Our Approach

Transforming Lives Through Inclusive Education

Defining An Inclusive Approach

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world". Nelson Mandela
At Inwood Academy, we believe that education is power—power to transform lives, uplift communities, and break barriers. Serving the vibrant neighborhoods of northern Manhattan, Harlem, and The Bronx, we provide an inclusive, high-impact education designed to ensure that every student, regardless of background or starting point, has the opportunity to succeed.

A Model for True Inclusion
Our deep commitment to inclusivity led us to successfully advocate for a change in New York State law, allowing students for whom English is a new language to receive priority admission. Why? Because we believe that language should never be a barrier to success—and neither should socioeconomic status, learning differences, or systemic inequities.

Beyond Academics: Shaping Future Leaders

At Inwood Academy, learning isn’t just about grades—it’s about developing minds that challenge, create, and lead. Our students are assessed through:

💡 Deep text analysis and discussion that sharpen communication skills.
💡 Strong written expression to ensure students can articulate ideas clearly.
💡 Mathematical and scientific reasoning to foster analytical thinking.

But we know that true success extends beyond academics. That’s why we teach our students to act with intention and compassion, creating a school culture that celebrates every identity and background.

Setting the Bar High—And Beyond

Our bold mission is clear:

🎓 Graduate 100% of our students and set them on a path to thrive—whether in college, careers, or entrepreneurial ventures.
💡 Provide multiple pathways to success because we recognize that not all students follow the same road.

Inwood Academy graduation rates exceed the State, the City and our District. Our unwavering commitment ensures that every student—regardless of zip code or circumstance—has a future filled with possibility.

Setting High Expectations

We will graduate 100% of our students and ensure they have multiple pathways to succeed in life. This far exceeds NYC Public School five-year graduation rates, which are particularly low for the most vulnerable students: 45% for Special Education students, 48% for English language Learners, and 72% rate for General Education students.

While all of our students could go to college, we know it's not a good fit for all of them so we provide an education that is preparing students for college and career—not just one or the other.

Privately Funding The Gap

We chose to serve the Inwood and Washington Heights community and operate three private facilities therefore receive less funding a year than NYC traditional public schools and the charters who share space in Department of Education buildings.

We chose to serve this community and our English Language Learners who are not designated to receive Special Education services, even though these services are not funded by the Department of Education. Support our students. Donate today.