Rich, joyful learning experiences that unlock lives of boundless choice

Ascend is a network of schools that puts students first. We meet each child where they are and equip them in reaching their full potential because we believe, just like you, that anything is possible for them. Our schools are set apart by our approach to literacy instruction grounded in the Science of Reading, application of inquiry-based learning, the Responsive Classroom model and our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism.

Our Approach

“We believe just like you believe that your kid is capable of anything, and we want to work alongside you in getting it done.” - Danique, Chief Schools Officer at Ascend

Welcoming School Community

We create safe, joyful, engaging classrooms and school communities through Responsive Classroom — a student-centered social and emotional learning approach to teaching and discipline. Our schools use language and strategic systems to support students as they develop the academic, social and emotional skills to become leaders and change-makers.

A Comprehensive Curriculum

We offer a well-rounded and enriching curriculum that is deeply rooted in inquiry-based learning and aligned with the New York State Next Generation Learning standards. Our curriculum includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses to challenge and inspire our students.

Whole-Child Learning

We prepare our students to be critical thinkers and life-long learners. Teachers use inquiry-based learning to empower students to discover their own opinions, identity and voice and to learn from one another.

Beautiful School Facilities

We believe our families, students and staff deserve a physical learning environment where they will feel inspired to dream big and take risks every day. Each Ascend school building is a privately-leased facility with classrooms that are colorful, spacious and filled with natural light.

Our Values

Dreaming Audaciously

We are relentlessly bold. We dream wild futures inspired by our students’ power and confidently act on our unwavering belief that together, we can bring these dreams to life.

Striving Joyfully

We are in love with learning. We embody the hard work, dedication and tenacity that power our learning journey and believe that laughter, community, creativity and curiosity strengthen us along the way.

Partnering Collaboratively

We are mission-aligned and working toward the same goals, together. We thrive through strong relationships amongst our schools, our families and our communities, becoming stronger by learning from and with each other.

Centering Justice

We are committed to shaping a more equitable future. We work endlessly to ensure an equitable and just education for our students that is rooted in anti-racism and advances equity in our schools and in our world.

Championing Belonging

We are a place for all people — no matter who you are or where you’re from, you can be part of the Ascend family. We treat every person with dignity and respect, celebrating the many unique identities that add beauty, authenticity, knowledge and depth to our community.

An Adventure in Learning

Our exceptional curriculum includes research-proven instructional programs, both developed by Ascend and from industry-leading companies. Ascend’s students engage deeply in English language arts, project-based learning, problem-based math lessons, scientific explorations and robust, intellectually challenging discussions throughout.