Benjamin Altman School
PS 42M — Lower East Side, NYC
A collaborative, child-centered public elementary education for over a century.
Pre-K–5 • 500+ students • A community where every language and culture is celebrated.
Principal Search
We're interviewing candidates for our next principal and welcome community input. Learn about the process →
About Our School
Where every child belongs.
At The Benjamin Altman School, we nurture literate thinkers in Pre-K through 5th grade through literature and authentic learning experiences. Our rigorous, child-centered approach ensures every student meets the challenges of today—and tomorrow—with confidence.
We honor our students’ languages, cultures, and experiences, creating a welcoming community where self-esteem and new skills flourish. Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Lower East Side, PS 42M is a place where collaboration and excellence have thrived for generations.
Enrolled
Educators
Excellence
What We Offer
Our Programs
Rigorous academics and inclusive opportunities for every learner.
Literacy & Literature
We use rich literature and authentic learning experiences to develop literacy skills across all content areas, empowering students to become thoughtful, expressive readers and writers.
Explore LiteracyCulturally Responsive Learning
Our curriculum values and integrates students’ languages, cultures, and lived experiences, fostering self-esteem and a deeper connection to learning.
Learn MoreRigorous Academics
From social studies to STEM, we provide challenging, engaging opportunities that prepare students to meet the demands of today’s world—and tomorrow’s.
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Upcoming Events
School events, PTA meetings, and important dates — all in one place.
A live events calendar, right here.
Your Google Calendar syncs straight into the site — tours, PTA meetings, and key dates update automatically, no re-typing. We wire this up when you come aboard.
Invest in our
children's future.
Your donation funds arts programs, teaching assistants, and school trips. Every dollar makes a difference for our students.