One of our favorite kids' museums is expanding its learning opportunities.
The New York City Department of Education just announced that construction will begin on a 306-seat STEAM focused Pre-K center in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, in conjunction with the New York Hall of Science.
Benefits of a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) approach, including increased critical thinking skills and group problem-solving skills, will certainly pique parents' interests.
“The entire staff at NYSCI—educators, researchers, Explainers—is thrilled to be partnering with DOE to develop a science-themed Pre-K program based on our Design-Make-Play methodology and implement it at a dedicated school on our Corona campus,” said Margaret Honey, president and CEO of the New York Hall of Science. “This unique collaboration leverages the strengths of both organizations to develop the next generation of STEM leaders among the youngest students."
The debut center, which is slated for a 2021 opening, is the trailblazer of this new type of educational effort. Attendees and their families will have access to one of the most beloved family attractions in Queens, as the museum plans to provide specialized coaching for teachers and programs for children. The facility itself will feature 17 classrooms, an outdoor playground, two exercise rooms and a community room.
Additionally, the DOE is aiming to make learning accessible for everyone with this center, especially NYC's youngest. Recent reports state third graders in 2018 were the first to participate in a universal Pre-K for All, and they outperformed all other testing grades in ELA and Math—another reason why the school will be a welcomed addition to the Corona neighborhood.
“Free, full-day, high-quality Pre-K puts our kids on the path to success, and we have made it a right—not a privilege—for every 4-year-old in New York City,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “This new Pre-K Center is proof of our commitment to expanding Pre-K to meet the needs of every community, and investing in state-of-the-art STEAM education for our children.”
Visit schools.nyc.gov to learn more and check out the happenings on our NYC School Calendar 2019–2020.
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