Established in 2008, Believe High Schools Network (BHSN) manages and fosters the development of the three charter schools in Brooklyn within its network: Williamsburg Charter High School, Northside Charter High School, and Southside Charter High School.
The schools feature a rigorous college-preparatory program of study. Students must pass all classes with a 70 percent average, four years of core subjects and at least one year of Latin. The core requirements of four years of English, math, science, history and foreign language are structured to broaden student perspectives while remaining relevant. All grades function as small academies supporting student needs academically, socially and emotionally.
Each grade-level team includes a social-emotional counselor, a social worker, two academic guidance counselors, grade-level manager and a director of student life to ensure each student in each class feels safe and supported. There are supportive relationships with faculty, extended instructional periods and opportunities afterschool and on Saturdays for additional academic support. There is also a wide array of programs for students with special needs including speech therapy and English Language Learners (ELLs).
All students are assigned an advisor who is their guide and mentor throughout their high school years. Advisors conduct a study hall-type class, which includes study skills, life skills, career skills, individualized student support activities and goal setting for the years in high school and beyond. The advisor also interacts with parents; they are the first “go to” adult for any significant issues regarding personal and academic growth.
CEO Eddie Melendez was heavily influenced by his own high school experience growing up in Brooklyn.
“I wanted to create the same environment for our students – a memorable four years, a place they considered a home, preparation for the next phase of their lives where they could have access to every opportunity without leaving their neighborhood,” said Melendez.
Families may fill out an application for their preferred school or all three schools. Admission is conducted through a random lottery by law so no performance or minimum standard is required to gain entrance. Once an application is received, families are encouraged to attend an open house/tour. In April, the public lottery is held and students are notified of their placement. All students who do not receive a seat are kept on a waiting list.
For more information about Believe Schools, call 347-464-7601 or log on to www.believeschools.org.
– Catherine M. Lozada
