NYC High Schools: A look at creative programs across the city

In New York City, there’s tons of options for teens when it comes to picking a high school. The city boasts more than 400 schools; many have quirky or out-of-the-box curriculum. While many pride themselves strictly on rigorous academics, others are tailored toward specific interests or careers.

The Department of Education encourages students to start considering high schools as early as the sixth grade, so we’ve compiled a list — it’s by no means exhaustive — of some of the city’s interesting and lesser-known high schools.

Students can specialize in fine art, dance, vocal and instrumental music, drama and film. In 2009, FSSA opened a brand-new facility at the Kaufman Astoria Studios complex, which boasts a concert hall, two black-box theatres, two dance studios, two art studios and even an outdoor rooftop performance garden. Applicants must audition.

“This is the first software engineering school in the Bronx,” says BASE’s project leader, Ben Grossman. “Graduates will be ready for continuing study.

There’s a very real chance that the kids will get good-paying jobs straight out of high school...” These programs were announced with fanfare by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg.

The Harbor School admits 115 students each year.

The transfer high school strives to build confidence in a nurturing environment. Harvey Milk is named after the first openly gay American politician, portrayed by Sean Penn in the film “Milk.”

“By the time students finish, they have a high school degree, a college degree and a whole array of real-life experience,” said Cass Conrad, executive director of School Support for CUNY.

While P-Tech focuses on IT, two more 9-14 schools will open in the fall: Energy Tech, which is paired with LaGuardia Community College, ConEd and National Grid, and the Health, Education, Research Occupations (HERO) High School in the Bronx, where students will be able to earn their RN in addition to their high school degree.

This Bronx school was founded in 2011 and uses dual-certified and ESL teachers to teach nonnative English speakers who’ve been in the country for less than four years. Native English speakers also attend. Principal Julie Nariman blends all of the students together.

“It works beautifully,” she said. “Schools get too obsessed with levels. There’s this idea that creating separate levels leads to more learning when it really doesn’t.

Powerful communication happens every day in New York City between people who speak different languages.”

Principal Courtney Winkfield emphasizes the school’s dedication to publishing student work.

“When students graduate, they’re four-time published authors. Every year, they create a book of their work and it ranges from poetry to really ambitious historical projects.”

The Academy also has a poet-in-residence, Mahogany Browne.