Who We Are
CPE1’s Mission
Our mission is to educate children to become thoughtful citizens of a democratic society by providing an education that is investigative and reflective, encourages choice and expects responsibility and discipline in all areas of learning and social behavior. Classrooms represent the developmental needs of every child as well as their interests, strengths, and passions. The community works collaboratively, supported by the contributions of parents, children, and professional educators to realize the potential of human capacity.
Our History
Central Park East I was founded in 1974 by teachers with strong beliefs about learning and community. CPE1 quickly grew to be a model of progressive education in public schools. Educators from around the world continue to visit to study our practices and design.
Central Park East I has kept its deep roots in East Harlem. At CPE, kids from the neighborhood had the same learning experiences then found mostly in private schools: doing hands-on work, learning through long-term projects, singing as a whole school, being outdoors, being treated with deep respect. Today, students from the early days of the school keep coming back; adults remember what they learned at CPE, and how it changed them.
Today, CPE1 still believes children's home lives are important. The teacher, child and family collaborate to understand each child. This family collaboration continues to make CPE1 a special school.
Our Philosophy
Central Park East I believes in doing meaningful work. Staff and children rely on each other to grow and be productive. We believe in individual choice and freedom, and we also believe we all are responsible to and for each other.
Classrooms are designed to teach work and responsibility,. Every day, children choose the projects they want to work on, the materials they will use, and the big ideas they will explore. Children learn above themselves, their community, and the world around them.
Traditions and routines play an important part in the building of community life at CPE1. Our whole school community comes together frequently for discussion, for singing, and for celebration. Each class makes its own snack every day. Younger children eat in their classrooms, on real plates, in warm conversation, Fresh air and physical activity are daily parts of the CPE1. Extra time for recess, regular walks through Central Park, and weekly ice skating keep our children moving.
Practices and Traditions
CPE1 offers rich learning experiences for children, in the classroom and outside in the world. The community traditions surrounding classrooms enrich that classroom learning.
To find out more, please check out our family handbook’s section about schoolwide practices and traditions.