Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, Staten Island will welcome a brand-new public school specially designed for students with special needs. Staten Island Rise Academy, also known as PS 89, will be a District 75 school. It will offer personalized education and support for students from kindergarten through eighth grade who have significant learning challenges.
What Is District 75?
District 75 is a special part of New York City’s public school system that focuses on students with unique learning needs. These include students with autism, emotional challenges, sensory issues, cognitive delays, and multiple disabilities. These schools provide extra help and tailored lessons to make learning easier and more meaningful for every child.
Where Will the School Be Located?
Staten Island Rise Academy will be located in two new school buildings in the Travis neighborhood. Students will attend classes at two nearby schools:
- PS 121 at 4074 Victory Blvd.
- PS 26 at 4108 Victory Blvd. (just 1,000 feet away)
PS 121 is a brand-new, three-story elementary school building that will serve both general education and special education students. It will help reduce crowding at PS 26 and will have room for 547 students, including 96 seats for District 75 students.
What Makes Staten Island Rise Academy Special?
This school is the first of its kind in Staten Island. It brings high-quality, inclusive special education closer to home for many families in the borough. The goal is to help students grow into independent, confident individuals who can speak up for themselves and thrive.
The school’s mission is built around the values of RISE:
- Resilience
- Independence
- Self-Advocacy
- Empowerment
Every student will receive lessons and support based on their unique strengths and learning needs. The school will focus on helping kids grow socially and emotionally, not just academically.
Part of a Bigger Education Plan
Mayor Eric Adams and Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos announced the opening as part of a larger plan to improve education across the city. Staten Island Rise Academy is one of seven new schools opening in 2025-2026. These schools will offer more learning options and help reduce overcrowding.
Since Mayor Adams took office, 13,732 new school seats have been added in New York City through new schools and expanded programs. The new schools, including Staten Island Rise Academy, are part of that continuing effort.
A New Chapter for School Leaders
The school will also be part of the city’s New School Leaders Fellowship program. This is a special training opportunity for new principals. It helps them prepare to lead these new schools successfully by learning from experienced leaders.
Chancellor Aviles-Ramos said, “I’m thrilled that our new school leaders will be able to learn from each other and from other schools as they prepare for September.”
Job Opportunities Now Open
If you’re interested in working at Staten Island Rise Academy, applications are now open for several positions, including:
- Teachers
- Paraprofessionals
- Secretaries
- Social workers
- Guidance counselors
To apply, visit: schools.nyc.gov/careers
The opening of Staten Island Rise Academy is great news for families looking for quality special education close to home. With its strong mission and caring environment, the school promises to give every child the tools to succeed. Focused on resilience, independence, self-advocacy, and empowerment, PS 89 is set to become a shining example of inclusive learning on Staten Island. By creating more opportunities and welcoming diverse learners, the school is a step forward in making education fair and supportive for all.
