Where Curiosity Meets Leadership

We strive to see our children discover their passions, talents, and power to enrich their communities.

Free. Inclusive. Designed to Inspire.

At Elm, every child deserves access to an exceptional education — no exceptions. As a free public charter school, we combine rigorous academics with project-based learning in a safe, inclusive environment where students are known, challenged, and inspired.

Here, children don’t just learn — they think critically, create boldly, collaborate deeply, and grow into confident leaders.

Wholehearted Learning

School life at Elm is intentionally designed to develop the whole child — academically, socially, and emotionally.
We nurture students holistically so they come to know themselves deeply.

Through collaborative learning, self-reflection, and meaningful challenge, students build confidence, resilience, and character that extends far beyond the classroom.

Experience the Energy. Join the Community.

Come see why so many families choose Elm.

Step inside our classrooms and see students leading discussions, designing projects, and collaborating with purpose.

Curiosity is nurtured. Excellence is expected. Leadership starts here.

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Leading with kindness and heart

Our teachers lead by example — with passion, kindness, and a love for helping kids grow. They guide, encourage, and inspire every student to do their best, both in and out of the classroom.

Our Team

A New Chapter Ahead

The familiar foundation of our elementary school expands, as we open the doors to a spectacular new building dedicated entirely to the thriving minds of middle school students.

Here, within these walls of bold, future-forward design, a new era of learning begins, promising not just classes, but an immersive experience where intellectual curiosity is ignited and young visionaries are forged.

This expansion is not just about a new building — it’s about expanding opportunity. We are building a comprehensive K–8 experience where students grow from curious learners into confident, capable changemakers.

Priscilla Pan Walton

Founder & Executive Director

Our Campuses

The Elm Difference

of families say that the school staff work hard to build trusting relationships with families like them.

hrs

Elm students spend over 8 hours of hands-on, project-based learning each week.

of Elm Students meet or exceed growth goals in literacy each year, outscoring NY State by an average of 20% each year.

Day in the Life

Whether they’re exploring new ideas in class, creating art, playing outside, or working together on projects, students are supported by teachers who truly know and care for them. Want to see what a day here looks like? Come experience the joy of learning at Elm.

Day in the life

Challenge that Inspires. Creativity that Delivers.

We set high expectations, blending academic rigor with the encouragement and tools that students need to succeed with confidence and pride.

Our teachers spark curiosity and help every child reach their full potential through daily small-group instruction, student-engaged assessments, and project-based learning.

Academics

The faculty at Elm have made me into a charter school “believer”.

Alex Quinteros and Invonne Matute

Parent

Read the full testominial

Our Community. Their Stories.

Hear directly from the parents and guardians who experience Elm’s impact every day — in their children’s confidence, growth, and leadership.

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Admissions Process

Applying is
easy...

Applying is straightforward and open to all families. Explore the process below and take the first step toward an exceptional education.

Application

Available now till April 1st

Elm accepts applications online or in person at any of our family events.

Lottery

April 1st will be lottery day!

Students are randomly selected through a blind lottery. The lottery will be overseen by a certified, independent auditor. All families will be notified of their lottery status (whether they are selected or placed on the waitlist) via a letter mailed to their home address in early-April.

Enrollment

April – August

After receiving an offer, parents will be directed to SchoolMint to fully enroll their child. It is important that you register your child by the enrollment deadline or else your seat will be forfieted. If you decline your seat and decide at a later time that you would like to claim your forfieted seat, you will have to reapply and join the waitlist.

Waitlist

After April 1st

Any prospective learners who are not offered a seat during the lottery or apply after the lottery, will be placed on a grade-specific waitlist. Learners that are offered a seat are given 1-2 weeks to accept the offer and fully enroll, otherwise the offer will be rescinded and the seat will be offered to the next child on the waitlist.

Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.

Benjamin Franklin