Brooklyn Prospect Charter School: What to Know Before Applying

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School: What to Know Before Applying

Choosing Brooklyn Prospect Charter School for your child is a pivotal decision that requires careful research and thoughtful consideration.

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School (BPCS) offers a strong curriculum and holistic development. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about BPCS, including its history, application process, and more, to help you make an informed choice.

History of Brooklyn Prospect Charter School

David Saunders and Michael Goldstein, two Brooklyn fathers and educators, founded Brooklyn Prospect Charter School in 2002 to address the need for a high-quality public school in the Park Slope neighborhood. The school’s mission is to empower diverse students to become passionate learners, critical thinkers, and future changemakers. Over the years, Brooklyn Prospect has grown into a highly respected institution, serving students across Brooklyn with a focus on academic rigor and community engagement.

Grades and Programs Offered

BPCS offers a K-12 college-preparatory curriculum designed to prepare students for success in higher education and beyond. The school follows the internationally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) program, providing a structured pathway from kindergarten through to high school graduation.

The curriculum spans across key academic areas, including:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • History
  • Foreign Languages
  • Theology (in select grades)

Additionally, Brooklyn Prospect Charter School offers a range of extracurricular programs in arts, sports, and leadership, ensuring a well-rounded experience for every student.

The IB Program at BPCS

One of the core pillars of BPCS is its emphasis on the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, known worldwide for its rigor and comprehensive approach. The program divides into two phases:

  1. The IB Middle Years Program (MYP) serves students in grades 6-10, focusing on developing skills essential for academic and personal success. Students explore subjects such as math, science, English, and history while cultivating critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
  2. IB Diploma Program (DP): For grades 11-12, the IB DP is an intensive two-year program that prepares students for university-level work. The DP includes six academic subject areas, along with an extended essay and a final project, requiring students to demonstrate both academic mastery and creativity.

Through the IB framework, BPCS helps students cultivate lifelong learning skills and global awareness, making them well-prepared for future academic challenges.

Unique Features of Brooklyn Prospect Charter School

  • Diverse Student Body: BPCS prides itself on its multicultural environment, reflecting the diverse community of Brooklyn. The school serves students from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, enriching the educational experience and fostering a global perspective.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: In 2013, Brooklyn Prospect moved into a newly constructed building, which features modern classrooms, a library, a gymnasium, and a cafeteria. These facilities are designed to support both academic achievement and student well-being.
  • Holistic Development: BPCS emphasizes the importance of not only academic success but also personal and emotional growth, helping students become well-rounded individuals ready to contribute to society.

BPCS Admissions Process

The admissions process at BPCS is competitive, as the school consistently receives more applications than it can accommodate. However, the school uses a blind lottery system to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all applicants, regardless of academic standing or personal recommendations.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for admission to Brooklyn Prospect, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Age: Applicants for kindergarten must be at least five years old by December of the enrollment year.
  • Residency: Only students residing within New York City are eligible to apply.
  • Behavior: Students must have a clean disciplinary record, with no expulsions or excessive suspensions.

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Application Process

The application process is straightforward:

  1. Visit the BPCS website to request an application form.
  2. Register an account and complete the online application.
  3. Standardized Test: Students in grades 1-5 must take a standardized test as part of the application process.
  4. Essay Submission: For grades 6-12, applicants must submit a writing sample as part of their application.
  5. Lottery: After all applications are received, a lottery is held to select students for admission.
  6. Notification: Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status in the spring.

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School Application Deadline

You can submit applications online through the Brooklyn Prospect Charter School website or contact the admissions office at (718) 643-1086 for more information. Be sure to check the application deadline and submit all materials on time.

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School Curriculum and Instruction

BPCS bases its curriculum on the IB program, which emphasizes inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary connections. Teachers deliver an engaging and challenging academic experience that fosters curiosity and academic growth.

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School Extracurricular Activities

BPCS offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities that help students develop skills outside of the classroom:

Sports

  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Football
  • Swimming
  • Golf
  • Volleyball
  • Track and Field
  • Wrestling

Clubs and Activities

  • Academic Clubs: Math, Science, History, English Clubs
  • Arts Clubs: Art, Drama, Music, Dance Clubs
  • Service Clubs: Student Council, Environmental Club, Amnesty International Club
  • Other Clubs: Anime Club, Chess Club, Robotics Club, Debate Club

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Student Life at Brooklyn Prospect Charter School

Student life at Brooklyn Prospect is vibrant and inclusive, offering numerous opportunities for involvement in school activities, leadership roles, and community-building events. The school values diversity and works to ensure that every student feels valued and supported.

BPCS provides robust student support services, including academic interventions, counseling, and mentorship programs, to ensure that each student’s needs are met. With a student body that includes students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds, the school fosters a sense of belonging and community.

Faculty and Staff

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School’s faculty and staff are highly qualified and dedicated to the success of every student. Teachers are certified by the New York State Department of Education and are chosen for their expertise and experience in working with diverse student populations.

Parent Involvement at Brooklyn Prospect Charter School

At Brooklyn Prospect, parent involvement is highly encouraged. The school regularly communicates with parents through newsletters, conferences, and special events. Parents are also invited to participate in volunteer programs, workshops, and educational seminars that support both their child’s education and their personal growth.

FAQs

What is the Rank of Brooklyn Prospect Charter School?

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School is ranked #5 out of 85 public high schools in New York City and #226 out of 2,339 public high schools nationwide, according to Niche.

What Are the Admission Requirements?

To apply, students must have a strong academic record and submit an application, which may include an entrance exam or writing sample depending on grade level.

How Many Charter Schools Are in Brooklyn?

There are currently 92 charter schools in Brooklyn, New York, each offering unique programs and educational opportunities.

Conclusion

Brooklyn Prospect Charter School provides an exceptional K-12 education, combining academic rigor with a strong sense of community and inclusivity. Suppose you’re looking for a school that offers a challenging curriculum, a wide range of extracurriculars, and a commitment to fostering students’ personal growth. In that case, Brooklyn Prospect may be the perfect fit for your child.

Good luck with your application process!

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