About Us

Cartoon Graphic of Kids

We are a school community that shares the common vision that all children are capable of learning at very high levels provided they are given the time and the expert instruction necessary to do so. As such, PS 172 has done a great deal to align the organizational and academic structures in our school to maximize our students' success and to inspire our students to fulfill our school's mission; that is, to acquire and use the knowledge, skills and behaviors necessary to succeed in a culturally diverse and technologically advanced society.

Partnerships

NYU School Based Mental Health Clinic

We have a full-time NYU Langone social worker based at P.S. 172 to provide mental health services directly to P.S. 172 students and their families.

NYU Together Growing Strong (CARE Program)

Our school partners with the Together Growing Strong CARE program to support children up to age seven and their families through community outreach, engaging activities, vital resources, and educational opportunities. From playgroups and read-alouds to food pantries and parent workshops, CARE helps families connect, grow, and thrive together.

Child Mind Institute Reading Intervention Program

We are proud to partner with the Child Mind Institute to offer a 14-week reading intervention program for first and second grade students who are struggling with early reading skills. Using a research-based, phonics-focused approach, the program provides small group instruction twice a week and includes regular progress updates and support for both teachers and families to help students build confidence and strengthen foundational reading skills.

Junior Achievement USA

Our school partners with Junior Achievement to bring engaging, age-appropriate lessons in financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship to our students. Through the support of community volunteers and hands-on activities, students gain the skills and confidence to make informed choices about their futures and build a strong foundation for lifelong success.

CUNY Reading Corps

Through our partnership with CUNY Reading Corps, trained CUNY students provide one-on-one, high-dosage literacy tutoring to kindergarten through second grade students using evidence-based programs aligned with the science of reading. This initiative supports young readers while helping prepare future educators with hands-on experience and research-backed strategies to meet the needs of NYC students.

NYU America Reads and Counts Tutors

PS 172 is proud to host America Reads & Counts tutors, dedicated volunteers who support teachers with an extra hand in the classroom & students in grades K-5 with reading, math, and homework help. Serving during the school day, these tutors bring learning to life and help instill a lasting love of education.

My Plate! The Food Guide Musical Program

Our fourth graders participate in “MYPLATE! The Food Guide Musical Program,” a fun and engaging nutrition and fitness initiative that teaches students the importance of healthy eating and staying active. Through music, movement, and interactive lessons, the program promotes lifelong habits that help prevent childhood obesity and support overall well-being.

Inside Broadway

Through our partnership with Inside Broadway, 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students take center stage as they learn acting, singing, and choreography from professional teaching artists, culminating in a musical performance for the school community. This hands-on residency program builds confidence, creativity, and teamwork while giving students a true taste of the magic of live theatre.

Two Trees and the Walentas Family Foundation Grant

Through a generous grant from Two Trees and the Walentas Family Foundation, P.S. 172’s Exploring Community & Cultural Connections Program connects students and families to local green spaces, community organizations, and cultural institutions to deepen their understanding of nature, history, and the rich diversity within our school and neighborhood. This grant has provided students with enriching field trips to Greenwood Cemetery and Brooklyn Grange/City Growers, as well as school-wide cultural musical assemblies led by teaching artists from S'Cool Sounds—fostering shared experiences, promoting empathy, and reducing conflict through connection and cultural appreciation.

Splat Lab

Through our partnership with Splat Lab, students have the opportunity to participate in a fun and engaging after-school enrichment club that combines hands-on STEAM activities. Additionally, Splat Lab leads interactive activities during our annual STEAM Saturday family event, bringing families together through joyful, hands-on learning experiences.