Mission, Vision, and History
Mission Statement
The IDEAL School of Manhattan is an inclusion school dedicated to creating a diverse community that affirms and accepts the full identities of all people, while inspiring academic excellence, creative leadership, and a desire to build a more just and equitable world.
Vision
IDEAL’s unique program rests on the transformational belief that we all learn better when we learn together. IDEAL challenges and supports each student in their academic, social, and emotional growth and considers contribution to the community the greatest goal.
IDEAL students embrace different perspectives and work to bring people together for positive change. Our curriculum actively promotes inclusion, teaching students to recognize bias, resolve conflicts, and collaborate effectively. In a safe and welcoming environment, they confidently share their identities, experiences, and viewpoints while learning to respect and understand others.
Strong student-teacher relationships, skilled educators, and personalized learning are central to our academic approach. In the Lower School, a co-teaching model ensures all students receive tailored support. In the Middle and High Schools, teams of educators design lessons that encourage critical thinking, real-world connections, and meaningful discussions. Small, seminar-style classes help students develop empathy and a global outlook.
IDEAL students are changemakers. They strive for excellence, uplift their peers, and confidently advocate for themselves and others. They seek out and celebrate differences, knowing that true strength comes from community.
History
In 2005, three New York City families of children with Down syndrome were looking for a school that would provide strong academics, individualized support, and a nurturing environment, and would be inclusive for their children. They wanted a school that celebrated their children’s strengths while helping them overcome challenges. When they couldn’t find one that met their children's needs, they decided to create it themselves.
Their vision was a truly inclusive independent school that embraced diversity in all forms — ethnicity, economic background, ability, and learning style. Partnering with dedicated educators, they founded The IDEAL School of Manhattan, built on the principles of Inclusion, Diversity, Excellence, Acceptance, and Leadership.
IDEAL opened in 2006 with 20 students in kindergarten through second grade. The school has since grown into a K-12 school with a postsecondary program, now serving over 150 students. Since graduating our first senior class in 2018, IDEAL students have continued their education in a variety of ways, but all students left ready to lead and contribute to a more just world.
