Professional Children's School

Professional Children's School. Founded in 1914, it is an independent college-preparatory school in New York City designed specifically for young performers, athletes, and artists. The institution provides a flexible academic schedule to accommodate the rigorous professional commitments of its student body, allowing them to pursue careers in fields such as Broadway theatre, classical music, ballet, and television. Throughout its history, the school has been integral to the education of numerous prominent figures in the entertainment industry and beyond.

History

The school was established in 1914 by Jane Harris Hall and Gertrude L. Fehr to serve the children of the Ziegfeld Follies and other vaudeville performers who needed an education adaptable to touring schedules. Its early location near Times Square placed it at the heart of New York City's burgeoning theatre district. Over the decades, it evolved to cater not only to young actors but also to prodigies in classical music, studying at institutions like the Juilliard School, and dancers from companies such as the School of American Ballet. The school has maintained its mission through the rise of new media, educating students working in film, television, and popular music, while consistently adapting its academic model to the demands of the professional world.

Academics

The academic program is fully accredited and follows a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum aligned with standards from the New York State Education Department. Core subjects include advanced coursework in English literature, mathematics, laboratory science, and history, with a strong emphasis on writing and critical thinking. A defining feature is the flexible scheduling, which allows students to attend classes around rehearsals, performances, tours, or competitions. The school employs a trimester system and offers extensive independent study options, Advanced Placement courses, and dedicated college counseling to prepare students for admission to top-tier universities and colleges.

Notable alumni

The alumni community includes a vast array of acclaimed performers, artists, and professionals. Distinguished graduates from the entertainment world include actors such as Macaulay Culkin, Carrie Fisher, Nina Foch, and Christopher Walken. Renowned musicians and composers like Beverly Sills, Moby, and Nile Rodgers attended, as did celebrated dancers including Geoffrey Holder and Alvin Ailey. Other notable figures span diverse fields, such as author Fran Lebowitz, journalist Andrea Mitchell, and fashion designer Zac Posen. This network reflects the school's enduring role in nurturing talent across the arts and public life.

Campus and facilities

The school is located on West 60th Street in the Manhattan neighborhood of Lincoln Square, placing it in close proximity to major cultural institutions like Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the Metropolitan Opera House, and the David H. Koch Theater. The urban campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, a library, and dedicated arts studios. Its central location is strategically vital, providing easy access for students taking classes at adjacent conservatories, attending auditions in the Theatre District, or rehearsing with companies based in the city.

Governance and organization

The school is governed by a Board of Trustees which oversees its financial health, strategic direction, and adherence to its mission. Day-to-day operations are managed by a Head of School, supported by academic deans, department chairs, and a faculty composed of educators experienced in working with professionally engaged students. It is a member of several educational associations, including the National Association of Independent Schools and the New York State Association of Independent Schools. The school community is further supported by an active alumni association that fosters connections and provides mentorship for current students.

Category:Educational institutions established in 1914 Category:Private schools in Manhattan Category:College-preparatory schools in New York City