Submitted by Anna Fader on
Yesterday, I wrote/ranted about the new Kindergarten registration process and didn't get to share some other important education news. Below find some quick links to news about pre-K registration, new G&T schools and private preschool admissions, plus a response on Kindergarten admissions from the DOE.
Submitted by Anna Fader on
We wrote earlier about the NYC DOE's decision to change some of the basic principles of Kindergarten admissions. The main one that they seem to be toying with is the promise that every child who lives within a school zone is entitled to a spot at that school. The fact that families would have to apply for their neighborhood schools was dropped on parents just weeks before the kindergarten application process began and gave parents no time to seriously reconsider their options.
Yesterday the NYTimes reported on the outcome of this system, which is that many families that expected seats in their local schools are being turned away. Parents are understandably frustrated, angry and worried and DOE spokesman, Andrew Jacob's, advice that families should "wait until September" is perhaps one of the most idiotic official responses I've ever heard—as if parents are going to sit on their heels until school starts in the Fall to figure out where their 5 year olds will attend school.
Submitted by Anna Fader on
Straight from my inbox:
The Gap is turning its rotating concept store on 5th Ave. and 54th St. into a Tiny Dancers ballet studio in partnership with Ballet Tech, a tuition-free ballet school started by world-renowned choreographer Eliot Feld. On Wed., March 25, Gap and Ballet Tech will be opening their doors to NYC’s aspiring “tiny dancers.”
Each Saturday and Sunday, the store will be open for participants to drop-in, dress up, and dance their heart out with instructors from Ballet Tech. The free drop-in lessons will be in session Sat., March 28, through Sun., April 26.
Submitted by Erin on
The largest park in the South Bronx, Crotona Park is a 127 acre natural oasis containing 28 different species of trees, a 3.3 acre lake, 11 playgrounds, playing fields, and basketball courts. Most Bronxites would agree that the true gem of Crotona Park is the 300 foot public pool… it’s the perfect spot to take the kids to cool off on a hot summer day. Other big draws for families with young children who visit the park are the recreation and nature centers, both of which offer outstanding programming to introduce kids to nature. Crotona Park also has the honor of appearing in Mommy Poppins’ "Best Sledding Hills in New York City” post. For all you tennis buffs out there, Crotona Park’s 20 tennis courts are home to the annual Bronx Pro Tennis Classic.
Submitted by Erin on
At nearly 3,000 acres, Pelham Bay Park is the largest park in New York City (take that, Central Park!). Home to Orchard Beach, the Bartow-Pell Mansion, the Pelham-Split Rock Golf Course (the only 36 hole course in NYC), and a stone’s throw away from City Island, Pelham Bay Park provides almost any distraction you’re looking for to spend a day outdoors with the kids. From hiking to horseback riding to biking, this park has it all. The only negative aspect of Pelham Bay Park can be the crowds during the summer, but this is mostly an issue at Orchard Beach. With 3,000 acres, there’s plenty of space to go around!
Submitted by Erin on
The Bronx Museum is a wonderful resource for art lovers in the Bronx. Its exhibits tend to be fresh, exciting, and uniquely urban. However, we recommend planning ahead if you’re visiting with the kids in tow. Visit the website and take a look at the upcoming events. Quite often, the weekend events are free and catered towards children. Visiting just to tour the galleries may be a bit boring for kids if there are no workshops or activities planned. Beginning June 21st, 2009, there will be a groundbreaking exhibit installed along the length of the Grand Concourse. Dubbed the “Tree Museum,” artist Katie Holten has designed a ‘museum without walls’ as a celebration of the Grand Concourse’s 100th birthday. We cannot think of a better museum for kids than one without walls!
Submitted by Erin on
Barretto Point Park may be small, but its position right along the banks of the East River makes it a must-see for families looking for a waterfront recreational option in the Bronx. The park’s access to the East River makes for some interesting amenities, such as piers perfect for fishing and a site from which to launch kayaks and canoes. The park’s recent claim to fame was that it was home of the hugely popular "Floating Pool” for the 2008 summer season.
Submitted by Erin on
Located in the heart of the South Bronx, Brook Park is described as a “garden oasis” in the city. Brook Park is home to a bird sanctuary, chickens, and vegetable beds. Bronx youth and adults are introduced to indigenous teachings, and can take part in Labyrinth walks, art and dance workshops, a summer film series, park cleanups, and even canoe tours. The park prides itself on building multi-cultural bridges and has welcomed visitors from around the world.
