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 was founded in 1974 by teachers with strong beliefs about learning and community.  CPE1 grew famous be a model of progressive education in public schools. 

Researchers studied and wrote books about the school. Today, educators still visit from all around the world.

In the old days, families chose Central Park East for the same reasons today’s families do. Students learn creatively and collaboratively. Teachers know and care for every child. Families are known and respected.

From its early days to today, Central Park East I does things differently.  As soon as you walk in, you know the school is special.

How We Learn

Our students learn by doing.

Children do hands-on work every day. They design long-term projects, face setbacks, and find solutions. They study their own identities and their classmates’. They go outside every week to study nature, social studies, and art.

Our classrooms motivate students. Each class has hundreds of new, interesting books. In each classroom, children take care of a pet, cook or bake their own snack, clean, organize, and help each other in real ways. Children have high standards for each other and themselves.

Motivated learners learn better. Children study intently because they choose their projects. By they end of first grade, most CPE1 students are reading at or above grade level; most got started in pre-K, reading recipes and doing real work in their classroom.

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.