ps 11 pta FUNDING PRIORITIES

At PS 11, we believe that every student deserves a rich, well-rounded education that goes beyond the basics. That’s why the PTA invests over $800 per student in essential enrichment activities that ignite curiosity and foster a love of learning. From vibrant dance classes and dynamic drumming sessions to exciting capoeira lessons, martial arts and inspiring choir performances, we weave a tapestry of experiences into our curriculum.

Our commitment extends to vital areas like swim lessons, garden science, free academic support, and recess coaching—all essential components that enhance our students' educational journey. This dedication is above and beyond the full-time enrichment staff and programming supported by our school budget.

To continue this tradition of excellence, we rely on your generous support. Donations to our General Fund will be directed to where the need is greatest, ensuring that all our programs thrive and evolve. If you have a specific program you're passionate about and wish to contribute directly, please contact us at Development@PS11BK.org.

Together, we can continue to provide our children with the diverse and enriching experiences they need to excel and grow.

PS 11 offers free academic support extend days on Wednesday and Thursdays  for students whom need more help mastering strategies and concepts. The program is op[en to all students Kindergarten-5th grade. PS 11 teachers lead the academic support programs to ensure high-quality instruction that aligns with the classroom curriculum and expectations. The PTA is seeking to raise $50,000 to support this program each year.

This fund supports the purchase of school supplies for our families in need as well as back up supplies for teachers and the administration.  The PTA is able to purchase supplies in bulk which allows for economies of scale and cost savings. The PTA is seeking to raise $30,000 to support this need each year.

For over a decade our garden science program continues to evolve from its original small outdoor garden space of exploration to a comprehensive agriculture and life science syllabus that is fully embedded in our core curriculum. Our current program encompasses PreK - 3rd grade with modules on garden science, nutrition, culinary arts and hydroponics. Our goal is to continue expanding our programming through 5th grade by: i) building an aquaponics lab with related programming; and ii) introducing a food justice curriculum and student-led food justice community projects. Funds will also support the salary of our garden teacher. The PTA is seeking to raise $45,000 to support this program each year.

PS 11 has partnered with incredible dance institutions and remarkable artist such as Alvin Ailey alumni, Dwana Smallwood, Sherece Donalds, and Brother Matt to provide weekly dance lessons and djembe drumming lessons to our students. Our partnerships provide a comprehensive introduction to both dance as a technique and a historical and creative art form. As we continue to engage in arts and partner with other hallmark institutions in NYC the cost to do so is significant at $180,000 per year. We seek any and all support in ensuring our dance residency is fully funded each year and can continue to grow and thrive with the goal of extending to all our students each year!

At PS11, we firmly believe in the scientific research evidencing that quality music education is a basic building block of intelligence that supports academic achievement and healthy social development over the long-term. Accordingly, we thoughtfully invest in integrating music into our core curriculum and have a full-time music teacher on staff. Our primary music program consists of: i) Djembe Drumming for all PreK & Kindergarten students; ii) Choir classes with the NY Metropolitan Opera Urban Voices Program for all 1st grade students, iii) violin instruction for all 2nd grade students; iiii) guitar instruction for all 3rd grade students; and v) 5 elective bands, consisting of 20+ instruments, offered to 3rd -5th graders.  With your support, we will be able to sustain broad student access to our extended day band program as well as elevate our music instruction and performance with better instruments. The PTA seeks to raise $40,000 to support extended day instruction (before and after school), $15,000 to support the choir program, and $20,000 for new instruments and maintenance of our current stock of equipment.

PS11 partners with Kids In The Game, a leading provider of sports-based youth development programs, to facilitate a safe environment for all students to engage in a variety of games and activities during recess. The coaches facilitate fair play and model problem solving and teamwork through games designed to incorporate all skill levels.  This approach eliminates the need for natural aptitude and instead uses the games to achieve character building goals. Kids in the Game provides six coaches during each recess session as well as training for our school aides who assist the coaches in maintaining a safe environment for our students.  Our goals is to raise $82,000 for this program each year.

A central tenet of PS11’s mission is to ensure equity in education among our diverse student body, and as such we seek to provide broad access to our fee-based after school enrichment  program and early drop off program. Students can choose from an extensive list of visual and performing arts, sports and STEM classes including but not limited to piano, ballet, hip hop, basketball, tennis, chess, coding, robotics, cooking, animation, and ceramics. An hour of universal fun fitness is included with the classes and homework help is offered for an additional fee from 5-6pm. The average cost per class per term is $395 plus $75 for homework help. Early Morning drop off begins at 7am and costs $395 per term per student. Any and all donations are welcomed to help us continue to support our students and families in need.