Through partnerships with the Department of Transportation, Bike New York, and Recycle A Bicycle, my school has been fortunate to bring many aspects of cycling to students, filling a social-emotional need, providing opportunities for internships and skill building. In the Fall and Spring, students learn to ride a bike for the very first time, or just how to safely ride in their new surroundings and in a group. In the Winter, twice a week students take part in an Earn-A-Bike program, logging hours in our on-site bike shop, refurbishing donated bikes. We hope to offer services to staff and students as well, as we expand.
At the International High School at Union Square, our students who come from 49 countries, speak 33 different home languages, and practice a variety of religious faiths. 85% of our students are eligible for free school meals, many are overage for their grade level and/or are Students with Interrupted Formal Education (SIFE) who by definition have had gaps of two or more years in formal schooling due to home country civil unrest and family economic factors. In addition to coming to us from all corners of the world, our students commute from all five boroughs to our school.