Middle School Campus (Grades 5–8)

Academics (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies)

TEP’s middle school program supports well-rounded academic development by strengthening students’ core literacy, language, and math skills across all content areas. Students take daily classes in English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies to build a robust and integrated academic foundation. TEP leverages outstanding experts in their given field to provide rigorous instruction and prepare 8th graders for NYS Regents Exams in Living Environment, Algebra I, and U.S. History.

Artistic discipline and competency are developed through daily music instruction, including music theory and performance in a variety of ensembles, as well as opportunities in visual arts and dance. Physical development is equally prioritized, with students participating in daily Physical Education to build strength, coordination, and healthy habits. In addition, students can join over a dozen interscholastic sports teams, promoting teamwork, wellness, and lifelong enjoyment of physical activity while developing and showcasing their own athletic talents.

Arts and music

Music is a core part of the middle school experience at TEP, woven into the daily schedule as an essential component of a well-rounded education. Students participate in daily music instruction that builds technical skill, creativity, collaboration, and confidence, while also learning to work as part of an ensemble and perform for an audience. Through consistent practice and performance, students develop discipline, perseverance, and a deeper appreciation for the arts.

The program reflects TEP’s belief that the arts are fundamental to intellectual growth and student expression, not an optional add-on. Music instruction supports cognitive development, strengthens listening and analytical skills, and provides students with meaningful opportunities to express themselves creatively. By elevating the arts alongside academics, TEP ensures that students grow not only as scholars, but also as confident, expressive, and well-rounded individuals.

Athletics and wellness

Middle school students participate in daily physical education that promotes physical literacy, teamwork, and lifelong wellness as an essential part of their overall development. Through structured athletics and intentionally designed physical activities, students build strength, coordination, and endurance while learning the importance of goal setting and healthy routines. These experiences also help students develop perseverance, leadership, and sportsmanship as they work collaboratively, challenge themselves, and grow in confidence both on and off the field.

The campus experience

TEP’s Middle School Campus is intentionally designed around the 3A’s—Academics, Arts, and Athletics—with dedicated spaces that support each of these core pillars of the school’s model. Our state-of-the-art building features a full music floor that includes specialized classrooms, a performance venue, and a professional recording studio, giving students daily access to high-quality artistic spaces for instruction, rehearsal, and performance. In addition, the campus includes a regulation-sized gym that is used for Physical Education classes, interscholastic sports, school assemblies, and community events, reinforcing the importance of physical activity and school culture.

These purpose-built facilities allow students to move seamlessly between academic classrooms, artistic environments, and athletic spaces throughout the day. By learning in settings specifically designed for its purpose, students experience a well-rounded education that supports intellectual growth, creative expression, and physical development. This integrated design reflects TEP’s commitment to providing an immersive, high-quality learning environment where the 3A’s are not separate programs, but fully embedded in students’ everyday school experience.

Outcomes and next steps

TEP’s middle school program prepares students for success in high school and beyond through a combination of rigorous academic preparation, personal development, and individualized guidance. Throughout middle school, students build the skills, habits, and confidence needed to succeed in more demanding academic environments. In 8th grade, families work closely with TEP’s High School Placement Director to identify strong-fit high school options and receive individualized support to navigate the application process. TEP ensures that each student is well positioned for a successful transition to the next stage of their educational journey. TEP prides itself on the quality of our high school placements, including those at NYC Specialized High Schools, private schools (day and boarding), and a variety of highly selective screened schools, including many performance-based options.

How to apply to the Middle School Campus

TEP is a free New York City public charter school open to all eligible students. TEP welcomes all students to our inclusive setting, including Multi-Lingual Learners and students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). 

Families apply through TEP’s online enrollment application, which is always accessible to all interested families. Families may also apply in-person at any of our TEP locations. The application process is designed to be straightforward and equitable, ensuring that every family has an opportunity to apply. 

TEP continues to accept student applications on a rolling basis for all grades. If/when the number of applicants exceeds the number of available seats, admission is determined through a fair and transparent waitlist process.  

To learn more about TEP’s enrollment process, visit Apply to Enroll | The Equity Project Charter School (TEP)