For 100 days, our students have been building knowledge, confidence, and community.
At each of our schools, learning extends beyond the classroom—into gardens, music rooms, soccer fields, and even across international borders. Here are just a few of the incredible experiences that have defined our school year so far:
Community High School: A Journey of Service and Discovery
This January, 39 students from CHS traveled to Guatemala for a transformative service-learning trip. Over four days, they contributed 700+ hours of community service at a family shelter— helping run camping programs, playing soccer with residents, organizing arts and crafts activities, supporting the early childhood daycare program, and participating in campus beautification projects.
Tenth-grader Sofia shared, that “After this trip, my understanding of service learning has deepened. I now recognize it not only as helping others but also as an opportunity to actively engage with and learn from the community, gaining a deeper understanding of their needs, culture, and perspectives. It has become clear to me that service learning is a two-way exchange of knowledge and support.“
Beyond service, the trip was filled with cultural immersion – students learned salsa and bachata, tried traditional Guatemalan desserts, and even zip-lined near the breathtaking Lake Atitlán.
Community Partnership Charter School Middle School: A Garden Grows in Brooklyn
At CPCS Middle, the 7th-grade students are tackling food insecurity with their hydroponic gardening project. With separate gardens in every classroom, students grow lettuce, cucumbers, kale, and herbs—all while deepening their understanding of biology.
From maintaining their crops to enjoying the harvest (hello, hydroponic-grown sandwiches!), this initiative teaches sustainability and hands-on science. And when setbacks come—like December’s “drought” over break—the students adapt and replant, learning resilience along the way.
Beyond plants, the classroom is full of life, housing aquariums with fish, snails, and shrimp, as well as small mammals like guinea pigs. This environment fosters curiosity, responsibility, and a deeper connection to nature.
Community Partnership Charter School Elementary School: The Making of a Young Musician
For fifth-grader Liam, joining the CPCS Elementary band was more than just learning an instrument—it was about discovering his voice as a leader. Liam plays the trombone, an instrument he initially found challenging but quickly grew to love. His music teacher, Mr. McKenzie, saw Liam’s dedication and encouraged his growth.
Over time, Liam’s commitment transformed him from a student struggling with scales to a musician who sets the tone—both literally and figuratively—for his peers. He has become a mentor within the band, helping younger students with finger positioning and embouchure techniques. His patience, respect, and encouragement create a positive and collaborative atmosphere in the band room, making him a role model for his classmates.
At the winter concert, as the final note faded and the audience erupted in applause, Liam felt an overwhelming sense of pride. He had come a long way from the nervous beginner who struggled with his instrument. Music had given him more than just technical skills—it had given him confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
Beginning with Children Charter School 2 Elementary: Champions On and Off the Field
The B2 Bulldogs didn’t just win their soccer league—they dominated it. Undefeated in the 9-10 age group, they impressed the league so much that they were invited to play the 11-12-year-old champions. And they won 4-0!
For Ryan, a fifth grader on the team, the most valuable lesson wasn’t just winning—it was teamwork. “Playing soccer taught me teamwork. My teammates and I had to work together. Everyone had to do their part, and that’s how we won the league.”
The team’s success was built on dedication, practice, and a strong sense of camaraderie. Coach Correa instilled in them the importance of strategy, discipline, and teamwork, guiding them to victory. Their achievements on the field are a reflection of the life skills they are developing—skills that will serve them well beyond soccer.
These stories are just a glimpse of what 100 days of school have brought to our students. But they didn’t happen by chance—they happened because of supporters like you.
Make your impact today.
As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to be part of our journey. Our goal is to rally 100 donors to support our students’ continued growth and success.
Your gift—of any size—can help fund enriching experiences like service-learning trips, hands-on science projects, music programs, and athletic opportunities.</p<
