-12
Students Served: 256
About
One of hundreds of new small coherent high schools formed in New York City in the last decade. Launched in 1997 with support from New Visions for Public Schools, the Humanities Prep team embraced a mission “to provide a philosophical and practical education for all students, an education that features creativity and inquiry, encourages habitual reading and productivity, as well as self-reflection and original thought.” As a democratic community, they strive to exemplify the values of democracy: mutual respect, cooperation, empathy, the love of humankind, justice for all, and service to the world. It’s also a member of the New York Performance Standards Consortium.
Humanities Preparatory Academy, located in Manhattan, New York, is a small, public high school dedicated to fostering a community of learners who are passionate about social justice, critical thinking, and creative expression. Serving students in grades 9 through 12, the school emphasizes personalized learning, collaboration, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
The school’s curriculum is centered on humanities-based, interdisciplinary learning, with a focus on real-world applications and critical inquiry. Students engage in Socratic seminars, project-based assignments, and portfolio assessments, encouraging them to think deeply, articulate their ideas, and connect their learning to social issues.
Humanities Prep is part of the New York Performance Standards Consortium, which allows students to demonstrate mastery through performance-based assessments rather than standardized tests. This approach promotes a deeper understanding of content and skills while fostering intellectual curiosity and self-directed learning.
The school offers a supportive and inclusive environment, with small class sizes and a strong advisory program to ensure that each student receives personalized guidance and mentorship. Extracurricular activities, including clubs, arts, and community service opportunities, allow students to explore their interests and contribute to their school and local communities.