The IDEAL School of Manhattan

The IDEAL School is an independent K - 8th grade school that offers a rigorous, individualized academic program. Under the belief that children who learn together learn to live together, we have created a student community that reflects the rich diversity of New York City. Our philosophy of inclusion instills students with respect for differences and develops empathy, social responsibility, and world stewardship.

Our team-teaching model, small class sizes, and low student-teacher ratios allow us to differentiate instruction based on individual strengths, interests, and abilities. The curriculum challenges students by promoting high academic achievement and social and emotional growth. With an emphasis on creative arts and a unique elective program, we offer enrichment and support through classes such as world languages, chess, musical theater, and media production. Our child-centered curriculum develops students who are caring, curious, and creative.

Diversity at IDEAL is both broad and deep. The school includes boys and girls of various races, ethnicities, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses. Within these groups, we seek a wide range of abilities, learning styles, and academic readiness. We aspire to be the most diverse and inclusive school in the city of New York. Inclusion and diversity lead to acceptance. Acceptance and academic rigor lead to excellence.

Diversity. Acceptance. Excellence. These three pillars underpin The IDEAL School’s mission. By keeping these principles at the fore of all aspects of school life the IDEAL community holds itself accountable to the goals it has set.