One of the essential pieces in building that culture at ESA is our Big Sib Program, which pairs junior and senior mentors with 9th grade students in order to guide the younger students through their first year as ESA and bring them into the fold of the ESA family. This includes developing students’ perseverance, personal responsibility, and leadership skills that will prepare them for citizenship and for success in college and career.
An integral part of the Big Sib program is a 3-day overnight retreat in upstate New York, where students participate in team-building activities to facilitate respectful and trusting relationships with their mentees. For many of our students, it is their first opportunity to travel outside of New York City and engage in expeditionary learning in the wilderness. It is an unforgettable experience that many students describe as the highlight of their time at ESA. Space is limited so if you are interested in attending, please make sure to secure your spot by completing the paperwork as quickly as possible. The payment can wait if needed, until the due date.
If your child is participating in the program, they should have received a packet with permission slips and a packing list.
We would prefer payments of cash/check (to NYCDOE), but if you would like to pay online, you may do so here. Please note that there is a 3% credit card processing fee. Thank you!