Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School, a school where lessons are taught in Hebrew and English, received its charter in June and is set to open this fall. The Upper Manhattan bilingual school's next step was to hire a founding head of school, and Robin Natman was recently appointed to the position.

Harlem Hebrew students proudly display work created in art class.

In June, Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School was granted a charter by the New York State Board of Regents to open a school in the fall of 2013 in Community School District III in Manhattan. Harlem Hebrew is a free, public charter school with 156 students in grades K-1. Each year, the school will grow by one grade until the fifth year of its charter, when it will serve students in grades K-5. Harlem Hebrew is open to all grade-eligible children, and students will be admitted through a random lottery.

Harlem Hebrew offers an academically challenging K-5 curriculum, which includes intensive instruction in Hebrew, as well as English, in music, physical education, art, and technology. Students will develop a strong sense of social and civic responsibility through the integration of service learning and community service. Harlem Hebrew’s academic program is also prepared to serve students with special needs and English-language learners.

As Harlem Hebrew begins this new chapter, it also welcomes Robin Natman as founding head of school. Sara Berman, chair of the Harlem Hebrew board, says, “She will bring a great passion for learning, particularly in early literacy, that will define the right tone and path for our students and the great school we intend to build.”

The school also offers an extended day from 8am-4pm and transportation for students that require it.