Testimonials

Even though I worked part-time as a teacher mentor at East- West, I was impressed with the high caliber of teachers that were hired by the principal. The whole community is one that respects education and the environment is friendly. Having tea with the principal during a meeting was an example of the type of atmosphere that is at East-West. The human appeal is so essential to a functional work place, and that is something that is so well rooted and always developing at East-West.

Positive attitudes and growth are nourished here, and it is a gem of a place to be as a professional, student or parent.

Janet Ballatore - Science Educator

Estamos muy contentos y satisfechos con todos los profesores y el personal de East-West . Se preocupan por nuestros hijos, y constantemente nos mantengan informados. El principal es muy agradable. Estoy muy feliz con los progresos de mis hijos. Mi hijo mayor se graduó y está haciendo bien en la universidad gracias a los maestros.

We are very happy and pleased with all of the teachers and staff at East-West. They care about our kids, and they constantly keep us informed. The principal is very nice. I'm very happy with my son's progress in school. My oldest son graduated and is doing well in college thanks to the teachers.

Clemente Giraldo parent of Steven Giraldo- 12th grade student

Parent of High School Student

Dear Mr. Ben Sherman:

I am writing this e-mail because I want to say thank you for all your assistance in my internship at the East-West School of International Studies. I was able to attain my master's degree in school counseling  because of the first-rate counseling professionals I encountered, such as Mr. Diaz, Mrs. Park, and Mrs. Washington, as well as the teachers and assistant principals. Your entire staff unselfishly taught me lessons at every turn, and made me see exactly what a professional counselor does. Having the chance to learn first-hand under the tutelage of your counselors was an opportunity without equal, and your interest in my professional growth meant a lot to me. My experience at EWSIS reinforced my aspirations to be a school counselor, and the invaluable knowledge I acquired from your staff will serve me throughout my career. Once again, I thank you for all your assistance.

Sincerely,

Ramses Malpica

R. Malpica - Guidance Counselor Intern

Dear Mr. Sherman,

I want to thank you for the unique pleasure of visiting your school.  It takes just moments inside the walls of East-West to sense the comfort level and collegiality of all members of your staff from veterans to newcomers. That kind of environment allows staff to strive for excellence and to truly work collaboratively.  That kind of environment is a place where staff can find a long-term home, trusting that the administration cares about their continuing development. It’s a clear testament to a leadership style which values and respects each individual member of its team. It is the kind of place I would want to work my hardest and do my absolute best.

But of course, the bottom line is the students. And the results were evident everywhere.  Even near the end of the school year, when students could hardly be blamed for being distracted, these students were both relaxed and fully engaged in their learning. And I mean all of the students.  Almost hard to believe.  Students knew what they were supposed to be doing at all times.  They were either focused on the teacher or quietly involved in intent, relevant and quiet discussions or individual work.  None of the students I saw seemed frustrated, alienated or disruptive. Admittedly, I was there for only a few periods.  But for that amount of time it was still quite an accomplishment. I can only assume that the students respond to the commitment and nurturing of the teachers and administration as well as to a school which pulses with diversity, creativity, community and fun.  How I would have loved to attend East West as a student!

Thanks again!

Best,

Lois Gartenberg 

L. Gartenberg - Visiting Guest

In 2007, I heard about East-West through insideschools.org. It was featured as a new school with a unique language program. I chose East-West because of the impressive language program and the proximity of the school from my house. I wanted to attend a school that's convenient and East-West was only a 10-minute walk from my house. Although I'm Chinese, I don't know how to speak Mandarin. I wanted to learn the language because China is growing more and more prominent in today's world, and I wanted to get closer to my roots. The school is also small. Teachers can devote more individual attention to students. I wanted my teachers to know me and I didn't want to feel overwhelmed around a great number of peers.

I remember the friends and great teachers I had in East-West. The community is close-knit and I still keep in touch with some of my middle school friends. Mrs. Mandel always made English class a lot of fun. She also pushed us out of our comfort zone. Even though I and my other peers laughed a lot during her classes, Mrs. Mandel challenged us intellectually. She showed how learning can be fun.

Mrs. Chang was one of the best Chinese teachers I've had. Like Mrs. Mandel, she'd always challenge the class in a fun way. I still remember the 10-minute weekly Friday Chinese Dictionary quizzes we had. Mrs. Chang is very passionate about what she teaches. Thanks to her teaching, I was able to take accelerated Chinese classes in Bard.

The format of Mrs. Marinos' social studies class is similar to the one at my current high school/early college. At the beginning of each class, she would pose a question and have all the students write about it for 5-10 minutes. Then we'd have a class discussion on our responses. Open discussions benefit everyone who's involved. I enjoy hearing other people's ideas because everyone carries a different perspective. Learning happens when you're open to ideas around you. Mrs. Marinos proposed open-ended questions, which I liked. The answers were never clear, so in class we'd address the gray areas of topics. Aside from short discussions, we learned a lot of factual historical events. She's also a tough, yet fair grader. Like Mrs. Mandel and Mrs. Chang, she challenged us to do our best.

I distinctly remember the principal, Mr. Sherman. He would pop in classrooms and talk to students around the hallways. He is a very kind person who takes the time to know his students.

East-West prepared me for the rigor of Bard's curriculum. Though I've always been a hard worker, EW's curriculum definitely wasn't easy. All classes require you to think and put in effort. Coming to Bard's intellectual environment was a relatively smooth transition. EW showed me that it's good to be close with your teachers. In Bard I was also able to get to know my teachers.

I'd recommend East-West if you're into Asian culture. It provides you with a language program that most other schools don't have. There is a study-abroad program that allows you to go to China, Korea, or Japan for the summer. But what it's done most for me is given me a small community to thrive in. East-West provided me unquestionable support from my teachers.

The school I currently attend is Bard High School Early College Queens in Long Island City. I'm graduating on June 23, and I receive my associate’s degree on June 26 2014.

Ms. Chu graduated from East-West in 8th grade and will be graduating from Bard High School Early College Queens and matriculating to Princeton University in the Fall 2014.

