Humanities • HUM IV
Beach Channel, Rockway, Queens
In Rockaway Park, Queens (100‑00 Beach Channel Dr), HUM IV offers a tuition‑free humanities charter high school education emphasizing critical thinking and college readiness.
In Rockaway Park, Queens (100‑00 Beach Channel Dr), HUM IV offers a tuition‑free humanities charter high school education emphasizing critical thinking and college readiness.
While state legislative leaders and Governor Hochul haven’t reached an agreement on a statewide school cellphone ban yet, some local public charter schools have begun implementing the policy.
OPEN Host Brittany Skyler sits down with the CEO of United Charter High Schools, Dr. Curtis Palmore, discussing the charter school’s success and how a bold decision to ban cell phones long before it became state policy is part of that story.
The backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has been swift and forceful. Across the country, school districts are banning books; reshaping curricula; and retreating from mentions of race, gender identity, and historical injustice.
At United Charter Prep, students become Creative Leaders—tackling real-world problems through a STEAM-focused, project-based curriculum. With creative pathways, internships, and a Senior Capstone, students graduate ready to lead with innovation, purpose, and passion.
At United Charter Prep / HUM IV, we believe students learn best when they’re engaged, empowered, and challenged to apply what they know in meaningful ways. Our approach blends a rigorous STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum with project-based learning (PBL) to ensure that students are not just prepared for tests—but for life.
STEAM-Driven Learning
Our curriculum integrates science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math to help students see connections across disciplines and tackle complex, real-world problems. Students develop both technical knowledge and creative confidence—the foundation for future innovators and leaders.
Project-Based Learning
In every grade, students engage in authentic, hands-on projects that require inquiry, collaboration, and critical thinking. These projects bring learning to life and encourage students to take ownership of their ideas, voices, and solutions.
Real-World Application
Learning doesn’t stay in the classroom. Through internships, college courses, and a culminating Senior Capstone Project, students apply their skills in real-world contexts—building resumes, portfolios, and a sense of purpose along the way.
Whole-Child, Brain-Aligned Instruction
Our teaching is grounded in the R.E.A.L. Framework:
• Regulate attention and emotion
• Engage curiosity and motivation
• Apply learning through challenge
• Loop back with reflection and growth
This approach ensures every student feels seen, supported, and ready to learn.
At United Charter Prep / HUM IV, advisory is called Ensemble. This daily class supports Artist-Scholars and adults as they practice self-awareness and interdependence. In Ensemble, Artist-Scholars activate their understanding of our Habits of the Graduate, make meaning of and set goals related to their Rights and Responsibilities, and discuss Humanist issues and dilemmas. Artist-Scholars complete portfolios that demonstrate their work and progress in our Habits of the Graduate (CREATE) and present for review at the end of the year.
Artist-Scholars can try out for all campus sports teams that are offered including but not limited to soccer, football, softball, volleyball, baseball, and tennis. Our after school activities are created in response to student interest and need. We are proud to host an astronomy club with high quality telescopes! At HUM IV, we believe that some of the most meaningful learning occurs outside of traditional classrooms. Advisories (aka Ensembles) plan field trips every marking period that focus on humanist issues and college and career exposure. By senior year, our students will be prepared for success in college, the creative industries, and other post-secondary endeavors. They will be able to earn an Advanced Regents Diploma with Designation in the Arts and/or a Seal of Civics; two very special honors we offer. They will also use their artistic experiences and learning to address a challenge or strengthen an asset in their community – we call this the “Senior Capstone Project; ” the final demonstration of what it means to be an “artist-scholar” at HUM IV.
We are currently accepting applications for the waitlist. If you missed the April 3rd lottery deadline, you can still submit an application! We accept students on a rolling basis and many students from the waiting list do enroll.
What’s next after I apply? You will receive an email or letter confirming that we’ve received your application. If a seat becomes available, you will be contacted to come in for registration. However, you can always call us to see where you are on the waitlist.
Best thing I’ve had. Teachers, staff and classmates were amazing people who taught me so many things that helped my life.
