Democracy Prep Public Schools students and leaders held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, June 28, for a new 96,167-square-foot building at 1000 Westchester Ave., which will serve 1,000 students at full capacity. The new location, near public transit options, includes over 40 classrooms, arts and science facilities, a gym, and early childhood education spaces. It also has accessible elevators and stairwells.
The building will become home to two schools this summer — Democracy Prep Endurance Elementary, which is currently housed in a temporary campus in Williamsbridge; and Democracy Prep Endurance High School, currently located in Harlem.
“This state-of-the-art facility is more than a structure, it signals the commitment that we all have in our great borough to our young scholars,” State Assemblymember Kenny Burgos, who represents the 85th district, said. “By creating supportive spaces where they can learn and thrive, we are demonstrating to them and their families that they represent our future as citizens and leaders.”
The elementary and high schools have completely separate entrances and stairwells, for safety and ease of movement. There are multiple play spaces for the elementary school and specialized classrooms for the high school like art and science labs. In addition to an indoor gym, there is an outdoor space, creating areas for play and athletics.
Nearly two-thirds of students in Democracy Prep’s Harlem high schools are commuting from the Bronx every day. Bringing Democracy Prep Endurance High School to Westchester Avenue will bring it closer to home for students. Instead of riding the subway 12 stops each way, scholars will be able to go to school in their neighborhood.
“Having been a school leader in the Bronx for four years, I know how important great schools are to this community,” Democracy Prep Public Schools Regional Superintendent Emmanuel George said. “Democracy Prep having another home in the Bronx at 1000 Westchester will give thousands of scholars access to a life of active citizenship and a future filled with limitless opportunities.”
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