The IDEAL School of Manhattan is New York’s only K-12+ independent inclusion school. Our philosophy expands the definition of diversity to include ability and economic status. The school’s dedication to its mission and generous financial assistance packages mean that our student body reflects the city's diversity more than any other private school. 

IDEAL’s core principles are Inclusion, Diversity, Excellence, Acceptance, and Leadership. IDEAL’s curriculum reflects a research-based commitment to inclusion education as a means for academic excellence. IDEAL teachers design instruction that recognizes the unique talents and strengths of the students in their room, whether they are currently below, at, or above grade level. 

IDEAL’s curriculum and programs are multicultural by design, and social justice and anti-bias instruction are built-in and given dedicated instructional time. The arts are woven through the academic curriculum, and athletics include everyone, no matter their ability. Service-learning opportunities and life skills instruction round out the IDEAL experience.

Lower School (K-5) classes are co-taught by a general educator and a learning specialist. Middle School (6-8) classes build students’ social skills and introduce more complex academic concepts. High School (9-12) is student-driven and flexible, focusing on developing life skills and preparing students for postsecondary education. The Next Steps Transition Program (18-21) operates as an alternative or ramp to college, supporting students’ continued progress, educating them and their families about adult services, and finding compatible internships in and out of school. 

Please visit www.theidealschool.org to learn more about our school and our new home at 5 Hanover Square in Lower Manhattan with five-borough accessibility.

Location:

The IDEAL School of Manhattan
5 Hanover Square
New York, NY 10004
212-769-1699