About Charter Schools

Overview

A charter school is a public school approved by the State of New York and governed by an organization – in this case, East Harlem Tutorial Program. Charter schools are free to attend, and students cannot be denied admission based on language, disability, academic skills or other special needs.

Most charter schools require students to submit a short application for admission. However, if more students apply than the school can accept, by law the school must hold a lottery. The lottery is completely random, meaning that each student who submits an application has an equal chance of being admitted. However, legally, some students can receive preference. Our school gives preference to students residing in Community School District 4 (East Harlem), as well as English Language Learners.

In addition to having to meet the same standards as traditional public schools, charter schools are also accountable to the authority that granted their original charter. Increased accountability, greater flexibility, and an organizational culture of high expectations are the hallmark traits of charter schools.

Non-Discrimination Policy

We reserve the right to place students in another grade based on post-admission information.

A charter school shall not discriminate against or limit the admission of any student on any unlawful basis, including on the basis of ethnicity, national origin, gender, disability, intellectual ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, athletic ability, race, creed, national origin, religion or ancestry. A school may require any action by a student or family (such as an admissions test, interview, essay, attendance at an information session, etc.) in order for an applicant to either receive or submit an application for admission to that school. However, East Harlem Scholars Academies provides an academic program specifically designed for English Language Learners. These preferences have been approved by the school’s authorizer and are permissible.

For more information on charter schools in New York, visit the New York City Charter School Center online at www.nyccharterschools.org, or call 212-437-8300.