Harlem Children’s Zone

Harlem Children’s Zone, Inc (HCZ) is a multi-site, multi-program community organization that provides a unique and comprehensive interlocking network of education, social and health services, and recreation to more than 21,000 children and adults within a 100-block area of Central Harlem. Run by the acclaimed children’s advocate Geoffrey Canada, the Harlem Children’s Zone believes that for children to succeed, all of their needs must be addressed, so we work to ensure children are safe, healthy and able to access the resources necessary to educate themselves.

Our goal is to create a “tipping point” in the neighborhood so that children are surrounded by an enriching environment of college-oriented peers and supportive adults. HCZ is nationally and internationally recognized for its early and progressive intervention programs, and has been called “one of the most ambitious social-policy experiments of our time” by The New York Times.

.

Promise Academy Charter Schools

The mission of HCZ Promise Academy Charter School is to provide a first-rate, year-round, extended-day K-12 school for students living in under-performing school districts. Opened in 2004, HCZ Promise Academy serves over 1,000 children in two elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. Each year, more students and grades are added with plans to ultimately reach over 2,000 children. Our schools are rooted in the belief that all students are capable of academic and personal success when they are surrounded by parents, teachers, and mentors who provide support and maintain the highest of expectations.

All children and their families have access to the full array of supportive services of the Harlem Children’s Zone community network. The rigorous academic program and extensive support systems are designed to prepare students to attend, excel in, and graduate from college. The academic year consists of 210 days of school, an increase over the 180 days required by law, which includes a 25-day mandatory summer program. The academic day runs from 8:00am to 4:00pm, approximately 20% longer than the vast majority of surrounding public schools. Our schools consistently enforce a rigorous code of conduct, dress code, and emphasize personal relationships among students, teachers, and families.

.

Who should teach at Promise Academy?

Teaching at Promise Academy is unlike teaching anywhere else. The school is a family—united around making sure our kids develop into well-rounded, healthy, successful adults. As a teacher here, you will take your place in a team that seamlessly surrounds children in a safe, enriching environment, making sure they reach their full potential. And you will make a difference. Our teachers are life-long learners themselves: always reading and discussing how they can become better at their jobs. Our teachers love the collegial approach of the staff and administration, and appreciate the regular professional development opportunities we offer. Our teachers still have the spark they had when they first made the decision to become teachers. They’re motivated by being a part of an organization that is making history, making it happen; breaking the cycle of poverty for an unprecedented number of children.

.

.