Science

At PS 234, students are engaging in scientific practices on a daily basis. We use the FOSS (Full Option Science System) Curriculum, a hands-on program that turns every student into a curious investigator.

With FOSS, children explore real scientific ideas through activities like building models, observing nature, experimenting with materials, and asking lots of questions. Whether they’re studying plants and animals, weather, energy, or the solar system, students learn to think like scientists—making predictions, testing their ideas, and discovering how the world works.

The FOSS Program bridges research and practice by providing tools and strategies to engage students and teachers in enduring experiences that lead to deeper understanding of the natural and designed worlds. 

FOSS helps students build their understanding step-by-step, encourages teamwork, and makes science fun, engaging, and meaningful. We love watching our young scientists explore, wonder, and grow!

Art

Arts instruction is a rich and vibrant part of students' learning at Public School 234. Every student in the school participates in hands-on visual arts experiences. Our most significant partnership with cultural arts organizations in New York City is with the National Dance Institute, which works with our fifth graders weekly. Our visual arts teacher and classroom teachers work throughout the school year to create, well-crafted arts instruction and culminating performances for our students in collaboration with outside vendors. Public School 234 has a long and rich history of valuing the arts in children's learning. This is completely evident as you walk through our school. This year, PS234 was awarded additional City Council Arts Education funding to expand the arts at PS234. 

Visual Art

Our curriculum strives to develop technical skills, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. We encourage collaboration in the studio by developing group projects and through critique exchange. We explore, drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking units of study aligned with NYC Blueprint of the arts and NY State art standards. In addition to visual art making, each unit culminates in critique sessions that require students to consider multiple perspectives when viewing work while celebrating achievement. Informed feedback from peers often helps the student identify areas for growth and inspire creative development. 

Physical Education

At PS 234 Independence, our Physical Education program is designed to energize, empower, and inspire every young learner. We believe movement is more than exercise. It’s  a pathway to confidence, teamwork, creativity, and lifelong health. Through dynamic activities, skill-building sports units, and a supportive learning environment, students discover the joy of staying active while developing the social and physical skills that help them thrive both in and out of the classroom. 

At PS 234, students explore a wide range of movement experiences that meet them at their level and encourage steady growth. From fundamental motor skills to introductory sports like soccer, fitness circuits like “tabata”, and cooperative games like “two bounce” every lesson is designed to be active, engaging, and inclusive. Students learn how to move with purpose, play with respect, and challenge themselves in a safe and supportive setting.

Physical Education is also a space where character comes alive. Our program emphasizes sportsmanship, teamwork, and positive communication. Students learn how to celebrate effort, handle setbacks with maturity, and support their classmates. These lessons extend beyond the gym, helping them build confidence, emotional resilience, and leadership skills that strengthen our entire school community.

We strive to give every child the tools they need to lead an active, healthy lifestyle. By introducing age-appropriate fitness concepts—like warming up, and personal goal-setting—students begin to understand how their bodies work and why movement matters. Our goal is to ensure that when students leave PS 234, they leave with a foundation of healthy habits and a genuine love for staying active.