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 A Brief History of HSES

Over 30 years ago , the High School for Environmental Studies opened its doors to 150 freshmen in response to a growing consciousness of environmental issues and in anticipation of a rapidly expanding field of environmental professions. It was created to become a model in urban environmental education and an exemplary high school overall by promoting environmentally literate citizenry in a rigorous college preparatory program.

Even today, while educating over 1,300 students (grades 9-12), HSES holds tightly to those initiatives. Attendance rates and test scores continue to exceed expectations, and as a result, the school has been recognized for excellence in education in numerous forums. The Manhattan Superintendent recognized HSES as a demonstration site for school standards and professional development, as well as a school-to-career consortium member. Perhaps the most telling indicator of the school’s success is that the number of applicants has grown tenfold over the years.

Efforts are made to incorporate environmental themes into the curriculum, realizing the purpose of the school while helping to define its innovative approach. The High School for Environmental Studies aims to reach high standards of excellence by providing a unique curriculum that combines environmentally-infused college preparatory courses with applied-learning experiences and hands-on activities.

Furthermore, HSES strives to integrate the rich cultural, economic, and social diversity of New York City into its program. Students, families, faculty, and staff at HSES are encouraged to maintain strong values and work collaboratively to meet and overcome challenges.

HSES partnerships include: 

• Council on the Environment of New York City 

• The Nature Conservancy 

• Sierra Club

• NYC FIRST ROBOTICS FRC and FTC programs

• Mouse.org

• Student Conservation Association

• New York City Public Library

• New York Aquarium

• Toshiba America Foundation

• Open Stages at Lincoln Center

• American Museum of Natural History

• New York Historical Society

• Columbia University Center for Ecological Research and Conservation (CERC) 

• John Jay College

• University of Vermont

• City University of New York (CUNY)

• State University of New York (SUNY) Albany

• SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF)

• Hunter College

• Jewish Board of Family and Children Services

• Relationship Abuse Prevention Program (RAPP)

• Sponsors for Education Opportunity (SEO)

• Lincoln Center Theater's Open Stages Education Program