Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about PS 96. This document is updated regularly with new information.
How can I contact PS 96 staff?
How can I update my contact information?
All families must complete a Blue Card at the start of every academic year to provide emergency contact information. Please see a staff member in our main office to request a new Blue Card.
Arrival/Dismissal
Grades 3K-5
Middle School (6-8)
Important: Due to transitions between classrooms, parents who arrive in the main lobby between 1:55pm-2:05pm will be directed to the school yard or middle school doors.
Attendance
If your student will be absent or late to school, it is your responsibility to contact the main office directly by 9:00am the morning of (the latest) by calling 212-860-5851.
You can also send an email to Ms. Jackie at jespinal18@schools.nyc.gov or to the Parent Coordinator, Ms. Arlette at Amartinezmedrano2@schools.nyc.gov.
What are the school hours?
This schedule applies to all students.
Where can I find my child's student ID (OSIS) and Account Creation Code?
To have access to all student information including report cards (K-12), attendance, and academic progress, sign up for a New York City Schools Account (NYCSA). The expectation is that all families have signed up for NYCSA. This account is critical in staying up to date with important announcements from the DOE.
You will need your child's account creation code to sign up. Please contact PS 96 staff if you do not have this information. If you need any assistance creating this account please contact Ms. Arlette the Parent Coordinator.
Where can I request a school letter?
Please call the main office at 212-860-5851 to request a school letter or sign up for the school letter request form in the school main lobby.Please allow 24 hours to process your request.
Does my child have to wear uniforms?
Yes. The expectation for all students is that they are dressed appropriately in full uniform.
Please contact Ms. Arlette at Amartinezmedrano2@schools.nyc.gov for more information.
Transportation (OPT)
Bus Eligibility
Students with IEP's may be eligible for a bus if it is stated on their most recent IEP. Consult with:
- School Psychologist Ms. Horel: khorel@schools.nyc.gov
- IEP Coordinator Ms. Danielson: sdanielson@schools.nyc.gov
Note: PS 96 is not a bussing school, so not all students are eligible. Students must be eligible for specialized transportation on their IEP or be in temporary housing (i.e. shelter) or other listed exceptions.
MetroCard Eligibility:
Students are eligible to receive a MetroCard twice a year (September and January) according to distance eligibility.
Important Deadline
Request to receive bus services for the next school year must be requested by June 1 to avoid interruption to services.
Will there be afterschool programs offered this year?
We offer FREE application-based afterschool programming for students in grades K-8
HARLEM YMCA
DYCD applications available in main office
Union Settlement
DYCD applications available in main office
School Pictures - Lifetouch, Inc.
For questions about school pictures, contact Lifetouch Customer Service:
1-866-955-8342School Food - Family Income Inquiry Form
We ask you to take a few moments to complete the FAMILY INCOME INQUIRY FORM to help us receive funding to ensure our students continue to receive free meals as a Title 1 school.
You will need:
- Zip code 10035
- Choose your district: New York City Public Schools
- The names and incomes of every member of your household
- The school, grade, birthdate of every student in your household (Optional)
- The last 4 digits of your social security number and electronic signature
- A valid email address or phone number for the Office of School Food to communicate about the status of the application (Optional)
⏱️ Time to complete: ~20 minutes
This form is required each year from every NYCDOE family.