Gillen Brewer School

Gillen Brewer School
The Gillen Brewer School on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York, established in 1992 by Laura Bilicic and Laurie Dubos, emerged as a response to the educational needs of children facing significant learning challenges. In their roles as special education educators, they recognized a pressing demand for a New York City institution that would provide a nurturing, educational haven for families with children grappling with distinct special needs. Central to their vision was the belief that a well-informed and knowledgeable family played a pivotal role in a child's comprehensive education.
In homage to their grandmothers, Mattie Gillen and Virginia Brewer, the founders christened the school, emphasizing the significance of family bonds. Commencing its journey with a single student in 1992, the school gradually expanded its horizons, ultimately embracing a community of 48 students spanning from Pre-K to second grade.
At the heart of Gillen Brewer School's student culture lies an unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of unity and enthusiasm. A common thread weaves through the student body as they collectively embrace the principles of readiness, responsibility, and safety. The institution nurtures an environment where students are actively encouraged to embrace one another's unique qualities, instilled with the belief that each individual is on a journey of growth within the school's nurturing embrace.
While individual classrooms organize charity-driven initiatives, the staff ensures that all students actively participate, fostering a sense of community engagement from an early age. This spirit of togetherness extends beyond the classroom as students convene for community lunches and end-of-day activities that seamlessly transcend the confines of classroom boundaries.
Programs in Gillen Brewer School
Gillen Brewer School firmly upholds the belief that optimal learning occurs within an environment of safety, acceptance, and enjoyable education experiences. Incorporating a comprehensive language arts curriculum, Gillen Brewer School integrates a balanced literacy program alongside a multi-sensory, phonetically rooted approach to reading and writing. The institution's math instruction embraces a multi-sensory method, actively engaging students in "hands-on" projects that facilitate a profound understanding of mathematical concepts through visual aids and manipulatives.
Technology's growing significance within the realm of education is acknowledged by Gillen Brewer School, where SMART Boards, Google Chromebooks, iPads, and other tools enhance the learning process. Students are introduced to computer literacy, utilizing developmentally appropriate methods to navigate the digital landscape. Computer programs are utilized for reinforcing math and reading skills, developing keyboarding proficiency, and amplifying writing and research abilities.
The arts take center stage at Gillen Brewer School, providing children with alternative avenues for self-expression and fostering an enriched appreciation of artistic endeavors. Music and art are celebrated as vehicles for self-expression and cultural enrichment, with school classes often venturing to cultural institutions, inviting artists and performers to share their insights with students.
Science education at Gillen Brewer School is characterized by an inquiry-based approach, empowering students to formulate their questions and conduct experiments to uncover answers. Projects are hands-on and emphasize active student exploration of the living world and the physical environment. Unit topics align with students' interests and developmental stages while remaining grounded in modified New York State standards.
Gillen Brewer School collaborates with the Asphalt Green sports program, extending an array of athletic opportunities to its students, including swimming, gymnastics, soccer, basketball, martial arts, yoga, and floor hockey.
In tandem with its robust academic curriculum, the institution prioritizes the social and emotional development of each child. This emphasis includes explicit instruction in building relationships, enhancing social communication skills, and honing problem-solving abilities. The curriculum at Gillen Brewer School is enhanced through the incorporation of external programs and experts, seamlessly integrated into daily lessons. Some of the programs integrated annually encompass:

• Asphalt Green Sports Program at Gillen Brewer School: Conveniently situated two blocks from the school, Asphalt Green provides diverse sports activities such as swimming, gymnastics, soccer, basketball, martial arts, yoga, floor hockey, and baseball.
• The Art Farm in the City: This program offers students a unique opportunity to engage with animals, fostering a connection with the natural world and cultivating care and compassion for living creatures.
• Chess Class at Gillen Brewer School: A Chess Master visits the school to teach students chess, with opportunities for students to practice and play the game during lunch and choice time.
• Field Trips at Gillen Brewer School: Regular field trips around NYC allow students to explore the city's remarkable resources.
• Art at Gillen Brewer School: Regardless of background or ability, art is a unifying element that fosters personal expression and exploration. The Art Room serves as a creative space for students to engage non-verbally, employing a curriculum that encompasses a variety of materials, themes, and ideas. The curriculum covers drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and collage, with collaborations with esteemed arts institutions like the Museum of Modern Art, The Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, as well as visiting artists enriching the classroom experience.

