Renaissance has been a leader in national education through its example, outreach and collaboration. It regularly collaborates, via school consortiums, federal grants and through nationwide conferences. As a leader in the charter movement, Renaissance commits to serving as a strong model of public school reform.

A wide array of innovative teaching methods makes Renaissance distinctive. As a PK-12 school, Renaissance has the unique ability to integrate subject matter from grade to grade and to take full responsibility for student learning. This allows expectations for student learning to remain high and consistent throughout the grades. The PK-12 structure also facilitates better articulation and coordination between grades.

A central curriculum theme of Renaissance is the study of New York. Teachers integrate this theme into all aspects of the curriculum. To the fullest extent possible and starting with the youngest grades, the history, culture, geography and economics of New York serve as the integrating focus of traditional academic subjects. Renaissance has a “three-tiered curriculum” consisting of core studies, project-based learning, and community involvement. Each tier is valued as a significant pathway for student learning.