PS 222 Katherine R. Snyder School - Brooklyn, NY

P. S. 222 is a high performing Pre K – 5 elementary school located in Brooklyn, New York. We currently have 835 children enrolled in our school. We are a barrier free school, which services special needs students. Within our school community, we have various types of classes to support our students. For example, we have Enrichment classes; an Integrated Co-Teaching class on each grade; four Self-Contained classes; and three Autism Spectrum Disorder ICT classes.

Differentiated Professional Development is provided to all staff members. We promote collaboration and the sharing of ideas. All lessons are taught using the Workshop Model. Teachers conduct a Think Aloud to demonstrate and model the concept, incorporate problem solving, critical thinking, technology, and student-to-student discussions. We incorporate academic and personal behaviors along with Habits of Mind to ensure students are college and career ready.

We have developed many systems to use assessment data to analyze and improve student and school performance. Assessments are aligned to CCLS and are scored using an item analysis. Teachers analyze and measure progress throughout the year. Teachers meet weekly to discuss trends, effective strategies, and multiple entry points, which help differentiate instruction. At-risk students are identified and provided with Tiered intervention services.

In order to achieve the level of success we have had over the years, we promote a close home/school relationship. Our home/school connection flourishes due to our established systems of community involvement. Throughout the year, we encourage parent/guardians to be active members of their child’s education. Parents are invited to celebrations, award ceremonies, and performances. We survey families on their needs and preferences and host parent information workshops based on topics of interest.