Rebuilding the Bronx: New charter school building underway in the East Bronx
The school is authorized to serve students through fifth grade and plans to add one grade each year. School leaders say they intend to seek approval to expand through eighth grade when their charter comes up for renewal.
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Crews are digging into the ground on East Tremont Avenue, preparing the foundation for a new public charter school building expected to welcome students in 2028.
The future home of Next Generation Charter School at 1780 East Tremont Ave. will serve families in Parkchester, Van Nest and surrounding East Bronx neighborhoods.
Plans for the 60,000-square-foot building include science labs, art studios, separate cafeterias and a full-size gym, according to developer Andrew Esposito of Apex Development Group. A preliminary rendering shows the proposed building, though the design could change.
The previous building has been demolished. Esposito says crews are bracing neighboring properties as they prepare the site for construction.
The developer expects to finish the building in spring 2028, with students moving in later that year.
Next Generation Executive Director Malik Russell says the school plans to serve kindergarten through second grade when it moves into the new building. Each grade will have three classes and a total of 78 students.
The school is authorized to serve students through fifth grade and plans to add one grade each year. School leaders say they intend to seek approval to expand through eighth grade when their charter comes up for renewal.
“We believe that this area in particular really deserves a great school, a great public school option,” Russell said.
The organization already operates schools serving students across kindergarten through 12th grade in Highbridge. Russell says its approach combines academics, helping children speak up for themselves and building relationships with families.
He says hiring educators who reflect the communities they serve is part of that work.
“They have teachers and administrators that look like them that come from the same places they do, and we believe in that,” Russell said.
The project comes as the surrounding area prepares for new housing and the future Parkchester/Van Nest Metro-North station. School leaders say they chose the location to serve both families who already live in the neighborhood and those who may move there.
