Niagara Charter School celebrates 20 years of excellence with charter renewal & national recognition

Niagara Charter School press release

Niagara Charter School proudly announces a series of major milestones that underscore its enduring commitment to academic excellence, character development, and whole-child education. At the April 14 New York State Board of Regents meeting, NCS was approved for a five-year charter renewal, affirming its strong performance and continued impact on students and families. This renewal coincides with the school’s designation as a “Leader in Me Lighthouse School” – a prestigious national recognition – and the celebration of its 20th anniversary serving the Niagara community.

The five-year renewal by the state Board of Regents reflects Niagara Charter School’s consistent delivery of high-quality educational outcomes and organizational stability. As outlined in the school’s charter renewal, Niagara Charter has demonstrated sustained academic growth, with measurable gains in student achievement, particularly among historically underserved populations. The school’s instructional model emphasizes rigorous, standards-based teaching paired with targeted interventions and data-driven decision-making to ensure all students succeed.

Equally important is the school’s deeply rooted culture of character and leadership. As a newly designated “Leader in Me Lighthouse School,” Niagara Charter joins an elite group of schools nationwide recognized for exemplary implementation of leadership principles that empower students to take ownership of their learning and behavior. This designation highlights the school’s success in fostering student agency, goal-setting, and a positive, inclusive school climate.

“Our renewal and ‘Lighthouse’ designation are not just honors – they are validations of the work our students, staff and families do every day,” said Dr. Darci Novak, chief academic officer. “For 20 years, Niagara Charter School has been committed to developing not only strong scholars, but strong leaders and citizens.”

The school’s culture is anchored in restorative practices and positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), creating a safe, respectful and supportive learning environment. Students are explicitly taught leadership habits, social-emotional skills, and responsibility, resulting in strong student engagement and a sense of belonging across the school community.

Image provided by Niagara Charter School.

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Over the past two decades, Niagara Charter School has built a reputation for:

•Strong academic outcomes: Consistent growth in core subject areas, with targeted support ensuring equity and access for all learners.

•Leadership development: Integration of the “Leader in Me” framework, empowering students with lifelong leadership and life skills.

•Positive school culture: Implementation of restorative practices and PBIS to foster accountability, respect and community.

•Family and community engagement: Active partnerships that support student success beyond the classroom.

As Niagara Charter School celebrates its 20-year legacy, it remains focused on the future – continuing to innovate, refine its instructional practices, and expand opportunities for every student to thrive.

“For two decades, Niagara Charter School has strived to develop each student’s character through engaging and challenging academic work,” Novak said. “We believe that true academic success is built on strong character – collaboration, perseverance, responsibility and compassion – and this renewal allows us to continue advancing that mission with purpose for years to come.”

For more information about Niagara Charter School, visit www.niagaracharterschool.org or contact ncsinfo@niagaracharter.org.

Niagara Charter School is a free public charter school serving students in grade K-6 in Niagara Falls. Since its founding, the school has been dedicated to academic excellence, leadership development, and character education, providing a high-quality, student-centered learning environment for all.