Creo College Preparatory Charter School

Background

Creo College Preparatory Charter School, established in 2019, is a tuition-free public charter school located in the Bronx, New York. The school serves students in grades 5 through 8, aiming to provide a rigorous academic program that prepares students for high school and beyond.

Key Strategic Focus

The school's strategic focus includes:

Extended Learning Time: Implementing a longer school day from 7:30 am to 4:45 pm, with enrichment activities until 5:30 pm, and a shorter day on Fridays ending at 1 pm. This schedule provides 75 additional instructional days annually compared to traditional NYC district schools.

Comprehensive Curriculum: Requiring all students to take computer science as a core subject each year, alongside traditional subjects, to equip them with essential 21st-century skills.

Advisory Groups: Conducting daily small-group advisory sessions where students discuss various topics, including media representation, friendships, and gender concerns, fostering a supportive community.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Creo College Preparatory Charter School's financials for the fiscal year ending June 2024 are as follows:

Revenue: $11,392,509

Expenses: $11,712,249

Net Income: -$319,740

Total Assets: $28,096,503

Total Liabilities: $28,610,015

Net Assets: -$513,512

Revenue sources include:

Contributions: $3,235,695 (28.4% of total revenue)

Program Services: $8,156,796 (71.6% of total revenue)

Notable expenses:

Executive Compensation: $185,246 (1.6% of total expenses)

Other Salaries and Wages: $5,158,763 (44.0% of total expenses)

Pipeline Development

The school has experienced significant growth since its inception:

Enrollment: Increased from 90 students in 2020 to 390 students in 2024.

Staffing: Grew from 8.6 full-time teachers in 2020 to 40 in 2024.

Student-Teacher Ratio: Improved from 10.3:1 in 2020 to 9.7:1 in 2024.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Creo College Preparatory Charter School emphasizes technology integration:

Computer Science Curriculum: Mandates annual computer science courses for all students, ensuring proficiency in digital literacy and coding.

Digital Learning Tools: Utilizes various digital platforms to enhance interactive learning experiences, particularly evident during the 2020 pandemic through the use of humor, charts, and multimedia in virtual lessons.

Leadership Team

Ben Samuels-Kalow: Head of School since the school's inception, overseeing academic programs and operations.

Colin Lieu: Chief of Staff, responsible for strategic planning and staff coordination.

Samantha Isobel Brotman: Assistant Principal, focusing on curriculum development and student affairs.

Leadership Changes

No significant leadership changes have been reported recently.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The charter school sector in the Bronx is competitive, with numerous institutions striving to provide quality education to underserved communities. The demand for charter schools remains high, driven by the pursuit of alternative educational options that offer specialized curricula and extended learning opportunities.

Competitor Analysis

Brilla College Preparatory Charter School: Serves grades K-10 with a focus on character development and academic excellence.

KIPP Freedom Charter School: Offers a rigorous curriculum for grades K-8, emphasizing college readiness.

Brilla Veritas Charter School: Provides education for grades K-6, integrating classical education principles.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Specific collaborations or partnerships are not detailed in the available information.

Operational Insights

Creo College Preparatory Charter School's extended instructional time and mandatory computer science curriculum distinguish it from competitors. The school's commitment to small-group advisory sessions fosters a supportive environment, addressing students' social and emotional needs alongside academic growth.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

To enhance its market position, the school could:

Academic Performance Improvement: Implement targeted interventions to raise proficiency levels in math and reading, aligning with or surpassing state averages.

Community Engagement: Strengthen relationships with local organizations to provide additional resources and support for students and families.

Program Expansion: Explore the addition of extracurricular activities and specialized programs to attract a broader student base and meet diverse interests.