An overview of the KECSS Journey

MIDDLE SCHOOL: GRADES 6–8 

At KECSS, middle school students build the foundational skills needed for success in high school, college, and beyond. Students explore awareness of self, others, surrounding communities and the world around them in order to foster an understanding of academic and social topics that impact their lives both inside and outside of the school. We emphasize study habits, interpersonal communication, organization, time management, and note-taking as key strategies for success.

Our research-based Strategic Reading and Advisory Programs help students strengthen literacy and social-emotional skills. The Strategic Reading Program provides targeted support through programs like Just Words, Guided Reading, STARI, and Phonics for Reading. The Advisory Program fosters personal growth through small, supportive groups that focus on college and career exploration, collaboration, organization, and goal-setting.

FIRST YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL: GRADE 9 

Starting in 9th grade, KECSS students begin their college journey by taking introductory college courses designed to be engaging, challenging, and rewarding. These courses, taken together as a class, provide a supportive introduction to college-level learning with guidance from both KECSS and college instructors.

Freshmen follow a full schedule of rigorous high school courses while also enrolling in SPA1, their first college course, which takes place at KECSS after the regular school day.

SOPHOMORE YEAR: GRADE 10 

In 10th grade, KECSS students continue their college experience with two college courses per semester, taught at KECSS by Kingsborough Community College professors. These courses take place after the regular school day, allowing students to deepen their academic skills while balancing high school coursework.  

Students also engage in college and career exploration through Advisory classes, preparing them for future academic and professional pathways.

JUNIOR YEAR: GRADE 11

11th grade is an exciting milestone for KECSS students as they begin taking college classes on campus at Kingsborough Community College. With a split schedule, students start their mornings with high school classes at KECSS before traveling to the college for afternoon courses. This experience provides a true college learning environment while maintaining support from KECSS staff.

SENIOR YEAR: GRADE 12 

In 12th grade, KECSS students further immerse themselves in the college experience, starting their day with college classes at Kingsborough Community College before returning to KECSS for their remaining high school courses. By senior year, most diploma requirements are complete, allowing students to focus on earning college credits while preparing for their next steps after graduation.