What is a Charter School in NYC?
If you’re researching middle schools in New York City, you’ve probably come across charter schools. But what exactly is a charter school, how does it differ from a traditional public school, and is one right for your child?
This page answers those questions — and explains what St HOPE Leadership Academy, a free public charter school in Harlem, has to offer your family.
Charter Schools vs. Public Schools in NYC
Charter schools are publicly funded and free to attend, just like traditional public schools. The key difference is governance: charter schools are independently run by a nonprofit board rather than the NYC Department of Education. That independence gives them more flexibility in how they design their programs, structure their school day, and serve their communities.
NYC has over 260 charter schools operating within the city’s school system — a small fraction of the more than 1,800 schools citywide. Each one has its own mission, culture, and academic focus.
Why Families Choose Charter Schools in NYC:
More flexibility in programming
Because charter schools set their own curriculum and school culture, they can focus on specific priorities — like college preparation, STEM, leadership development, or serving English Language Learners.
Inclusive and community-focused
Many NYC charter schools include provisions to specifically serve the neighborhoods and populations they were built for. St. Hope was founded to serve the children of Central Harlem, including English Language Learners, students with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged families.
Free to attend
Charter schools are public schools and receive funding by the state and federal government. There are no tuition fees.
Accountability for results
Charter schools must meet state performance standards to keep their charters. If they fail to perform, they can be closed. This accountability structure means charter schools are motivated to deliver results — and generally, charter school students outperform peers at district public schools on state exams.
What Makes St HOPE Leadership Academy Different
St HOPE is a K–8 charter school located at 222 West 134th Street in Harlem. We’re a single-site school — not a large network — which means we can give each scholar and family the individual attention they deserve.
Here’s what sets us apart:
– 98% of scholars report feeling safe at St. Hope, compared to the citywide average of 82%
– St HOPE alumni received $181,750 in scholarships last year
– 55% of our teachers have 5+ years of experience
– Named 1 of 2 middle schools in the country to receive the 2021 National School of Character distinction
We are a high school preparatory middle school, meaning everything we do is oriented toward helping scholars succeed in high school, college, and beyond. Students can earn Regents credit before leaving middle school, take college campus tours (often led by St HOPE alumni), and access free college planning workshops through our alumni program.
We Help Middle Schoolers Dream a Bigger Tomorrow.
Download our Parent Info Packet to learn how.
“The combination of freedom and accountability for success allows charter schools to try new approaches, respond to community needs, and put student learning first.”
NYC Charter Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply to St HOPE Leadership Academy
STEP 1: Apply
Use School Mint to create an account and complete your application.
STEP 2: Receive notification of your child’s acceptance
Acceptances are distributed via email.
STEP 3: Register Online
Time to enroll! Each charter school has their own registration process. To learn more about registering your child at St HOPE, visit our admissions page.