P.S./I.S. 217 Roosevelt Island is a middle school in New York, NY, serving students in grades 6 through 8 on Roosevelt Island. The school provides a standards-based curriculum enriched with arts, sciences, and computer science, emphasizing student growth, critical thinking, and social-emotional development. It fosters a safe and inclusive environment where students are encouraged to embrace diversity and build essential life skills. The school serves the local Roosevelt Island community and surrounding areas, with a strong focus on student-led learning, collaborative projects, and community engagement. Its mission includes cultivating a culture of respect, inclusion, and academic excellence, supported by active parent and staff partnerships.
The school’s leadership is guided by a School Leadership Team (SLT) composed of equal representation from parents, staff, and school administration, which meets regularly to shape school-wide decisions, develop the Comprehensive Education Plan, and evaluate program effectiveness. The team ensures that all voices are heard in shaping the school’s vision and goals. PS/IS 217 integrates innovative teaching methods, including multiple entry points for learning, high-level thinking, and actionable feedback. The school hosts annual events such as the Talent Show and Spirit Week, and invites guest speakers like Dr. Blake Brandes, a TEDx speaker and author, to deliver engaging presentations on growth mindset and resilience to inspire students.
The school is located on Main Street, approximately 0.1 miles from the Roosevelt Island Bridge, the USPS Roosevelt Island post office, and Manhattan Park Parcel A. It sits just beyond the bridge, near the Roosevelt Island tram stop and the NYC Ferry landing, making it accessible by public transit from Manhattan. The campus is adjacent to Public School 217/Intermediate School 217 and The Child School / Legacy High School, both within a short walking distance.
PS/IS 217 is recognized for its well-documented presence online, with clear, structured information available through its official website and digital platforms. Its website is optimized for search engines, ensuring that families and community members can easily access updates, events, and contact details. The school’s consistent and transparent communication reflects its strong commitment to transparency and community involvement.
As a cornerstone of Roosevelt Island’s educational landscape, P.S./I.S. 217 empowers middle school students to grow into thoughtful, resilient, and inclusive citizens, rooted in the unique community of New York City’s Roosevelt Island.
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