In 1992, the High School for Environmental Studies opened its doors to 150 freshmen in response to a growing consciousness of environmental issues, and in anticipation of a rapidly expanding field of environmental professions. It was created to become a model in urban environmental education and an exemplary high school overall, by promoting environmentally literate citizenry in a rigorous college preparatory program. Even today, while educating of over 1,500 students (grades 9-12), HSES holds tightly to those initiatives. Attendance rates and test scores in the school continue to exceed expectations. As a result, it has been recognized for excellence in education in numerous forums. The Manhattan Superintendent recognized HSES as a demonstration site for school standards and professional development, as well as a school-to-career consortium member. Perhaps the most telling indicator of the school’s success is that the number of applicants has grown tenfold over the years.

HSES can attribute a great deal of this success to the Friends of HSES, a not-for-profit organization built into the design of the school to promote and support its goals. This foundation has continually provided resources and experiential learning opportunities to the school. Specifically, the Friends of HSES offers professional development for faculty, and hands-on fieldwork for students throughout the year. These efforts are made to incorporate environmental themes into the curriculum, realizing the purpose of the school while helping to define its innovative approach. The High School for Environmental Studies aims to reach high standards of excellence by providing a unique curriculum that combines environmentally-infused college preparatory courses with applied-learning experiences and hands-on activities. Furthermore, HSES strives to integrate the rich cultural, economic, and social diversity of New York City into its program. Students, families, faculty, and staff at HSES are encouraged to maintain strong values and work collaboratively to meet and overcome challenges.

Community and Partnerships
HSES partnerships include Mt. Sinai Hospital, CUNY, and the University of Vermont, and 1010 WINS News. The Friends of HSES is a not-for-profit group of individuals from the environmental sector who provided resources and support for the school's programs and partnerships.

Special Academic Programs
HSES has a full regents curriculum and advanced placement courses. Some of the unique elective classes in the school include Environmental Ethics, Environmental Seminar, Wildlife Conservation, Marine Science, Calculus, Multi-level Band, Vocal Music, College Writing, Sociology, Psychology, Drama, Acting, Media, Weight-training and Yoga. HSES also has special programs including the CUNY College Now Program and Environmental Internship.

AP Classes
AP college level courses are indicated by an “X” in the course code on the transcript, and include Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Calculus, English Literature, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, and U.S. History.

World Languages
HSES has language classes in French, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, and Spanish Native Language Arts.

Extracurricular Activities and Sports
Students at HSES have the opportunity to become involved in numerous activities, including Recycling, Ecology, Roof Gardening, Debate Team, Mock Trial, School Newspaper, Basketball, Softball, Volleyball, Soccer, Tennis, Step Team, Tech Team, Internet Club, Green News, Video, Moot Court, Leadership, Chorus, Jazz Band, Homework Help Center, International Travel, Political Club, Web Design Competition, Poster Committee, Yearbook Committee, Hispanic Heritage Club and Student Council.

Parent / School Support
The parents and families of HSES are also a crucial part of the community. The school draws and offers support through the following groups and activities: Parents Association, School Leadership Team, school newsletters, and Parent Evening Counseling. Parents promote school activities such as College Night, the Annual Arts Testimonial, Senior Awards Night, Band and Choral Concerts, and Parent Information Workshops.

Grading / Ranking System
Students are graded on a numerical scale. The final report for each subject class is recorded with a minimum score of 0 and a maximum grade of 100. The final grade point average is unweighted, but the rank index reflects a weighted average. Students’ ranks are based on their rank index – or their weighted average.

Number Grades Letter Grades*