Education and Youth Programs

We are committed to providing our scholars every opportunity and support today so that they may thrive tomorrow.

Our Impact

Call (212) 360-3255

HCZ Promise Academy High School seniors sit and smile during graduation day at The Armory.

Overview

At Harlem Children’s Zone, we believe getting our scholars to and through college is the primary means of breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. That’s why we offer comprehensive youth programs that support children and their families from cradle to career.

Keep scrolling to discover our Education & Youth Programs.

Early Childhood

The first years of a child's life shape their future. Through targeted programs from birth to preschool, our scholars and parents are empowered to build a foundation for success in K-12, college, and beyond.

The Baby College

In this nine-week workshop, new and expectant parents and caregivers are guided through the ins and outs of early childhood development.

Man and woman smiling as the man holds a baby girl with one hand towards the camera.

Three-Year-Old Journey

At Three-Year-Old Journey, lottery winners of HCZ Promise Academy Charter Schools have the opportunity to continue to learn, grow, and nurture friendships in the lead up to starting at the school.

Three-Year-Old journey scholar wearing a red sweatshirt plays with a red ball.

Harlem Gems®

At our preschool program, our youngest scholars get prepared to succeed in K-12 and beyond by building a strong academic foundation.

young female scholar holds up her hands to form a heart.

Promise Academy® Charter Schools

HCZ Promise Academy are top-performing K-12 charter schools within HCZ’s cradle-to-career pathway of comprehensive services. When young scholars join our community, we promise to do whatever it takes to get them to and through college. Everything we do — from quality instruction to exceptional extracurricular activities to healthy, home-cooked meals — is designed to keep that promise.

Promise Academy Elementary Schools

Scholars build strong foundational skills with an eye toward high school graduation, college acceptance, and successful careers.

HCZ Promise Academy Elementary School teacher and scholars smile in a classroom.

Promise Academy Middle Schools

Middle school is a critical time for scholars, full of change and growth. They learn the advanced skills needed to excel academically, socially, and emotionally in high school.

A two male students observe a shell in a science lab.

Promise Academy High Schools

With college right around the corner, scholars build the academic, social, and professional skills to thrive in college and their careers.

HCZ Promise Academy High School senior smiling in blue robe at graduation.

Youth Programs

We believe every child has unlimited potential. Scholars can access a range of programs in Central Harlem schools that empower them to explore their passions, succeed academically, and excel in college, their careers, and life.

Peacemakers

Peacemakers partners with Harlem’s public elementary and middle schools to help unlock that potential in all scholars.

The 3 spelling bee champions pose with their trophies.

A Cut Above

A Cut Above is an after-school program that empowers scholars in grades K-8 to make better, future-focused decisions and become well-rounded citizens and leaders.

Young scholars perform on stage in little mermaid costumes.

Academy of Arts & Civic Engagement (ACE)

ACE is an after-school program that prepares high school scholars for careers in the arts. Scholars gain career-ready skills, real-world experience, and a network of professional contacts.

Employment & Technology Center (ETC)

ETC is an after-school program that prepares high school scholars for careers in STEM and technical arts. Scholars learn to use cutting-edge technologies, gain career-ready skills, and grow a network of professional contacts.

Three scholars actively work on a hands-on activity in class.

Countee Cullen Community Center

Countee Cullen is an after-school program for high school scholars where they learn the ins and outs of careers in broadcasting and media arts. Scholars gain career-ready skills, real-world experience, and engage with industry experts.

Male scholar using a computer.

College & Career

Our scholars may leave the Zone for college, but the Zone never leaves them. We continue to support them while they’re in college and working as young professionals.

College Success Office

College Success Office helps scholars prepare for college, get through college, and launch successful careers that pave the path to social and economic mobility.

Two female scholars posing with different college memorabilia
Community Members | With instructors guiding them, young kids participate in a fitness class in a large sports space.

Learn More About

Health and Community

We want all of our community members to have long, successful, and happy lives. They can access a range of programs and services to support their holistic wellbeing.