Gabriella Chu '14

Transitioning from East-West to Townsend Harris was a difficult thing to do. The difficulty of the classes was really different but most of the curriculum for certain classes was the same. A lot of the classes that I took in East-West in middle school definitely prepared me for my high school classes. As a freshman, I had to take AP World History and then in my junior year I had to take AP US History. Although the class was not the same in East-West, some of the things I had already learned so it served as a foundation for me. Some of the classes that I took did help me because it served as a foundation, which helped me understand a little better when I was “re-taught”, the same thing in high school.  I will be attending SUNY Geneseo in the Fall of 2014. 

Helen Lin '14

My name is Carol, and my son and my niece both attend East West. They transferred from our zoned middle school which they hated because of bullying and overcrowding.  Now at East-West, they love the school so much and most importantly feel safe at East-West.  This is so important to my sister and I who are both working moms.  For our children to love school and feel safe is priceless.

Your administration, faculty and staff all contribute to this exceptional asset at East West.  We are so grateful!  My sister and I would love to provide a light breakfast to all the staff & administrators of East West to express our appreciation.  Thank you so much. 

Parent of Middle School Student

When I was applying to East-West, I was worried that I was going to a school that wouldn't give me much satisfaction because it was such a small and new school. Fortunately, I was wrong and I am very glad to have chosen to spend my high school years at East-West.  Now that I am a college student, I really do miss my high school and I wish I can just rewind time because I was so happy then.

East-West is a very small school, but it was filled with amazing teachers and staff members who I always turned to for a friendly conversation or if I needed help or advice. I have made friends at EWSIS that have truly affected my life and personality.  I know this sounds very cliche, but I did feel like I was at home when I was attending EWSIS.  The school was small enough to give me a chance to get to know a lot of people, upperclassmen and underclassmen included.  

Although EWSIS struggles in getting more advanced courses available, I still think it's a good enough school to prepare students academically and socially.

Jennifer Pak '13

Coming from a large middle school to a small high school, I didn't know what to expect.  I was going into a new environment where I knew nobody and knew nothing.  I was a bit frightened, but after getting myself settled into the school, I felt like I was part of a community.  Since the school has a small population, I grew to know all the students and teachers.  East-West was, in a way, those small little towns where everybody knows everybody.  It is a close-knit community that is still growing and thriving.

One of the best things about East-West that I love is the opportunities.  Going to high school, I received the opportunity to learn a language I truly wanted to learn, Japanese. Later on in my high school, I received the opportunity of being one of the first students to be at the first offered AP Class at East-West. East-West offers many opportunities for their students that best suits them. They range from internships to study aboard programs. The opportunities that are offered at East-West are one of a kind, making it unique from your ordinary high school.  My time at East-West is unforgettable and I hope future or perspective students come to experience what East-West truly has to offer for them.
Anne Churnakoses '13

To the East-West Community,

I've been a New York City Department of Education Earth Science teacher for the past fifteen years, a member of the Absent Teacher Reserve (ATR), taught within my license (Earth Science) at an individual school for an entire year.  This year (2012-2013), I have been circulated around almost ten schools before being placed here, at the East-West School of International Studies in March 2013 where I covered a maternity leave in my area of certification.

The ATR rotation has afforded me a new perspective on public education.  There are schools that fight the good fight, but will inevitably close; there are schools where students are graduating with A averages on a regular basis...but need to take remedial Math and English when accepted to our local university system.  Fortunately, there are a few schools that fight the good fight, and succeed.  The East-West School is in this group.  But as good as the teachers and administration are, it would be thoughtless of me to ignore the true heroes of East-West...the students.

The students I worked with at East-West without exception, are the best group of kids I've ever met in my teaching career.  That they would allow me to seamlessly take over a class and continue the curriculum during a maternity leave is a true testament to their own integrity, and the values their families and East-West have instilled.  The students have truly benefited from the staff's collaborative spirit, and the regular sharing of ides through inquiry.  How very fortunate all of you are to have one another!

Finally Mr. Sherman, thank you for having the students and staff recite the Pledge of Allegiance at your daily muster, and offering a moment of silence for our fallen soldiers on Memorial Day.  Sadly, very few of the "new" schools, I've seen in the last four years think such acknowledgement is appropriate.  Your open door policy, cultural awareness, and desire to share personal experiences with humor, is a rare gift and greatly appreciated.

God bless you all,

-Bill P.

East-West School 5/31/2013

Bill P. - Earth Science Teacher

Fleeing from Guatemala and having an undocumented status in New York City, not speaking an ounce of English, I never dreamed in a million years that I would be a QuestBridge Finalist in high school applying for early decision to Ivy League Colleges like Brown, Columbia,and Dartmouth. 

I came to New York at the age of 8 years old.  No one in my family spoke English.  I struggled in elementary school learning the language. 

By the time I started middle school at East-West, I was still struggling in English, but I was very fortunate to have the individualized attention that a small school like East-West can afford.  Mrs. Mandel was my English teacher and Advisor.  I attribute my success in scoring a 730 on my SATs in critical reading to Mrs. Mandel.  I thank her for being proactive in getting me the support I needed in writing, reading, and basically getting me organized so that I could do my best.  Mrs. Mandel would have ongoing conferences with my mom to work with me in areas that I needed improvements on.  I also had Mrs. Braverman for English, and she recommended the book The Hunger Games to me, which got me engaged in reading more young adult books, and I believe that is where my love of reading started.  Ms. Marinos provided a solid foundation in American History, which prepared me for the Advanced Placement course in US History.

I was also a middle school delegate in Mrs. Gorry’s Model UN club.  Though I wasn’t very outspoken at the time, the experience of attending conferences at the United Nations and doing research on numerous countries, provided a positive experience that when I became a junior in high school, my experience from East-West was one of the reasons I was promoted to Editor of the Model UN Club.  As Editor, I had the opportunity to mentor and instruct all the new members. 

Dr. Sherman sparked my interest in Biology and Genetics.  Having taken Living Environment with Dr. Sherman, along with the Algebra Regents in 8th Grade, I was one of the few 9th graders at Francis Lewis High School to take Chemistry and Geometry, which eventually followed with Physics and Trigonometry in 10th Grade.  By Junior and Senior year, I was able to take extra Advance Placement courses in Biology and Psychology, which prepared me for the Science Research Mentoring Program at the American Museum of Natural History.

