New Basketball-Themed School Thrives in the Bronx

Officials are highlighting the success of the Bronx’s first basketball-themed charter school, which has proven to be a big hit with students.

The Earl Monroe New Renaissance Basketball Charter School, named after NBA legend Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, celebrated its first graduating class of 89 students in June.

Last year, the school was recognized as a semifinalist for the Yas Award, which honors educational innovation.

Founder Dan Klores, a noted producer and playwright, expressed the school’s mission, saying, “We have the freedom to be creative. Basketball is a way to reach the hearts of young people. That’s just common sense.”

The school also provides support for students in their first year of college, and offers a “leap year” option for graduates to stay an extra year to figure out their future steps.

With 98% of its students being Black and Latino and a significant portion having special needs, the school has demonstrated strong overall performance both academically and athletically.

A new, state-of-the-art five-story building is currently being developed in Mott Haven, a neighborhood facing economic challenges.

The curriculum prioritizes not just sports, but also various business aspects tied to basketball, including marketing, nutrition, and media. This broad approach ensures students gain hands-on experience beyond just athletics. Honor students even have the chance to study abroad.

For instance, 15-year-old Monica Barros, who’s keen on medicine and forensics, took part in a program at the Hospital for Special Surgery and explored a cadaver lab in Costa Rica. She shares, “I was able to wear scrubs” and adds that she’s really pleased with the opportunities provided by the school, highlighting the sense of community.

Parent Diane Candelario finds the school to be a good fit for her son, Xavier Melendez. He has been involved in designing a sportswear marketing campaign showcased at the NBA Store and even participated in a fashion show.

Candelario notes, “It’s a really good school. The students stay focused.”

Monroe’s CEO Emmanuel George emphasizes that the school’s mission encompasses academic rigor combined with access to professionals from various fields, which helps students gain valuable real-world experience. “We drive on both sides of the road,” George remarked, indicating the balance between academics and practical exposure.

The school helps students forge business connections, preparing them for their futures. Notable figures, including former Knicks legend Bill Bradley and Hall of Famer Nate “Tiny” Archibald, serve on the school’s advisory board.

William Wesley, a key member of the Knicks, is also involved with the school’s board of trustees. He commented on the invaluable network students build during their time there.

Former Knicks player Julius Randle recently contributed to the school’s fundraising efforts, donating $500 for every three-pointer he makes, raising $1.3 million with support from others.

In parallel, Klores is advocating for the expansion of charter schools, arguing that more options could greatly benefit low-income families. He criticized the barriers preventing the establishment of new charter institutions in the city, suggesting that it ultimately impacts the children’s education.

Recent reports show that charter schools in the Bronx are outpacing traditional public schools, with students scoring significantly higher in state English and math tests.