In keeping with its continuous effort to communicate with the community, the Garvey School, a private, co-educational PK-8 school which utilizes both traditional and progressive teaching strategies will host an open house at its Bronx, New York location on March 23 at 5 pm
 
“The open house is expected to increase awareness about our successful school program” said Jamaican born founder and principal
June O’Conner.

“Our children will perform, greet guests and conduct a tour of the site after a presentation in our auditorium. Former parents will do mini presentations about their experiences at Garvey. It will be packed with information/stats that will be very helpful in navigating the educational system” she said.

The Garvey School is named after the late Marcus Mosiah Garvey a national hero of Jamaica. He was a visionary who understood that true education is liberating and empowering, and if it is to be, it is up to us.

“When my daughter was ready to attend school, neighborhood schools were my only option but I felt they were unequal in all respects. To get the results I desired, I created a learning environment in my living room, and shortly after in my house. As word got out that children of color were in a small group setting, and getting the benefits of one-on-one tutoring, others came knocking. The students were learning to play the piano, getting voice lessons, playing tennis, performing in plays, and participating in oratorical exercises on a regular basis, while academic progress was exceptional. Parents have a strong/earnest desire to educate their children well, and so they came to seek well for their children” O’Conner noted.

Garvey School has since been steadfastly and successfully preparing students in the Northeast Bronx to perform much better than anticipated, and to challenge boundaries in all areas. So far, it has been working; results of standardized tests, number of children who have transitioned to elite private schools, and talented and gifted program increase each year. Further, children who attend the institution are confident, articulate and ready to navigate the world. The Garvey experience includes languages: Highly trained and native speakers teach the children Spanish and French 3-4 times per week. Mandarin is expected to be on the roster in Fall, 2013. An experienced and talented musician teaches music: theory and keyboarding to all students. The youngest students are learning to play the bells. The Garvey Playhouse is a vibrant theater community within Garvey, and they perform significant productions 2-3 times per year. Students do virtual tours of 3 continents each year. They study a country in-depth, which culminates into a symposium where each child gets a turn to present. The presentations are generally interactive and require audience participation.

Up you might race; you can accomplish what you will – Marcus Garvey.