The individualized attention that I received from East-West made a big difference in my education.  I don’t want to blend in and get lost in the shuffle, I wanted to be noticed by my peers and stand out.  East-West provided a nurturing environment for me to succeed.  I didn’t know how much I appreciated Morning Muster at East-West, where the students and teachers all said Good Morning to everybody in four different languages, where all the announcements were made, and we had performances on Fridays until I transferred to a large school where information like that would be from a public address system; not as personable.

I have come a long way from when I was first arrived to America, adjusting to a new country with a language different than my own.  My parents have sacrificed a lot for my brother and I.  This is what fuels me to do my best, and dream big, and I have East-West to thank for for believing in me and supporting me in middle school. 

Karla Pinzon '14

I was very interested in the Asian Language Program at East-West.  The choice to study Japanese for three years and then having the opportunity to visit Japan was one of my highlights of attending East-West in middle school.  The small school environment provided a feeling of safety and comfort that other middle schools with 1000 students in each grade could not have created.  By taking my Algebra and Living Environment Regents in the eighth grade, I was a year ahead of most of my peers entering high school.  East-West pushed me to do my best and instilled in me the ability to succeed in high school and beyond.  Thank you East-West!

Kimberly Tabares '14

Before I attended East-West I was attending I.S. 59, which had a black population of 98%, so I was somewhat trapped in a bubble of my own race.  The idea of diversity there was being half-Black and half-Spanish or half-Black and half-White, so coming to East-West at first was a little frightening.  I was far away from home; there were foreign signs all around the neighborhood, absolutely nobody of the same race for miles, and the school was so small that the halls seemed deserted.  However, the students as well as the teachers and staff made it really easy to adjust.

The High School Assistant Principle at the time took it upon himself to introduce me to some students in my class, one particular person being Malcolm, who is practically a brother.  After about only one month attending the school, I knew practically everybody in my grade and had a good relationship with most of the teachers.  It was at East-West where I was able to just grow and be comfortable.  I didn’t worry about trivial high school things such as bullies or narcotics.   Throughout the years, it’s only been about my studies and my friends, so it was much easier for me to focus on what I wanted to do in the future.  Now I’m going to the college of my dreams, following my goals, and unlike people from other high schools, I’m going to keep in touch with a large amount of my fellow classmates. 

One of the best things about East-West to me is the foreign language program.  Despite only having one Japanese teacher, East-West fully immerses you into not only the language, but also the culture.  I took Japanese at East-West expecting only to study out of a textbook, learn the language, and take the NYS Language Other Than English test.  However, in my five years at East-West, I have tasted many foods, played Japanese games, made New Year’s cards, talked to Atomic Bomb survivors and even went to the country itself!  Not only has East-West amazed me with the intensive lessons and hands-on experiences but the cultural aspect of the entire program glued everything together in one amazing package.  East-West is far from perfect but it’s been an incredible experience that I will never forget.

 

Darwin Pringle '13

 

Dear Mr. Sherman:

How does a parent say “thank you” for saving their child?  When Hannah started High School in a large, impersonal school, things quickly went from bad to worse.  Poor attendance, cutting classes, bad choice of friends, and failing grades were making the situation look grim.

I knew that school was not what Hannah needed, and I asked (begged) Mr. Sherman to allow her to transfer to the East-West School of International Studies.  After interviewing both Hannah, her parents and her friends, you agreed to give her a chance at a new beginning.

At first she continued to struggle with her issues.  At one point I could not see the light at the end of the tunnel – I just did not know what more to do to help her.  You spoke with me in your usual calming way and assured me that she would do OK and graduate on time.  What you knew helped me to wait it out.

Hannah has blossomed under the caring of the teachers, administrators and staff of the EWSIS.  Recently she received the honor of “Student of the Month” from her Japanese Language and Culture class.  Her attendance is excellent, she wears the school uniform every day, she is passing all of her subjects with decent grades, enjoys working with Mrs. Arroyo in the office, and looks forward to coming to school every day.  The supportive, caring environment that exists at EWSIS has made all the difference.

There are so many people who have worked so hard to help Hannah.  Mrs. Klinger was always there when Hannah needed support and guidance.  Hannah calls Mrs. Arroyo her “mother in school” this year.  Mrs. Horowitz has managed to make Hannah look forward to Wednesdays when she has gym, dressed for play, and now a great fan of kickball.  Mrs. Mandel has worked tirelessly to convince Hannah that she is a great kid.  Mrs. Shim is always available to answer my questions and help Hannah.  How exciting that now she has begun to help Hannah choose schools and apply for college!  So many of her teachers have been there to encourage her to do her best, and the upcoming trip to Japan is going to be such an amazing opportunity for Hannah to gain confidence and life-long memories.

You have created a climate conducive to learning.  The school has a small town feel, where staff are accessible, and Hannah feels that she is an important member of the school community.  You have made such a big difference in her life.  “Thank you” only begins to express my feelings of gratitude.

Sincerely,

Ronald Kohn

Parent of High School Student
Where do I begin when I reminisce about my time at East-West? After staying in a school for six years, making many life-long friends, and learning from various teachers year after year, I find myself saddened by my departure yet euphoric that I was able to attain so many memories.     When I first attended East-West in the 7th grade, I was reluctant to make friends or even come to school.  My mom heard about East-West from her friend whose daughter was a student, and so she decided to send me here.  I had to take the MTA bus from Briarwood all the way out to Elder Avenue in Flushing.  It was my first time taking public transportation to a school and becoming submerged in an unknown environment.  Looking back now, it shaped me into becoming an adult; going to school by myself and getting a really good education.  I almost felt like a college student and I was only 12 years old!   In the six years that I was at East-West, I participated in many activities and clubs.  My most memorable moments were going to the Korean New Year's Day parade, helping out with distributing food and drinks at the Queens Botanical Garden during the Chinese New Year’s Festival, planting trees after a horrible rainstorm at Kissena Park, and of course travelling to Japan.   East-West provided me with these wonderful opportunities that I would not have found anywhere else.  I could not have asked for a better trip than the one I went to in Japan. Japan was an amazing experience for me because I never studied Japanese so I was completely new to the environment, similar to when I first came to East-West.  The sights, the foods, and my host family were only a part of what was to be the greatest experience at East-West for me.  Japan’s small town of Nagoya had a variety of suburban style sightseeing that kept me interested.  I visited temples, large golf courses, and shopping malls where the best of the best gathered for Pokémon battles.  Videogames are also popular there and my host brother and I would play Wii games, Nintendo DS games, and with Lego sets.  Visiting Kyoto and Kiyomisudera was breath-taking because of how old the structures and the city was and how the old Japanese style was so authentic.  It was surreal and our group was very eager to learn as much as they could.  I was more intent on buying souvenirs and taking pictures and shopping.  This trip to Japan was the highlight of my years at East-West and I couldn’t ask for anything more.   At East-West, I had many memories.  Some of the most enjoyable moments were hosting the East-West Game Show, the Hunger Games, the Basketball 3 On 3 tournaments, Field Day, the Color Wars, and becoming Chancellor for Student Government in the 11th grade. My time at East-West was enjoyable and I would stay for another year if I could.  If I had one piece of advice to share with future students, it would be to pay attention in class and work smarter, not harder.
Tameem Ahmed '13

