From the beginning, OCS was very interested in our story and how they could help my daughter with her individual needs. At every parent-teacher conference, I am greeted with warm hugs and honest feedback on their observance of her behavior, academics and socialization skills. I was elated when my daughter made the honor roll for the first time. I am proud of her progress and believe that the opportunity she was given at OCS has helped her succeed and thrive in a safe, nurturing and caring environment.  It has made all the difference in our world. Thank you OCS!"
​-Quenia Cepeda, OCS parent

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Our comprehensive approach

Students at OCS are supported by an extensive team of social workers and learning specialists to address their social and emotional needs. The services provided by this collective group of trained staff play a critical role in keeping students on a successful path to graduation. Each grade is assigned a learning specialist and a social worker who work directly with students inside and outside of the classroom.​ 

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The teacher-student relationship

OCS’s low pupil-teacher ratio creates a learning environment that allows students to receive the individual support they require to grow. By comparison, the average pupil-teacher ratio for all NYC schools is 15:1. ​

The teacher-staff relationship

Social workers and learning specialists train instructional staff on how to effectively customize learning for each student. Additionally, general education teachers collaborate with special education teachers fives days a week.

The OCS impact

The real impact of our approach is seeing the significant growth that our students demonstrate relative to their interpersonal skills and heightened interest in learning. Additionally, students with disabilities at OCS graduate at rates higher than Community School District 3 and NYC.