Sponsored Content | November 2, 2026
Located in New York City’s Flatiron District, The École is an independent French-American school offering a truly bilingual education for students from age two through 8th Grade.
Combining the rigor of the French curriculum with the creativity and inquiry-based approach of American education, The École develops students who are genuinely biliterate, academically accomplished, and confident navigating two languages and cultures. Students learn not only to speak, read, and write in French and English, but also to think critically, explore different perspectives, and express themselves confidently in both languages.
From Maternelle through Middle School, native-speaking teachers deliver a comprehensive bilingual curriculum encompassing language arts, mathematics, sciences, humanities, and the arts. Small classes allow for individualized attention, academic challenge, and a close relationship between students and teachers. Within a diverse international community, students develop the independence, curiosity, and sense of responsibility that prepare them for their next educational steps.
A Bilingual Education Beginning at Age Two
The École welcomes children from the age of two into its Pre-Nursery program, the first year of Maternelle. This early introduction to bilingual education allows children to develop familiarity with French and English naturally, through play, exploration, movement, music, art, and hands-on discovery.
Combining the structured foundations of French early childhood education with the play-based, inquiry-driven approach of American pedagogy, the program is carefully adapted to the developmental needs of two-year-olds. Children are encouraged to explore their surroundings, develop language and social skills, and build independence and confidence as they take their first steps into school life.
With a maximum of 12 children, the Pre-Nursery class offers a nurturing environment supported by two qualified teachers—one native French speaker and one native English speaker—and a dedicated classroom assistant. This foundation prepares children for a bilingual educational journey that can continue through Elementary and Middle School.
Preparing Students for High School and Beyond
The École’s Middle School combines strong academics with opportunities for individual exploration, enrichment, and leadership. Morning and afternoon electives integrated into the school day allow students to pursue their interests and develop personalized learning pathways, while roles such as House Captains, Student Ambassadors, and Student Council representatives encourage responsibility and initiative.
Graduates consistently demonstrate strong academic achievement and are accepted to leading independent, public, specialized, and international high schools in New York City and beyond. Personalized high-school placement guidance helps families identify the educational environment best suited to each student.
For students wishing to continue their French-American bilingual education, The École also offers an optional pathway through its partnership with Léman Manhattan Preparatory School, established in 2022. Students can pursue French-language coursework in 9th and 10th Grade before transitioning to a bilingual International Baccalaureate Diploma program in 11th and 12th Grade.
This partnership provides an additional opportunity for students to maintain and develop their bilingual skills while preparing for university, alongside the many other high-school options available to The École graduates.
To discover The École, attend an in-person Open House or contact
admissions@theecole.org.
Elementary & Middle School Building
115 East 22nd Street
New York, NY 10010
Maternelle Building
206 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010