Lycée Français de New York

Lycée Français de New York. Founded in 1935, it is a prestigious independent, co-educational day school located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The institution provides a bilingual French and American curriculum from nursery through twelfth grade, culminating in the French Baccalauréat and an American High school diploma. It is accredited by the French Ministry of National Education and is part of the global network of the Agency for French Education Abroad.

History

The school was established in 1935 by a group of French expatriates and American Francophiles, including figures like Countess de la Falaise, to serve the growing community of French nationals in New York City. Its first location was a small brownstone on East 72nd Street, and it was originally known as the "French Institute." During World War II, the school became a vital cultural and educational haven for families displaced by the conflict in Europe. Under the leadership of long-time headmaster M. Roger Schoellkopf, the institution expanded significantly in the post-war era, mirroring the rise of New York City as a global capital. A major milestone was reached in 2003 with the opening of its current, purpose-built facility designed by the renowned architecture firm Polshek Partnership.

Campus

The school's modern campus is situated at 505 East 75th Street, between York Avenue and the East River. The building, designed by James Stewart Polshek, features a striking glass and steel façade and was the first independent school in New York City constructed in over two decades at the time of its completion. Facilities include a multi-story atrium, state-of-the-art science laboratories, a 400-seat auditorium named for donor Elaine Langone, a regulation-size gymnasium, and dedicated art and music studios. The campus also houses an extensive media center and library, which supports the school's rigorous academic programs. Its location provides students with access to the cultural resources of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Gracie Mansion.

Academics

The academic program is a unique fusion of the French national curriculum and American educational practices, delivered in both French and English. The elementary program follows the French system, with a strong emphasis on foundational skills in mathematics and literature. In the secondary school, students prepare for the French Baccalauréat, with options in the scientific, economic, and literary streams. The school also offers a robust selection of Advanced Placement courses and the IB Diploma for students seeking an additional international qualification. Graduates consistently gain admission to top-tier universities in the United States, France, and internationally, including Ivy League institutions and grandes écoles like Sciences Po.

Student Life

Student life is enriched by a wide array of extracurricular activities and a strong emphasis on arts education and athletics. The school fields competitive teams in sports such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball within the Independent School Athletic League. A vibrant arts program includes offerings in theater, orchestra, visual arts, and dance, with frequent performances in the Elaine Langone Auditorium. The student government and numerous clubs, such as the Model United Nations and debate team, foster leadership and engagement. Cultural events like the annual Gala and the French-American Friendship Week celebrate the school's dual heritage and deep ties to the Consulate General of France in New York.

Notable Alumni

The alumni community includes leaders in diverse fields such as politics, arts, business, and academia. In government and public service, alumni include former White House Chief of Staff John F. Kelly and diplomat Capricia Penavic Marshall. The arts are represented by actress and filmmaker Léa Seydoux, journalist Anderson Cooper, and author Jill Kargman. In business and technology, notable graduates include entrepreneur and Tumblr founder David Karp and financier John A. Paulson. Other distinguished alumni encompass architect Richard Meier, Olympic medalist Virginia Thrasher, and literary scholar Marina Warner.

Category:Educational institutions established in 1935 Category:French international schools in the United States Category:Private schools in Manhattan