Curriculum & Academics
Literacy
We nurture confident readers and writers with a comprehensive literacy approach that builds strong foundational skills. An emphasis on phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, comprehension, and spelling give every child the tools they need to thrive.​
In alignment with NYCPS and District 2, we implement Wit & Wisdom as our core curriculum, with Heggerty and Wilson FUNdations supporting foundational skills in the early grades. Our teachers guide students to think deeply about what they read and to write with clarity, purpose, and strong evidence to support their ideas.
Our classrooms and libraries are filled with diverse, high-quality texts that reflect the rich cultural and linguistic backgrounds of our students while sparking curiosity and imagination. Through reading and writing, our Bulldogs discover their voices—and the joy of using them.
Art
At PS 198, art instruction focuses on a variety of art styles, artists, and media. Students deepen their imagination and expressive skills through daily instruction. The elements of art and principles of design drive discussion, sharpen observational skills, and create original works of art across all grades. Art instruction develops aesthetic appreciation, and supports the development of critical thinking skills.
Mathematics
Math learning is about curiosity, confidence, and problem-solving. We use Eureka Math² across all classrooms, engaging students in rich tasks that promote higher-order thinking and deep understanding.
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Students explore authentic, real-world contexts, use mathematical models, and learn to explain and defend their thinking—both verbally and in writing. We foster a strong growth mindset, celebrating effort, strategy, and perseverance as much as correct answers.
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To build fluency and excitement, students participate in school-wide fact fluency challenges and have opportunities to extend their learning through programs such as Math Kangaroo USA. At PS 198, our Bulldogs don’t just solve problems—they meet them head on.
Science
PS 198 uses the newest, state aligned science curriculum, Amplify. The Amplify Science program utilizes hands-on investigations in addition to scientific literacy activities to inspire students to think like scientists and engineers to solve real-world problems. In each Amplify unit, children work through authentic problems in order to find solutions that will foster a deeper understanding of the scientific concepts being taught.
Social Studies
Social Studies at PS 198 brings history to life while strengthening students’ literacy skills. Using the Passport to Social Studies curriculum, aligned to the New York K–8 Social Studies Framework, students explore rich content grounded in state standards.
Our Bulldogs research historical events, make meaningful connections to their own lives, and learn to think like historians—asking thoughtful questions and examining multiple perspectives. Through this work, students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the people and events that have shaped our world.
Physical Education
Our Physical Education program improves muscular strength, flexibility, body composition and cardiovascular endurance. Physical education develops skills which allow enjoyable and rewarding participation in physical activities. We teach children to follow rules, established procedures, and be responsible for their own health-related fitness. Through the use of games and exercise, our PE program instills a strong sense of self-worth in children, so that they can become more confident, assertive, and independent. We utilize our large gym as well as outdoor yard space for daily PE classes in Pre-K-5th grade.
Technology
The elementary technology program provides an important foundation in creating digitally literate students. Our goal is that when students leave PS 198, they can find, evaluate, and present information, and have the confidence to use technology efficiently, independently and safely. In lower grades, computer instruction aligns with the development of their fine motor skills. Children learn how to manipulate the mouse and locate critical keys on a keyboard. As children become more comfortable navigating computers, they develop their keyboarding skills in an effort to become fluent touch typists. They also receive GSuite accounts where they learn how to effectively manage and organize their cloud based portfolio of activities.
Music
Our music instruction empowers students with the tools to think critically about their own musical learning. The curriculum draws from Kodaly and Orff methodologies, using vocal folk repertoire from around the world, and focuses on cognitive and kinesthetic engagement in all activities. Students become fluent in the language of music through a strong focus on musical literacy in lower grades, showcased through vocal and classroom instrument performances. In upper grades, students practice the content they've learned as they develop skills in playing piano, recorder, and guitar.
Additional Academic Support
We closely monitor student growth to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive. Teachers identify students who may benefit from additional literacy or math support through careful observation, with needs confirmed by academic screener data.
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We provide research-based intervention programs grounded in explicit instruction and best practices. Thoughtful scheduling allows us to meet the needs of a wide range of learners, and ongoing progress monitoring helps teachers and support staff adjust instruction to ensure steady growth.
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Our goal is simple: every child makes meaningful progress, builds confidence, and experiences success.