Your questions, answered.


We know choosing a school is a big decision. We're here to make the process as smooth as possible for your family.


  • How do I apply for admissions to School in the Square?

    Joining our community is simple! We welcome everyone to apply, and our students are selected through a random lottery held each April. Because we are deeply rooted in our neighborhood, families living in Community School District 6 receive a special preference.


    We know how much your child’s education matters, so we’ll reach out with results immediately after the lottery. If you don’t receive a seat right away, don’t lose heart—we continue to welcome families from our waitlist throughout the summer and into the fall!

  • What grades does School in the Square serve?

    Currently serving students from PreK through 11th Grade, School in the Square is proud to be expanding. We will celebrate our first graduating class and become a full PreK-12 experience in the 2027-2028 academic year.

  • Do you follow the Department of Education’s Calendar?

    We're already counting down to next year, and we can't wait to welcome our students back to School in the Square for SY 2026–2027!


    Our full academic calendar is now available in English and Spanish. You can view and download it on our Academic Calendar page.


    A quick note on how we build our calendar: We align our calendar with the NYC Department of Education where it works for our community, and we've made thoughtful adjustments in the places where a different date better supports student learning at School in the Square.

  • Do I have to reapply every year?

    Once your child joins the School in the Square family, they have a home here through graduation! You won’t ever need to re-apply for future school years.


    If we aren't able to offer your child a seat this year, please don't be discouraged. We would love to see your application again next year as our community continues to grow!

  • Can I visit the school?

    Absolutely! There is nothing we love more than showing families what life is like at School in the Square. Sign up for an Open House to explore our spaces and hear the vision from our leadership team.


    Can’t make it to a scheduled session? No problem! Just send a quick note to enroll@schoolinthesquare.org and we’ll help you coordinate a visit.

  • Do the students wear uniforms at School in the Square?

    At School in the Square, we wear our uniforms with pride! The policy was actually created by our very first students to reflect our school spirit. For a full breakdown of the uniform requirements, please feel free to contact our enrollment team at enroll@schoolinthesquare.org.

  • Do you have special education services?

    We have Integrated co-teaching classes for each grade.  Additionally, we have a dedicated Social Emotional Learning team to provide counseling services for our students.

  • Do you offer students Metrocards or busing?

    School in the Square works with the Department of Education to obtain Metrocards and yellow bus services for our students. Students at S2 are eligible for transportation services at the same level as students in traditional Department of Education students. 

  • Do you have sports teams?

    Absolutely! We have a vibrant sports program for both boys and girls that we’re incredibly proud of. Whether it’s volleyball, basketball, flag football, soccer, or softball, there is a place for every student to jump in, compete, and show their S2 pride throughout the seasons!

  • How much access do students have to technology?

    At School in the Square, all students receive a personal Chromebook for use during the day and at home, including weekends, vacations, and if needed, summer break.

  • Do you offer a summer school program?

    At School in the Square, we’re committed to seeing our students succeed all year long. Our Summer in the Square program helps bridge the gap between school years, offering small-group instruction tailored to each child’s unique academic needs.


    It’s not all work, though! We love giving our students the chance to explore, whether through optional trips to New York’s iconic museums or the unforgettable experience of sleepaway camp. It’s the perfect blend of growth and summer fun.

  • Who is eligible to apply to School in the Square?

    All students who reside in New York State are eligible for admission to School in the Square. As per NYS Charter School Regulations Section 119.5, students are accepted for admission to  School in the Square by lottery. Preferences are given to eligible applicants in the following order:


    1.Students who attended the school the previous year and are returning to the school. (Returning students do not need to re-apply.)

    Siblings of students enrolled in the school. 

    Children of currently employed School in the Square staff members.

     

    2.Students residing in CSD 6 who meet the admissions criteria preference for English Language Learners (for incoming 6th grade applicants only)


    3.Students residing in CSD 6