What To Expect at a NYC Middle School

You’ve witnessed their growth. You’ve celebrated their milestones. And now, you’re looking forward to what comes next. As elementary school is coming to a close, your child is entering new territory — middle school. With this next chapter in your family’s life, many things are on your mind. You may start to ask questions such as…

What should I know before my preteen enters this new stage?

What can I expect at a NYC middle school?

How can I choose the best learning environment?


At St HOPE Leadership Academy, we want to equip families for what awaits their preteens. The fact is, there are unique things to expect as you consider charter middle schools in NYC. Below, find valuable information that’ll help you navigate this journey.

Join us at St HOPE’s upcoming Open House

Want to experience a middle school with dedicated teachers, personalized instruction, and leadership development programs where your middle schooler can succeed? Explore St HOPE’s upcoming Open House schedules.

I’m considering St HOPE. What do I need to know?

St HOPE is a charter middle school in NYC that prioritizes every scholar’s unique learning style. Adhering to the commitment of charter schools to achievement, St HOPE teaches values such as absolute determination and responsibility to middle schoolers, encouraging them to do their best academically.St HOPE is a charter middle school in NYC that prioritizes every scholar’s unique learning style. Adhering to the commitment of charter schools to achievement, St HOPE teaches values such as absolute determination and responsibility to middle schoolers, encouraging them to do their best academically.

How do I apply for charter middle schools in New York City?

Charter middle schools in NYC have a designated period where families can submit applications. When there are more applicants than available seats, we typically use a lottery system to determine enrollment. To ensure placement, families choose to apply to many charter schools that fit their child’s needs. The great thing is, submitting an application is easy. Learn more about applying to St HOPE here.

What can I expect in a middle school environment?

Maybe this is your first middle school child. You remember your own experience, but what exactly should your child expect as they enter this new season? Ultimately, you want your preteen to have a positive and rewarding journey in middle school. At St HOPE, you can expect these things in your child’s learning environment:

  • High school and college prep: Our academic program is designed to help middle schoolers prepare for the rigor of high school, college, and beyond. Our advisors help scholars think ahead by asking about their college and career interests beginning in sixth grade while providing them with the tools they need to succeed in middle school.
  • Diverse learning opportunities: More than performing well on standardized tests, we want to see our scholars thrive on things that interest them. Whether they’re passionate about athletics, digital arts, or the arts, there’s room for your middle schooler to grow.
  • Character development: We integrate character development into every part of our learning. The H.A.R.L.E.M. values (Honor, Absolute Determination, Responsibility, Leadership, Excellence, Mission) are modeled by our teachers and woven into class discussions, allowing scholars to absorb and apply these values in school and life.

What are N.Y. State Regents examinations?

N.Y. State Regents exams are tests given to students beginning in eighth grade to align with the state’s standards. The tests are prepared by committees and testing specialists, to provide a baseline for evaluating the academic quality provided by each school. 

Starting in eighth grade, scholars at St HOPE are equipped to take two of the N.Y. State Regents exams, including U.S. History and Earth Science.

The Regents exams help identify areas where schools can improve instruction and offer families insights into college and vocational options for their children. Scholars who pass these Regents exams in middle school will have a head start on the state requirements for a high school diploma.

Searching for a charter middle school in NYC?

As you evaluate your options for middle schools in New York City, we’re honored that you’re considering St HOPE Leadership Academy. We encourage interested families to apply early. It typically takes about 5 minutes to submit a St HOPE application.