Small school, big heart
Tucked in the heart of New York City, The Smith School offers an alternative approach to education rooted in compassion, community, and customization. Guided by the motto “Small School, Big Heart,” Smith delivers a highly personalized academic experience where students are known, supported, and empowered to grow – academically, socially, and emotionally.
“At Smith, we’re committed to creating a nurturing space where every student can thrive,” says Lee Lang, guidance counselor and director of outreach. “We pride ourselves on being open to all accommodations and maintaining a school culture where every learner feels seen and supported.”
Making communication seamless with Alma
Alma plays a central role in helping The Smith School maintain strong connections between educators, families, and students. As the school’s student information system, Alma supports attendance, grading, and communication – providing staff and parents with real-time visibility into student progress and daily school life.
“Alma helps us stay in sync,” explains Lang. “It’s a tool that supports our values of clarity, communication, and consistency, which are key when working so closely with each individual student and their family.”
Using EdTech to personalize and engage
To extend the impact of its small-class model, The Smith School integrates a curated mix of educational tools into the classroom experience. Platforms like Google Classroom and Google Docs support collaboration and immediate feedback, while Khan Academy offers opportunities for self-paced exploration. Kahoot reinforces key concepts through gamified quizzes, and Canva fuels creativity in student projects and presentations.
Beyond the classroom, the school encourages staff to prioritize wellness using the Headspace app, reinforcing a culture of mindfulness and mental health that benefits both educators and students.
“These tools aren’t just trendy add-ons,” says Lang. “They’re intentionally selected to support engagement, creativity, and the well-being of our entire school community.”
What sets Smith apart?
What makes The Smith School unique is the depth of its personalization – an alternative model that combines academic excellence with emotional support, technology integration, and a deep commitment to family involvement.
In addition to a robust academic curriculum, Smith students are encouraged to express themselves through the arts, including a vibrant music department that showcases student talent on the school’s YouTube channel.
Whether it’s a student finding their rhythm in music, gaining confidence through project-based learning, or developing mindfulness habits alongside their academic skills, The Smith School continues to lead with heart.
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