NEAR WEST INTERGENERATIONAL SCHOOL

Near West Intergenerational School is a Title I public charter elementary school that is part of the Near West Intergenerational School school district, located in Cleveland, OH with about 236 students offering grade levels from Kindergarten to 8th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 19 teachers, Near West Intergenerational School has a student/teacher ratio of about 12:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

The Near West Intergenerational School (NWIS), located in the Ohio City neighborhood of Cleveland, is a unique public charter school founded on the belief that meaningful connections between generations enrich the learning process. By intentionally integrating senior citizens into the daily life of the classroom, the school creates a multi-generational community where students and older adults collaborate on projects, share life experiences, and foster mutual respect. This model is designed to promote social-emotional growth alongside academic achievement, aiming to build a more inclusive environment that bridges the gap between the school and the surrounding neighborhood.

Academically, the school emphasizes a project-based and student-centered curriculum that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and community engagement. As an "intergenerational" institution, it prioritizes small class sizes and a supportive atmosphere that celebrates diversity and individual development. By situating itself within the heart of the Near West Side, the school acts as a community anchor, providing a collaborative educational space that prepares students to be empathetic and active citizens while keeping senior residents engaged and valued within the local community.

For more information, contact Near West Intergenerational School at (216) 961-4308 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.