ABOUT US
FRIENDS’ architectural education programs have been teaching children to “read” a building since its inception in 1995. We have served several classrooms on the Upper East Side and East Harlem. We have taught in many 1st through 5th grade classes at public schools, including P.S 6, 59, 102, 158, 290, and at private schools such as Convent of the Sacred Heart and the Nightingale-Bamford School
PROGRAM ONE- EXPLORING ARCHITECTURE
In our first program, Exploring Architecture, students ask “what can a building can tell us about itself, its builder, its owner, its neighborhood and does it fit into New York City history?” Students explore these questions in depth by using their new architectural vocabulary, looking closely at their school neighborhood on an architectural walk, comparing current day streets with historical photographs, and designing their own building. The program can be a great addition to the study of New York City, the neighborhood/community, as well as the study of history or the visual arts.
PROGRAM TWO- YORKVILLE IMMIGRATION
Our second program, in its pilot year, explores the rich history of immigration on the Upper East Side. The program will focus on the German and Hungarian areas in Yorkville and how the built environment can provide clues to this rich heritage. The program discusses the history of immigration in New York City (with a focus on the Upper East Side) in the late 19th and early 20th century, what life was like in tenement buildings, and includes a walking tour of significant homes, tenement buildings, churches, and stores that reflect the historic presence of German and Hungarian immigrants. It is a great addition to the study of immigration in New York City. The program concludes with an art activity focused on immigration.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
A docent visits the classroom for three sessions and brings all necessary materials. The three visits are scheduled to be convenient for the school. It can be three consecutive Wednesdays, three days in a row, or any arrangement that is mutually agreed upon. Each program includes two classroom sessions and one walking tour. We would be happy to come in and meet with you about the program or work to make it applicable to your curriculum.
HOW TO REGISTER
If you would like us to visit your classroom, please print out our brochure and mail in the registration form, or call our office to provide this information. Fees for the 2008-2009 school year are $6 per student for the 3-part program. If cost is prohibitive, please contact us and we would be happy to discuss other arrangements.
Download our Young Friends Education Brochure and registration form. We will get back to you shortly and we look forward to working with you!
Feel free to contact our Education Director, Sarah O’Keefe, with any questions by phone at 212-535-2526 or by email at s.okeefe@friends-ues.org.
