New City School was founded in 1969 to help stabilize the then-struggling neighborhoods of the City’s Central West End. A group of neighbors,many of whom had small children, began meeting to discuss the possibility of opening a school - but not just any school – a unique school that would provide opportunities for a diverse group of children (and adults!) to learn together, to be creative, and to develop a sense of independence and confidence.

Our founders went door-to-door, asking homeowners to contribute 5% of their property value to help launch this new venture; many responded. In the fall of 1969 about 100 children, ranging in age from three to nine years old, and their five teachers began the school year in the basement of the Unitarian Church at the corner of Waterman and Kingshighway.

The "Friendly Castle"

In 1971, the School’s founders purchased our “friendly castle” at the corner of Waterman and Lake Avenues. The building, built to house Mary Institute in 1901 and later serving as Lutheran High School, had been sitting vacant for years. Again, New City School served as an important anchor in the Central West End with the purchase and incremental renovation of this landmark building.

True to the Founders' Vision

In the many years since its founding, New City School has remained true to the vision of its founders. The School continues to be a place of bold vision and unlimited possibilities – a place that considers the needs of children first, a place that is built on a commitment to diversity, and a place that brings children, parents and teachers together in a community of joyful learning. Everyone learns at New City School!