286 E 2nd St #C, New York, NY 10009

I attended this school and later returned as a substitute teacher, hoping to give back to the community. Unfortunately, my experience was deeply disappointing and disheartening.This school operates under a clear culture of exclusion and privilege. The student body is overwhelmingly composed of wealthy, privileged children, most of whom come from families that live far outside the community. After dismissal, the street is constantly blocked by high-end vehicles—Range Rovers, BMWs, Teslas—as parents swarm in to pick up their kids. It’s a daily display of entitlement that reflects the school’s priorities.While the school claims to value diversity, it’s obvious they only accept just enough minority students to meet diversity quotas. True inclusion is nowhere to be found. Local children from the surrounding community are consistently denied admission, reinforcing the school’s elitist atmosphere.Paraprofessionals and substitute teachers are treated with blatant disrespect. We’re spoken down to and excluded from staff conversations. It’s clear we’re not seen as real educators, just temporary labor to fill a need.In short, this school presents itself as progressive and inclusive on paper, but in practice, it’s a space that prioritizes whiteness, wealth, and appearances over genuine equity and community connection. If you’re a person of color, an educator from the local area, or simply someone who believes in fairness and respect, be prepared for a harsh reality.