One Moment in East-West

High School is all about self-discovery. As I end my four-year journey, I have taken a few moments to sit back and reflect on what I have learned here at East-West. High School is that influence that helps one to examine oneself and to become a better person for the future. High School is the driving force, the transition from the person you once were, to the person you desire to become. No school accomplishes that more than East-West.

East-West helped me to open my shell and break down the walls I had built up over the years. From 7th grade to present day, I’ve grown to assert myself and stand firm to the ideas I believe in. This transition has helped to mold my personality. I am now an independent, ambitious, curious and outgoing young woman. I am eternally grateful to my past teachers and to my principal, Mr. Sherman, who have helped shape me into becoming who I am today.

East-West was only a small portion of the 4th floor when I arrived back in 2007. Yes, we are a small school and I am grateful that I was able to accomplish so much during my junior high and high school years. I was able to get to know many of my teachers as well as establishing a relationship with the school staff. From 8th grade to 12th grade, my teachers have seen and influenced me to grow from a shy student to a confident, bright young woman. My teachers have helped me into becoming not only a better student but a better person with morals and ethics.

However, what I enjoyed the most about attending this school was making so many friends from different ethnicities. This only fulfills the idea of East-West being so international. We are a diverse community; I’m friends with Asians, Whites and Hispanics. They have all given me opportunities to learn about their cultures. Over the years we’ve become a small family where I have embraced various cultures during my years of East-West.

Throughout the years I participated in so many school-wide events such as the 2010 Talent Show, the 1st and 3rd Annual Poetry Slam and other extracurricular activities that have helped me sharpen my interests and hobbies. In these events and clubs I’ve learned to express myself through song, writing and in my beliefs.

East-West has also challenged me to take difficult courses in order to challenge myself and better prepare myself for college curriculum. English AP was indeed a challenging course to take, however, the experience has made me stronger and more willing to take on more challenges. I am also appreciative that I was able to partake in so many first time events in East-West such as having our first Chemistry and English AP Classes as well as signing our Rachel’s Challenge banner which creates a zero-tolerance bullying zone and promotes the virtues of compassion and kindness in our school.

Both courses have not only accomplished my desire in taking challenging courses but have prepared me for college. While taking the English AP Course, I was required to write essays in MLA format and was graded on a college level scale. The topics ranged from modern education to argumentative essays where we were required to have a counterargument and analyze our evidence. East-West also has given me the opportunity to experience another college course in Queens College in a program known as College Now.

Another course I was able to take was the Chinese Language Course, that East-West offers for it’s students. From their first year of East-West, students are able to choose from the three Asian language courses offered: Chinese, Japanese and Korean. After taking Chinese for 4 years, I’m proud to say that I’ve learned more about Chinese language as well as Chinese culture (such as cooking, painting and calligraphy). This course has also prepared me for college as well as prepared me for my trip to China during the Summer of 2012.

As a high school senior, I am planning to go to St. John’s University in the Fall and majoring in the Pharmacy Program. Looking back towards the last six years, East-West has had a lasting influence on my life and has provided me with the morals, ethics and the intellect to assist me in the near future. East-West has never given up on me and has pushed me in doing the best I can by encouraging me to challenge myself and to be the best I can be. I will cherish for the rest of my life the good friends I made here at East-West, and the unforgettable lessons I have experienced.   

 
Sequoya Fahie '13

Bantz sensei,

Thank you so much again for inviting me to EWSIS to give a workshop. I was completely moved by how passionate all of your students were about Japanese and the culture. I'll be honest with you -- it's been a long day for me but I felt invigorated by everyone's love and energy!

I was also moved by the card you put together for me -- all the messages from your students including some parents made me cry. Thank you for being so warm and kind. I shared with you on the ride to the train that I sensed your love for your students and their love for you. I'm so grateful to be part of such a warm community today. You have already achieved something beyond simply teaching a subject matter. I was so honored to have a chance to share what ikebana is about. I apologize profusely about the visuals. I cannot even describe how embarrassed and nervous I was. Thank you for being patient with me.

I hope you will get some sleep tonight. Thank you again for being so wonderful. I learned so much from you and your community. Hontou ni otsukaresamadeshita.

Yasuko Otsue

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Click here to view photos from this album.

 

Yasuko Otsue, Visiting Artist

 

Making the decision as to which high school Ashley would attend after graduation from East-West School of International Studies’ middle school was not difficult. She had already made up her mind that she will continue at East-West.  She had given me every reason to go along, notably the school’s commitment to excellence. I was comfortable with her choice, if only for the fact she would not have to change school.

I am very satisfied with Ashley’s academic accomplishments. To be sure, Ashley has always been a good learner, a student with a high level of achievement motivation, who tends to attribute her successes (or failures) to her own efforts or actions. But she herself makes the point that she has been fortunate to have “real good” teachers, the ones with consistent interest in their students’ learning and progress,  the ones who, as they say, teach from the heart, not only from the book. It’s a good feeling when a teacher shows appreciation of parents’ readiness to be actively involved in their children education. High expectations for student academic success are linked significantly to direct parents contact with schools. This is why I never missed school meetings.

