CHILDREN'S WORKSHOP SCHOOL (THE)

The Children’s Workshop School (CWS), located in the East Village of Manhattan, is a unique public elementary school (PS 361) known for its commitment to progressive education and child-centered learning. Serving students from Pre-K through 5th grade, the school operates on a philosophy that values the whole child, emphasizing social-emotional development alongside academic rigor. Its curriculum is notably hands-on, often utilizing long-term, interdisciplinary projects that encourage students to explore their interests, think critically, and take an active role in their own learning process.

A defining characteristic of the Children’s Workshop School is its strong sense of community and collaborative culture. The school employs a "multi-age" classroom structure, where students of different grade levels work together, fostering a supportive environment that encourages mentorship and peer-to-peer learning. By prioritizing democratic values and student voice, CWS aims to create a classroom atmosphere that mirrors a small, cohesive community, ensuring that every student feels known, heard, and valued as they navigate their formative years.