Academics
96%
graduate
in 4 years
95%
enroll in college or
career programs
15
advanced placement
and college-level
courses available
21st Century Classrooms
Our educational approach is grounded in strong teaching, purposeful support, and meaningful relationships. We center student learning style through engaging instruction, clear expectations, and well informed feedback. Our educators work collaboratively to scaffold dynamic learning experiences that challenge students to grow their understanding. The result is a classroom environment where students are known, supported, and encouraged to take academic risks.
Our focus? Giving students the tools needed to thrive in college, career, and civic life.
Students set goals, manage long-term projects, collaborate, and reflect on their growth. Teachers provide targeted supports such as modeling, check-ins, and opportunities for revision so students build independence over time.
New Design emphasizes inquiry-based learning, structured collaboration, and real-world problem solving.
Our pathways include innovative courses such as Design for Life and rigorous ones like Intro to Psychology. Additionally, design-focused courses require students to plan and produce multimedia campaigns, manage timelines, divide responsibilities, and present to audiences. Classes like Stivics provide students opportunities to research community issues, develop solutions, and pitch ideas—strengthening organization, communication, and decision-making skills along the way. These experiences help students practice planning, prioritizing, and following through, which are essential for college and career success.
Check out our Course Catalog.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
Our Advanced Placement (AP) program is a key part of our overall mission. In addition to 6 honors classes, New Design also offers 6 AP courses like AP English Language & Composition, AP English Literature & Composition, AP U.S. History, AP World History, and AP Studio Art (2D).
We’re committed to offering a rigorous academic pathway that prepares students for success in college and beyond.
These courses challenge students to think critically, engage in deep inquiry, and demonstrate mastery of content at college standards. By enrolling in AP courses, students gain a competitive edge: they experience what college‑level work is like, build stronger study habits, and often earn college credit or advanced placement at universities.
Check out our Course Catalog.
Early College Courses
We believe it is never too early to begin the college process. Enrolling in ECE courses gives students a leg up on the college process, making them more attractive to colleges during their application process.
New Design is partnered with the National Education Opportunity Network (NEON) to offer two credit-bearing college courses to 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students each semester. Taught by college professors and University Teaching Fellows, these courses are completely free and typically occur during the school day. Past course offerings have included Psychology from Howard University, Sociology from Arizona State University, and the History of Clothing from Barnard University—all credits transferable.
New Design has also partnered with Hunter College (CUNY) to provide rising 10th and 11th graders with the Youth Educators Program (YEP), a free, four-semester education track. Students take courses such as Expository Writing, Intro to Urban Ed, Culturally Responsive & Sustaining Teaching, and Special Education.
By graduation, students walk away with 12 transferable college credits!
Students can also take CollegeNOW Courses via CUNY Kingsborough on Saturdays and evenings. These courses challenge students to experience college, earn free early college credits, and demonstrate mastery of content at college standards.
Learn more about our College and Career Supports.
Other College Resources
Check out the Course Catalog for Fall 2025!
2026 - 2027 Course Catalog Coming Soon!
Ready to apply to New Design High?
Visit our admissions page to learn how!