Ashley’s educational journey will in not too distant a future take a new turn, as she transitions to college. This by all accounts is a stressful event, physically, mentally, and emotionally- a lengthy process that involves multiple tasks, requiring time management, resourcefulness, steadfast supportiveness of home and school.  Like most college applicants Ashley experienced spikes in anxiety and felt an intense pressure to comply with deadlines. She commented, however, that consistent support had been available throughout.  She very much enjoyed her trips to Yale and Columbia campuses, among others. These trips were relevant to the process as important steps of achieving perspective taking.

Parents frequently express hope that their children are happy and fulfilled at school, both in their learning and socialization. In this respect, it is satisfying that East-West offer a range of program activities for the students to develop their social skills, showcase their talents and interests, and achieve their strivings. Some activities are intercultural, while others are culture-specific, such as judo, Korean painting, dancing, and singing.

East-West also deserves praise for recognizing how beneficial it is to encourage a spirit of volunteerism, to develop citizenship skills in our young adolescents that in turn help to strengthen community functioning. The aim is that they will eventually translate knowledge and experiences acquired within the community to a wider world.

East-West’s student population is ethnically diverse. Cultural differences notwithstanding, there is no reported intergroup conflict, a testimony to the quality of East-West leadership.  American born of Haitian descent, Ashley has a long history of immersion in East Asian cultures, especially Korean, dating back to her pre-school years.    

Besides being a dedicated member of the dance team, Ashley is involved in a Korean tutoring program, tutoring younger children, as well as classmates. She is also an active member of “Model United Nations” club. Participation in Model United Nations has enlarged her world view, providing her with insight as to how some of the complex issues could be solved.  An issue of great concern to her is Human Rights, especially for children. Ashley’s communication and problem-solving skills have markedly improved as a result of her involvement in these programs.  

Looking back, Ashley’s enrollment at East-West was a right choice. Interactions with the school personnel could not have been better. I held high expectations for my daughter’s academic success, and East-West has been instrumental in making it come through. Perhaps more important, it has given her the sense of purpose and direction. As someone said quite appropriately, “The purpose of life is a life of purpose.”

As Ashley prepares to exit high school and take her place in adult society, this is the time, my time, to rejoice, and to say to you, “East-West educators, job well done. Thank you for your time.” 

Parent of HS Student

This school provides a rigorous, challenging academic program for my kids.  The East-West students are disciplined and respectful.  We're very happy with the school environment.  My kids feel very safe in and around the school.  Their favorite subject is Japanese.

Parent of MS and HS students

East-West is a great school.  The teachers are dedicated and supportive in my child's academics and has helped her tremendously in achieving her goals.  She has learned a second language and is in the right direction to further develop her ability to continue to improve.  Thank you.

Parent of MS Student

 

Mr. Sherman, the principal of East-West School of International Studies, made it clear during the first of many meetings that he and his staff are committed to seeing our children go far with the skills that can be obtained at the East-West.

Every student is provided with the choice to study one of three East Asian languages, and take the Regents for the appropriate course.  Having selected the Korean language course, my son's teachers Ms. Rhi and Ms. Kim have involved him in many cultural events that have ultimately led to his passing of the Korean Language Regents Test.

The curriculum has been challenging and the activities engaging.  Students are involved with courses like the Judo Club, overseen by Ms. Horowitz (my son's Physical Education teacher), and the Photography Club that was started by Mr. Shibata (also my son's Regents Physics teacher).  A top notch SAT course was offered to all of the students by the Guidance Department at a reduced rate.

East-West is a small school with a tight knit learning community.  The students are given every opportunity to excel.   I am glad my son is attending East-West School of International Studies. 

 

Parent of HS Student

I was a member of the East-West School’s graduating Class of 2012.  Looking back, I realized how much East-West has meant to me.  My future is bright because of my decision to attend this school.

My parents felt that East-West was a good school due to its small size.  I agreed that the small school environment really helped because of how close students, teachers and faculty members were to one another.  I feel like I am part of a community here.  This is part of what made East-West special to me.

The uniqueness of East-West allowed me to have experiences very different from most students my age.  I intensively studied Korean as part of my regular schedule as a student of East-West.  I will continue to study Korean through college and plan to study abroad in Korea.

In addition to interesting classes, like the class that taught me how to play Korean drums, East-West has also helped me to develop my interests in its robust after school program.  I joined the Erhu Club where I learned to play the erhu (a two-stringed instrument sometimes called “the Chinese violin”).    I was part of many tutoring programs that my friends and I utilized to help prepare for the Regents exam.  The small atmosphere allowed us to get the one-on-one help we needed.  Other times, we were able to earn community service credit for helping the teachers as student-teacher assistants.  This is the kind of education I experienced and loved at East-West.

I remember during the stressful time of college applications senior year, I was able to get a lot of support from not only the guidance counselors but also my regular teachers.  The fact that the school was so small allowed the teachers and guidance counselors to really know students personally to help them and to write strong letters of recommendation.  The guidance counselors were able to give us ample time for meetings and discussions about college choices.  I remember our guidance counselor knew us well.  She knew which students would do better in a school far from home and which were better off in closer schools.  These kinds of relationships were crucial in insuring that I received the support that I needed most.

All in all, East-West made me a strong-minded, independent student with a lot of very specific interests that will take me far in life.  I feel very prepared for the next chapter of my life.

Crystal Hong '12

I was a parent lost.  My husband had returned from his second tour in Iraq, we moved to Queens, I commuted my children to Brooklyn daily for a year so that they could graduate with their friends and we had just bought a home!  I thought I found a "home" for my daughter in the middle school she was in prior to EWSIS.  I was absolutely wrong and it showed over time.  I searched, begged, cried and called in a few favors to try to get my daughter out of this school and nothing worked.  I researched schools in and out of the area with the criteria I need for my daughter and I found EWSIS!

