Fifty Years of CPE

In September 1974, a small group of teachers started Central Park East, New York City’s first progressive public school. 

This year, we celebrate CPE’s impact with a mix of history and homecoming. Join us this October as we honor this treasured school.

Screening of We All Know Why We’re Here

October 8 - 6:00 to 7:30

We All Know Why We’re Here is a short documentary about one CPE class in 1979.  After the film, there will be a Q & A with students featured in the movie.

Discussion with Former Faculty and Current Students

October 18 - 10:00 to 11:00

Current fourth and fifth grade students will have a discussion with three of the teachers who founded CPE (Deborah Meier, Lucy Matos, and Michael Trazoff) as well as other teachers and parents from the early days of the school. Former director Jane Andrias will moderate the discussion. (This event is open for adult observers, but the discussion is for children.)

Alumni All-School Sing

October 18 - 1:45 to 2:40

Former students and staff will join CPE1’s current community for a special All-School Sing. Barry Solowey, our very first music teacher, returns to lead us in singing beloved songs from CPE’s songbook.

Alumni Visits to Classrooms

October 18 - 2:45 to 3:15

Former students and staff are invited into CPE1’s classrooms. See today’s learning environments and how children are continuing to learn.

Discussion of Curricula - Past and Present

October 18 - 3:15 to 5:00

Former students, former staff, and the current community discuss memorable curricula from their time in the school. Staff from across the years of CPE will facilitate this discussion of what makes these curricula important.

Fall Festival

October 19 - 12:00 to 4:00

CPE1’s annual fair welcomes all former CPE staff, students, and families. This year’s Fall Festival will feature a special area for photos and artifacts from throughout the school’s history.

Alumni Evening Gathering

October 19 - 5:30 to 10:00

Adult alumni will gather at LA Jazz Club for an evening of refreshments and music. Click here for details.

Staying in Touch

Help us plan for October events and stay let you know about anniversary events coming up in the spring. Please fill out this quick form.