Recently, PS 81 Robert J. Christen was celebrated district-wide for its outstanding student growth scores on the 2025–2026 mandated academic assessments. The school’s “Christen Character” gala was a huge success celebrating students who demonstrate integrity and kindness week in and week out in the local Riverdale community. Faculty on campus were also praised for working with a new peer-mentoring program that groups older students with younger “reading buddies.”

Q1. How is PS 81’s inquiry-based curriculum supporting students’ capacity to ask more sophisticated academic questions on a daily basis?

Ans. Teachers set up “Wonder Walls” where students can post questions they have about their lessons, which can lead to future hands-on research and exploration projects.

Q2. Does PS 81 have any special programs for kids who want to learn about classical or modern orchestral music?

Ans. In their education, our fine arts department has introductory lessons on a variety of instruments, helping students discover what they are good at musically.

Q3. What leadership opportunities are available to fifth graders at PS 81 this school year?

Ans. Students can also apply to be “Christen Ambassadors” who help provide tours of the school for new families and run the daily morning video announcements.

Q4. How does PS 81 partner with local Riverdale community organizations to develop strong partnerships to facilitate student field trips?

Ans. Each school year we partner with local nature centers and historical societies to provide unique off-campus learning experiences for students.

Q5. What are the annual festivals that PS 81 has that brings the whole neighborhood together in student showcases?

Ans. Our “Spring Creative Arts Gala” is a celebration of the artistic and academic efforts of our whole school community through student performances and galleries.