Education top priority-Check

Disciplined-Check

Multicultural/Diverse-Check

Graduation Rate over 80%-Check

Medium sized and includes Middle School & High School-Check

At that point I found out when registration was and headed in.  To say Mrs. Arroyo was a welcoming energy would be an understatement.  She listened to my plight, looked at my child's past grades and then said good morning to Malaysia.  Malaysia's body language was way off.  Her arms were crossed, she was mumbling, her head was bobbing and she just had a bad attitude all the way around.  Mrs. Arroya had Malaysia stand up, she asked her to step out of the room, wait three seconds and come back in.  So Malaysia did that and Mrs. Arroya said "Good Morning."  Malaysia said good morning back a little better but not great.  She asked her to have a seat and went on to explain to her that her future was based on this split second decision that she had to make right now.  She explained that we (her parents) had fought to get her to this very moment and now it was up to her.  At this very moment I was sold.  I was confident in my decision in picking EWSIS and I was hoping that they picked us.  They continued in a great conversation, an open conversation, a mature conversation and at the the end I was happy, Mrs. Arroyo was happy, and most of all Malaysia was sold on the fact that this change being best for her!

Now where do I start with her great influential teachers! Mr. Bantz is an open and communicating educator.  Dean Pervizaj is a walking blessing who knows her kids.  She is Malaysia's first source, the first educator (in EWSIS) to believe in her.  Mrs. Chen is a strong, insightful sharing woman.  Mrs. Braverman is an old school honest educator.  Mrs. Lee is a new, energetic strong educator who believes in her children and makes them love and relate to math.  Ms. Chang made Chinese interesting to my daughter.  Ms. Lebowitz turned Math into my daughter's favorite subject.  Mrs. Panday is a pillar for Malaysia, she gives her someone to trust and is open to all forms of communication and conflict resolution.  Mrs. Horowitz IS THE BEST!  She treats Malaysia like a child and Malaysia behaves that way.  She doesn't jump on the bandwagon when Malaysia has issues, she informs me if there is a problem-rare with her-and she is a working mom so she understands wasted time costs more than money.

EWSIS has a growing, maturing, nurturing team, that when cultivated correctly, they will be an enormous force to be reckoned with.  I am absolute in my choice for my daughter to come and remain here.  I have not been disappointed.  As a parent of a 14 year old, 8 yo, and a 3yo, I know this time together educating a child will not be perfect, but as long as we-parents and educators- have the same ultimate goal-the success of the children-everything else seems minute!

East-West School of International Studies, thank you for the growth in my child!  Thank you for the communication with us, her parents!  Thank you for the opportunities you are preparing her for!  Thank you for her experiences good, bad, and indifferent!  Thank you for the diversity in your halls and in your classrooms!  Thank you for a different type of educating!  You are truly appreciated!

Parent of High School Student

This school has high academic standards and encourages all students to reach their full potential.  We are very happy that our child is attending East-West.

Parent of MS Student

We are very happy with our child here at East-West.  The principal and teachers have high expectations.  My daughter is studying Chinese, which is very rigorous and challenging, but she is learning it, and she is enjoying it.

Parent of MS Student

East-West have great teachers to provide a strong, supportive system with a hands-on learning approach.  The language program is challenging, but my child is learning a lot, and enjoying it.   

Parent of MS Student

East-West is a small school with caring teachers. -C. Cheng '16

East-West is an excellent school with expectations that are high enough for everyone to reach. -S. Chen '16

East-West prepared me enough to get accepted to Stuyvesant High School. -H. Bao '16

Chiungwen Cheng '16, Samuel Chen '16, Hungfei Bao '16

Why East-West?

At a glance East-West appears to be a typical middle/high school with the exception of uniforms. Once you step through the halls and spend a day at East-West you see this school is anything but average.  Although it is a very small school, any new student can find a niche no matter their interests.  Because our school is so small everybody knows everyone.  From my personal experience, I know many of my friends since 7thgrade; I am now a senior here at East-West.  We grew up together and learned the different mannerisms each person has; East-West isn’t just a school, but a community as well. Besides the many great friendships one makes, there are so many more amazing qualities East-West has to offer; including great teachers and great language programs.

The teachers here at East-West are dedicated to what they do and will do anything in their power to help their students succeed.  Being a small school, teachers get to know their students on a one-on-one level.  By forming bonds with one another, the teachers get a better understanding of the student.  I’ve had the pleasure of bonding with many of my teachers and although they have to “lay down the law” once in a while, they’re always there to help.  Now if a student is too shy to talk to a teacher, our guidance counselors are well prepared to help a student out.  If you are having family problems, friend problems, problems with a teacher, or anyone, a counselor is there to talk; they will help find the right solution for your situation.  All in all it is incredibly easy to make friends at East-West, because like you, we all faced the same issue of going into a new school.

What make’s East-West so unique is our language programs. While many other schools teach their students Spanish, Latin, or Italian the students of East-West get to choose between Japanese, Chinese, or Korean. Because these countries are economically growing and are turning into world leaders, we should focus on these languages so that in the future we are prepared to make long lasting connections.  Alongside these classes, every summer East-West offers students the opportunity to travel to China, Korea, and Japan.

This summer I had the pleasure of traveling to Japan, and if it weren’t for my school offering this trip, it would have been highly unlikely that I would ever get to go.  I could go on and on about the amazing sights we saw and how the city of Nagoya is a million times better than New York, but what I fell in love with was my host family.  Instead of staying at a hotel, each student stayed at a host family’s home.  My parents were a little apprehensive of shipping me off to another country and now they had to worry about me staying at a stranger’s home.  I am here to tell you that my host family treated me like family, if not better.  Every one of us made a special bond with our families and the last day in Japan was the worst.  No one wanted to leave, there were too many things left to do and so many things we didn’t get to say, getting on the plane was one of the hardest thing to do because you simply did not want to leave.  That day was also very emotional (even for the boys) you felt so thankful for the opportunity to travel but even more so for the family that accepted you into their home.

For those 10 days, these “strangers” were our parents, our sisters, our brothers, our families. Speaking with many of the students that went to Japan, there are no ifs or buts, we all are returning to Japan to continue on our adventure as well as stop by and visit the family.

If you are considering East-West, take it from someone who has been here for six years, it’s a great school.  There are so many opportunities East-West has to offer, it’s only a matter of you taking advantage of it.  Looking back at the past five years I’ve been at East-West, I really cannot complain.

Jimena Galindo '13

 

East-West is a very unique school.  When I first came to this school, I was quiet and didn’t know who to talk to or who to hang out with.  However, when the students and the teachers came up to me and started talking to me, I felt more at home. The languages that were offered were very different.  The typical language in high school is Spanish or French.  Yet in this school, we have the option to learn Japanese, Korean, and Chinese.  These are some of the things that make East-West unique.

