Family Corner
School Policies
The 2025–2026 student handbook. Policies and procedures that keep our community safe, focused, and thriving.
Handbook
Parents and students, please take a moment to read over our PS 59 Handbook and Policies for this academic school year. Our Handbook includes school policies and procedures, locations, and other helpful details. All students and their parents/guardians should review the student handbook carefully as its contents are binding on all students of the school.
Academic Expectations
High expectations. Every student.
At PS 59, we have high expectations for all students and believe that everyone is a leader. Students are expected to put in their best effort each day. Each school year, students set specific academic goals in literacy and mathematics that are monitored throughout the year.
Attendance
Every day counts.
Attendance is essential to success in school. All children are expected to be in school starting at 8:00 AM every school day. Every absence counts — excused absences are still absences. Families can check attendance on report cards, request school records, or view attendance on their My Schools account.
Homework
Homework Policy.
Homework is an extension of the learning that takes place in school. Parents can help by providing a quiet, comfortable place for children to work and by seeing that assignments are completed.
| Grade | Reading | Written |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten | 10–15 min | 15 min |
| 1st Grade | 15–20 min | 15–20 min |
| 2nd Grade | 20–25 min | 15–20 min |
| 3rd Grade | 30–40 min | 15–20 min |
| 4th Grade | 30–40 min | 35 min |
| 5th Grade | 30–40 min | 35 min |
Arrival & Dismissal
Start and end of the day.
Arrival
All K-5 students line up outside and are admitted at 8:00 AM through the main entrance. Breakfast is served as students enter the building.
Dismissal
- Pre-K: Annex front main entrance
- Grades K-2: North Yard Exit
- Grades 3-5: North Yard Exit
- Dismissal is at 2:15 PM
No Early Sign Out Policy
No child will be dismissed between 1:50 PM and 2:15 PM dismissal except in cases of emergency. Any changes in dismissal must be sent in writing to the teacher. Anyone picking up a child must have photo ID and be listed on the Blue Card.
Dress Code
The PS 59 Uniform.
The PS 59 school uniform is a dark blue dress, skirt, or pants paired with a light blue button down or polo top. On gym days, students may wear loose, comfortable clothing with sneakers. No spaghetti straps, tank tops, or short shorts.
Uniforms can be purchased at Kid City and Cookie's Department Stores.
Testing
2025–2026 Tests.
Students in elementary grades take various NY State and local tests to support their instruction. Third, fourth, and fifth grade students are expected to take NY State Math/ELA exams.
| Test | Grades | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| ELA | 3, 4, 5 | TBA |
| Math | 3, 4, 5 | TBA |
| NYSESLAT (Speaking) | ELL — All grades | TBA |
| NYSESLAT (L/R/W) | ELL — All grades | TBA |
| Science Performance | 4 | TBA |
| Science Written | 4 | TBA |
Distraction-Free Schools
Phones down. Focus up.
Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, in accordance with New York State law, students are not permitted to use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day. This includes cell phones, laptops, tablets, and portable entertainment systems.
View full policyDiscipline & Respect
Ladder of Discipline.
First infraction: The teacher speaks to the student.
Second infraction: Teacher contacts the Dean and interventions are implemented.
Third infraction: Dean contacts the parent, or a written report to Assistant Principal(s).
Dean of Students:Ms. Walsh — (718) 584-4730
Respect for All.
It is the policy of the NYC DOE to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment free from harassment, intimidation, and bullying. Discrimination, harassment, and bullying is prohibited in school and during school-related activities.
Respect for All Liaison: Ms. Lugo — llugo3@schools.nyc.gov — 718-584-4730 ext. 0
Afterschool
CHCF Afterschool.
The Committee for Hispanic Children and Families (CHCF) expands the school day by three hours. The program fosters academic success while encouraging active participation through STEM, sports, music, and social-emotional learning.
Monday–Thursday:2:20 PM – 5:20 PM
Friday:2:20 PM – 5:00 PM
Contact Ms. Patino: mpatino@chcfinc.org