Student Life at PS 163
The student experience at PS 163 The Alfred E Smith School includes a diverse range of curricula, extracurricular activities, and opportunities to learn and grow. We offer many options for our students to choose from, making them directly involved in designing their own educational path. Get in touch to learn more about what it’s like to attend PS 163 The Alfred E Smith School.
Below are listed some of the enrichment programs that are available for PS 163 students.
Enrichment Programs
E3Sports (Educate Exercise Evolve)
Recess during the school day is an essential part of supporting a physical education curriculum. E3Sports's holistic approach not only focuses students with a routine brief daily warm-up, but also provides organized “free play” model, which promotes structure in a way that contributes to the decrease of bullying and playground injuries. Additionally, their all-inclusive approach provides a safe space for even the most shy child to feel comfortable interacting in organized games. Their unique program design can be adapted for all grades in any setting. E3Sports also provides an active solution to those indoor recess days when the weather is less than cooperative or space is limited.
National Dance Institute
For more than a decade, National Dance Institute (NDI) has brought its intensive arts immersion programs to P.S. 163. In 3rd, 4th and 5th grades, students work with dynamic teachers, choreographers, and musicians in weekly sessions that culminate in energetic performances that most kids and parents agree are among the best parts of being at P.S. 163. NDI’s teaching artists create original pieces of choreography that are typically integrated into the curriculum. Dance styles range from American roots to the music and movement of Africa, Mexico, and China. Students who love dance and students who have never danced before both find inspiration and a deeper appreciation for dance. Students learn how important discipline, effort, focus, and teamwork are in achieving excellence in performance – and they have a terrific time doing it.
In-Class Chess
NYChessKids runs in-class as well as after-school chess instruction at PS 163. The Chess Program is designed to introduce every child at PS 163 to the game of chess, a game that improves a child’s ability to solve problems and helps improve concentration. Because chess is offered in every grade K-5, children build on the skills and strategies they have learned over the years.