I think this school is great.  I say this because, without East-West and its language options, I would have never gone to South Korea and Japan.  I took Korean in middle school and other students, myself included, visited South Korea.  The rules over there are much stricter than in the U.S.  However I liked it because there was no litter anywhere, people were respectful, nobody was loud, the country, the mountains, old fashion houses, was beautiful.   We all had an amazing time; some of us didn’t want to come back to the States.  South Korea was a great experience.

Now Japan was a life changing experience.  The country is beautiful and the people are very l respectful. Everybody there has respect for each other.  Here in New York the buses are loud and are filled with screaming bunches of teenage kids doing stupid stuff.  In Japan the buses were quiet and the trains were extremely quiet, you could hear a pin drop.  Japanese people keep to themselves.  For example, if you put your wallet down and walk away and watch it, nobody will take it because it is not theirs, and it has nothing to do with their life, so they keep on walking.  My host family in Japan was very nice and they taught me some words and phrases, taught me how to use chopsticks better, joked with me, and they always had a smile on their face.  They made me look at life differently.  Japan changed my lifestyle.  I live differently and I act differently.

Because of South Korea, Japan, East-West, the teachers and my parents, I have been able to go to these countries and the fact that I can speak a little Korean and Japanese is even better.  I can cherish this in my life.  This is why I think this school, East-West School of International Studies, is a unique and great school.

Sebastian Ramirez '14

I was always encouraged to create clubs and become a well-rounded student.  One who is not just on the honor roll every semester, but also one that is involved after school and gives back to the East-West community and helps to interact and unite everyone.  I was encouraged to be a leader that represents the rest of the student body fairly and participate in public speaking as often as possible.  I hope to go into journalism so I was able to gain some experience with the news internship at Councilman Koo's office.  My teachers always told me about scholarships such as the Project Bridge program I was part of from the Korea Society - scholarship for study tour to Korea. 

One of the greatest things I’ve learned from East-West is the acceptance of other cultures. I’ve gained this new desire to learn of other cultures and somehow make them my own.  I really love interacting with a diverse group of people and this school has given me that platform.  I have been given so many great opportunities and scholarships thanks to those in this school.  I have grown a lot since my first year – from being a 70 to 80 student in 7thgrade, in my senior year I became Class of 2012 Salutatorian.  From not being involved in any clubs, I became a student that spent most of her after school time dedicated to clubs.  From being someone whose heart pounded and palms sweated when presenting something to class, I became a student who can confidently speak in front of hundreds of people.  From being “any other student” I became someone who students and teachers positively recognize.  After experiencing everything I have and meeting some of the greatest teachers and friends in my life – I am proud to say that I was a part of the East-West family for 6 years now.  These people have always supported me, when I was at my worst of times, and the best of times.  This is a journey I will always cherish and never forget.   I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.  I am very grateful.

Hiba Rashid '12

East-West School of International Studies is an excellent school to attend. My son graduated from East-West Class of 2012 in June. Before coming to EWSIS he had the hardest time adjusting with junior high school. He was lost in a system with teachers who had no time or patience to deal with students' individual needs. There were also a lot of violence and gang activity going on within the JHS. It was like sending my son to war. My son became very quiet and distant, his grades were horrible, and he never wanted to go to school. I truly believe he would have dropped out of high school if he did not go to East-West. Once my son began going to EWSIS he became a completely different person. It was like a metamorphosis. He was provided with a safe environment to grow academically with social and emotional support that he truly needed to become the young man that he is today. The teachers are amazing! The Principal is the best! The entire staff treated my son as if he was their own. My son is a confident young man with high self esteem, he is now attending college. The graduation rate for this school is 99% that in itself is a miracle. I highly recommend EWSIS! 



 

Parent of HS Student

My daughter entered East-West in the 8thgrade after she had experienced some difficulties with academics in her zoned middle school.  She had struggled with math and English through 6thand 7thgrade and fell behind with her grades.  Unfortunately her school, which was enormously overcrowded, did not provide her additional support and she continued to flounder.  She was fortunate enough to have been given a chance in the 8thgrade at East-West.  I say fortunate because every student at East-West is treated individually and given the full academic, social, and emotional support from the kind and dedicated staff.   With this support she has made a true turn around and is now excited to attend high school at East-West.  East-West holds high expectations for every child in the school while providing every child with the necessary support and guidance to help them graduate and get accepted to an accredited university.

Erin Rappaport, Parent of MS Student

Dearest Mr. Sherman,

I truly enjoyed our conversation yesterday afternoon. Your life’s experiences have helped shape you into the caring man you are today. I am writing the letter; you can use it verbatim. Please do not use my daughter’s name as I do not want to embarrass her. Thank-you so much for all that you do, and all whom you care about, it shows loud and clear!! We are blessed to have you.

I cannot say enough about the East-West School of International Studies. I highly recommend it for so many reasons, and quite frankly I feel that this is the absolute best place for my child to receive her high school education, ensuring that her college preparatory needs are being met.

I have this lovely 15-year-old daughter. She is quiet and reserved, although brilliant in her own way and witty as can be. At home she shines as our star. Her school experience had not been anything like this until she arrived at your school. As a little girl she struggled with her schoolwork, and had a hard time forming friendships. She repeated a grade at an age that affected her self-esteem. School was never an enjoyable part of life, but a responsibility that had to be endured. We did all that we could to help. She became a quiet, lovely young lady, who just passed most subjects, and did well in the few that sparked her attention.

Applying to high school made me very fearful for our daughter. High school is the most important time in a child’s education. In elementary, if you just pass it’s not so bad, because hopefully as you mature you catch on quicker and understand easier. Middle school is important as you are now learning things like how to study and work more on a higher level; and again, if you just pass, maybe you are just a late bloomer and high school will be where you "get it". That in life when you give it you all, 100%, it’s so much more rewarding to you, and how you feel about yourself.

We took all the tests and my daughter was accepted into several schools, including catholic schools. We wanted a small school, but none existed that we knew of. A client of mine told me about East-West. It sounded great, but could it really be so?? Well let me tell you....it is so, and so much better than any other school in New York City. Even better than the 2000 schools!