Gillen Brewer School has implemented an inquiry-based approach to its science curriculum, encouraging students to independently investigate topics and materials through self-directed experiments. This teaching method, endorsed as the gold standard by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and various science education leaders, aligns well with the school's student population. It allows for tailored units that cater to students' interests and developmental levels while adhering to the standards set by New York State.
To offer students immersive and hands-on encounters with real animals, the school collaborates with a local petting zoo known as the Art Farm in the City. Regular visits from Gabby Sachs of The Art Farm introduce various animals to each class, ranging from chinchillas and doves to lizards, guinea pigs, and even hissing cockroaches. This program, conducted over the academic year, effectively reinforces pertinent New York State standards.
Despite its urban setting, Gillen Brewer School capitalizes on the proximity of Carl Schurz Park. This nearby natural haven provides the opportunity for nature walks, bug exploration, examination of local flora, and birdwatching, fostering an appreciation for the natural world among students.

Accommodation in Gillen Brewer School
The Gillen Brewer School in New York, while offering exceptional education, does not provide accommodation for its students. However, for international students seeking a home away from home in this vibrant city, a range of enticing options await. One avenue to consider is the enriching experience of a homestay. Homestays offer more than just accommodation; they immerse students in the local culture and lifestyle. Living with a host family fosters language acquisition, cultural exchange, and a deeper understanding of the city. While prices can vary, a typical homestay in New York may cost around $1,200 USD to $1,800 per month, covering room and board.
For those desiring greater independence, off-campus apartments present an exciting possibility. The prices of apartments fluctuate according to factors such as location, size, and amenities. Generally, shared apartments in New York range from $1,500 USD to $2,500 per month, offering students the opportunity to experience city living and explore its diverse neighborhoods.
Furthermore, co-living spaces have gained popularity among students. These modern arrangements blend shared accommodations with community living, often including amenities like co-working spaces and social events. Prices for co-living spaces may start at $1,000 USD per month.
Future Prospects after study in Gillen Brewer School
As students graduate from the Gillen Brewer School, a world of possibilities beckons them towards a future rich with promise. Beyond the nurturing classrooms and supportive community, Gillen Brewer graduates are poised to step onto a path paved with opportunities that extend far and wide.
One prominent avenue that opens up after completing higher education, such as university or college, is the option of acquiring a post-graduation work permit. Programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) offer graduates the chance to gain invaluable hands-on experience in their chosen fields. This bridge between education and professional life equips them with a competitive edge in the job market, reinforcing their journey towards success.
Amidst these promising avenues, graduates are also presented with the prospect of obtaining permanent residency in the United States. This journey involves navigating the legal pathways to secure long-term residency. As they settle into life and work, they contribute to the diverse fabric of American society, adding their unique stories to the nation's narrative.
Looking further ahead, the dream of becoming a US citizen shines brightly for Gillen Brewer alumni. The United States, renowned for its prosperity and vast array of opportunities, extends a genuine chance for graduates to embrace citizenship. As they tread this path, they cement their connection to a country that thrives on diversity and innovation, adding their voice to the collective tapestry of American identity. The journey from Gillen Brewer School to higher education and beyond is one that ignites potential and the spirit of exploration. Armed with a robust foundation and the support of an exceptional educational experience, graduates from the Gillen Brewer School embark on a trajectory that leads towards a future brimming with achievement. The diverse opportunities available to them reflect the essence of a nation built on dreams, hard work, and boundless prospects.

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