P.S. 101Q The School In The Gardens - Forest Hills, NY

P.S. 101Q is an exemplary elementary school that epitomizes strong school culture and dynamic family engagement within a diverse community in Queens, NY. Having over 30 languages spoken and a high percentage of students who are bi-lingual is a strength of the school. 101Q is a high performing school in terms of academics. However, our most impressive accomplishments have been centered on the social emotional climate of the school. Although, the school was somewhat high performing, it was in the bottom third of schools within similar demographics. As we have partnered with Yale University's Center for Emotional Intelligence, we have seen more of our students engaged in their own growth and potential. The backbone of our work is built on the social emotional components of our curricula. We focused on child-centered, progressive education as we partnered with Columbia University's Teachers' College. We narrowed our achievement gap because of the fundamental belief that all students can reach their potential. Another strength of the community is the collaboration between all constituents. Collaboration became the cornerstone of our work. As Ms. Paniagua often says, "Together We Are Better." Enrichment for the Arts and Movement is just as important as the academics. Therefore, our parents have partnered with the school to bring enrichment residencies and after-school programs to all our students. The successes of our students have been a result of a collaboration that focuses on the whole child.