Finding the Hidden Gem. Get Your School on the Map.

Joyce Pulphus • Cahn Fellow 2022

Where are all the students? Although this is a question shared by many schools within New York City, it is one that we have actively explored as we address a decline in student enrollment at Bronx Design and Construction Academy. The New York City Department of Education reports that roughly 120,000 students have left the public school system over the past five years. In dealing with this reality, it was clear that as a school, we had to take action and get creative. We are a special school; we know this. We are a gem within our South Bronx community. Having five New York State-approved CTE programs would make us a gem in any neighborhood.  Our graduates are equipped for advanced entry into the competitive construction trades and post-secondary education programs. Additionally, the safe and nurturing learning environment we have created for our students and staff has allowed them to thrive. But what can we do to expand our reach and get our school on the map? 

As a school community, we explored ways to bring new families, partners, and prospective students to us, with the hope that they will help spread the word. We enhanced our online presence, initiated strategic partnerships, and increased our efforts to invite others to our celebration of our students. As a result, the size of our incoming cohorts increased, and the stories of Bronx Design & Construction Academy continue to expand in reaching people and organizations not only in New York City but also internationally.