Equality Charter School

Equality Charter School, located in the Bronx, New York, offers an alternative to the regular public school, with an emphasis on preparation for high school and college. The school currently teaches approximately 200 children in grades 6 through 8, with 90 percent of the children from lower socioeconomic groups. Many of these students are struggling to keep up with the national standards for their grades. As a result, Equality Charter School looks for new technology to further assist students through the learning process. In December 2011, Kristen Greco, a teacher at the school, won a subscription to WriteToLearn, an educational tool that she will use to help her students achieve greater literacy skills.

However, not all students at Equality Charter School are trying to catch up. Many already excel in their courses and need extra challenges. To meet their needs, the school offers advanced courses in math, enabling the students to take the 9th Grade Integrated Algebra Regents Exam. Additionally, the school's curriculum includes classes in science, English and language arts, physical education, art, Latin and Greek roots, and health. The school also developed a home and career class, which leads students to take responsibility for their own lives and encourages them to visualize success and use goal-setting. To prepare students for high school, the school offers admission tips and resources for parents.

Equality Charter School's primary mission is to provide children what is best for them. Using the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports system, staff and faculty encourage children to stay in school by teaching them successful and desirable behaviors and rewarding them when they follow these behaviors. The system's goal is to establish a culture where good and appropriate behavior is standard. Equality Charter School is accepting applications for the 2012-2013 school year until March 30, 2012.