The Gateway School

The Gateway School Overview

The Gateway School, located on Manhattan's Upper West Side, is an independent institution dedicated to transforming the lives of children aged 5 to 14 who face language-based learning disabilities and attention deficits. Established in 1965, the school has a rich history of providing specialized education tailored to the unique needs of its students.

The mission is clear: to develop bright children who learn differently into skilled, strategic learners and confident self-advocates. The school serves students with various challenges, including dyslexia, expressive and receptive language delays, reading and writing disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and executive function disorders.

Curriculum and Instruction

The school's curriculum is independent, integrated, and individualized. It weaves together the skills and strategies necessary for learning academic content. This approach ensures students are prepared to successfully participate in general classrooms, including college preparatory high schools.

Gateway's program is comprehensive, addressing all aspects of a student's development, especially how language affects learning, thinking, and feeling. Students engage in small classes led by faculty skilled in direct, explicit, and multisensory instruction, tailored to each student's needs.

Academic Programs

• Reading and Writing: Utilizing the Orton-Gillingham-based reading program, starting with Preventing Academic Failure (PAF), followed by a structured reading comprehension program. Writing instruction uses the Hochman Method, applied across all subjects.
• Mathematics: Employs an adapted version of Singapore Math, supplemented by math enrichment programs.
• Social Development: Focuses on overcoming challenges in social communication and interactions with peers and adults, helping students navigate the impact of language and attention difficulties.
• The Arts: Offers visual arts, music, and movement classes to encourage creativity and expression.

Student Body and Faculty

The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio, with approximately 160 students enrolled. The Lower School typically has homerooms of 10 to 11 students with two teachers. Middle School advisories average 8 to 10 students with two advisors. This structure promotes personalized attention and support.

Gateway's faculty demonstrates a commitment to excellence, with 80% holding advanced degrees. The school is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS), highlighting its adherence to high educational standards.

Location

The Gateway School is located at 211 West 61st Street, New York, NY 10023. It remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for learners with unique challenges, fostering an environment where every student can flourish and achieve their goals.