My beautiful daughter, the quiet one....has made the Honor Roll three marking periods. She strives to do better and enjoys it. She has made the nicest bunch of friends from so many different cultures where no one shuts her out because we are not the same!! Friendships were made quickly here and school makes her happy! She never says, "I don't want to go to school today" anymore. This school has the most caring staff I have ever met, a principal who loves what he does, and students that are just as kind as my on child.

I thank all of the staff, from the bottom of my heart, for helping my daughter shine. You are all wonderful at the many jobs that you do, and we are so much more fortunate to have you guiding our children!                               

Sincerely,

Diane Barbarito

Parent of High School Student

The teachers are all very kind. They care about every student. My son Andrew transferred here because I heard that East-West is a great school.

Emily Wu, Parent of MS Student

I came to East-West, freshmen year, as a shy, not very out-spoken, antisocial individual. This all changed as I became more engaged with school activities and befriended many people. I graduated this year as the valedictorian. Through studying Asian language and culture, I became more aware of the world around me in terms of the global community. I’m proud to say that, when saying ‘hello’ in Japanese or Korean, one must bow.

My experiences in East-West have taught how to be a leader in various clubs, mature as an individual, perform hours of community service as a humanitarian, become independent as a young adult and a better person in general. The East-West experience is unforgettable and will open many opportunities in the future with the all the skills and tools gained over four years. I left East-West as a completely different person, for the better.    In East-West, I have also grown as language learner. Learning Chinese was hard, but a very rewarding experience. Recently, I was accepted into the Chinese Flagship Center Program at Hunter College, where I will be able to fluently speak Chinese after four years. The first three years of the program, I will have the luxury to learn Mandarin Chinese. Eventually, the last year of my career at Hunter College as a student, I will be sent to China to study at Nanjing University for a semester and then an internship in China, the second semester.   This major in Chinese is a complement to my International Relations major, where I will be studying to pursue a career as an ambassador or diplomat to China in the future. If it wasn't for East-West, I wouldn't be where I am today.
Christian Flores '11

I have had a good time in the four years I have been at East-West. I was even given a scholarship to attend a free trip to Korea. I was exposed to a completely new culture and observed how others on the other side of the globe live their lives.  Our teachers also traveled with us, one of them being Ms. Rhi, a Korean teacher, who helped us travel around Korea and guide us around its amazing cities. 

The teachers here at East West also made it worthwhile. Most of them offer tutoring and help on the subjects they teach. They really make sure that almost all the students pass each marking period. I can truly say that I am going to miss East-West. I have a lot of memories here which I cherish, and a lot more to make as I leave with the things I learned onto the road of success.   Each step I take puts me closer to success and East-West was one of those important steps. Every step takes me up closer to success and there is no such thing as failure, just temporary failure disguised as success. We just have to have our eyes and mind open when it appears.
Nicholas Fontanet '11

I am Rayon Wright from the first graduating class of East-West. To have that title is an honor. Upon graduating from junior high in Brooklyn, I wanted to go to a high school where I would be happy and genuinely loved. I have also always been fascinated about Asian culture and wanted to know more. I have been to both China and Korea through East-West and they have been the best educational trips I have ever been on. 

During my years at East-West, I produced a radio documentary for “Radio Rookies,” a show on National Public Radio, which showed my love for the Korean music industry. I wanted to share that it is okay for a non-Korean person to have dreams and goals in the Asian entertainment Industry. One of my English teachers encouraged me to apply. I stayed involved with NPR until I eventually became an intern as a college student. I am working on producing another show with them.   I am currently studying recording and production at college while continuing my language studies. Recently, I have been offered an internship at a production studio in Korea. I hope to work and live abroad. East-West opened the door for me.
Rayon Wright '10

This school is a level above! When I first entered East-West in 8th grade, I was very excited because it is a school that teaches Japanese. It was my main reason for coming to this school. When I got used to the environment and the work, East-West can become a home away from home. The teachers are extremely nice.

My dream is to go to Japan one day and become a game designer. I view this school as part of the process of becoming a game designer. When I was in ninth grade, I wrote a story for a class project in ELA that I can use as a story line for a game, and the same year I learned that some games are based on history, like Assassin’s Creed. In short, this school has many opportunities for incoming students. Just being here, you never know what you’re going to learn next. Right now I am in 11th grade and I’m still learning about the things I am most interested in.
Raphael S. '13

As a first year science teacher, the support I received from the administration and fellow teachers was more than I hoped for. 

  The administration provided a support group called the “First Year Teacher Circle”, in which we met to discuss various topics and concerns we had as new teachers. I was also a member of TEAM ELL, a professional learning group comprised of teachers from different fields. We met weekly with an ESL Coach to discuss how we can better support our English Language Learners and develop better practices. I received great mentoring support from the head of the science department inside and outside of the classroom and encouragement and advice from other helpful teachers which helped me accommodate to this school. Of course, without the support staff such as the guidance counselors, deans, secretaries, community assistants/associates and the school aides, many of the tasks I do outside of class would be difficult.  I was able to go above and beyond by offering physics tutoring on weekends and supervising a student fitness club. I plan to lead the photography club next year.   To work with such a great group of people is a rarity. As a first year teacher, it is a privilege to work beside them in this unique school.
Ryo Shibata, Physics Teacher

None of the 800 or so days of my own high school career were as absorbing or revelatory as a single day observing what goes on at East-West, where the future is quite literally being invented in one of the most exciting and diverse neighborhoods in New York City.

Although East-West is a relatively new institution, the school has already developed a distinctive, cooperative culture in which the ubiquitous anti-bullying posters of the public school system seem decidedly out of place. When Principal Sherman raised his arm to quiet the auditorium for morning assembly, the air was instantly filled with the upraised hands of teachers and students alike, and the normal morning hubbub quickly subsided in a triumph not so much of discipline as of dedication to a common purpose.   This dedication, which was on constant display even on the Friday before the start of Regents Exams, did not snuff out the liveliness of class discussions or the very funny (and nondisruptive) side banter between class members.   I came away from my day at East-West convinced that its graduates will form part of a new generation of bright, wellinformed, internationally minded New Yorkers from whom the city, the nation and the world can expect great things.
Rick Streicker, Journalist