Mission & Philosophy
About Our School
PS 198 is a zoned community school serving students in Pre-K through 5th grade. Joy is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to helping every child grow into a compassionate, confident, and responsible member of our community. We believe academic and personal excellence flourish when children are given opportunities to collaborate, create, reflect, and shine.
We honor each student as a unique individual with their own strengths, interests, and needs. In partnership with our families, we set high expectations and model the skills children need to build self-esteem, form healthy friendships, and achieve academic success.
In our early childhood classrooms, independence begins with small but mighty milestones—zipping backpacks, tying shoes, and finding their voices. As students grow, so do their opportunities. From starring in the school musical to serving on Student Council or supporting peers as Conflict Coaches, our Bulldogs discover their passions and leadership potential.
PS 198 is a joyful, connected community where children feel a deep sense of belonging. You might spot our beloved mascots, Izzie and Ida—named for our school’s namesake—cheering on a reading challenge, rallying school spirit at a Pep Rally, or posing for photos with student Bulldogs.
And if your child ever asks, “Who are Izzie and Ida?” just smile and say, “What do you mean? Izzie and Ida are Izzie and Ida.”
Programming
General Education
Our General Education program provides a strong and joyful foundation for learning in every classroom. Students engage in rigorous, standards-aligned instruction designed to challenge, inspire, and support a wide range of learners.
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Teachers differentiate instruction, foster collaboration, and nurture critical and creative thinking. With high expectations and a caring environment, students build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
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Integrated Co-Teaching (ICT)
Our Integrated Co-Teaching (ICT) program reflects our belief that inclusive classrooms strengthen our entire community. Offered in grades Pre-K through 5th, ICT classrooms are led by both a general education and a special education teacher who share responsibility for planning and instruction using the same curriculum as our General Education and G&T classes.
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Through collaboration, flexible grouping, and targeted support, students’ diverse learning needs are met within the classroom setting. High expectations, shared expertise, and joyful learning ensure that all students grow together—academically and socially.
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Gifted & Talented (G&T)
Our Gifted and Talented program begins in Kindergarten, with additional opportunities for enrollment in later grades through the NYCPS lottery process. Instruction is developmentally responsive and designed to meet the diverse needs found in any NYCPS classroom.
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Students engage in challenging, grade level standards-aligned learning that promotes deep thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. With high expectations and meaningful enrichment, our G&T students are encouraged to stretch their thinking and pursue their passions with joy.
