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PATERSON CHARTER SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

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PCSST

ABOUT US

PCSST is a public charter school within the New Jersey public school system and is fully accredited by the New Jersey Department of Education. PCSST serves more than 1,700 students across four campuses: K–1 Campus, 2–3 Campus, 4–7 Campus, and 8–12 Campus.

Mission & Vision

The mission of the Paterson Charter School for Science and Technology is to provide a responsive educational model that will empower all students, through a standards – equity based academic program founded on expectations for high achievement that will graduate literate, responsible, self-directed persons who have the core knowledge and skills needed to be successful, contributing members of society.

Higher Education

Will encourage all students to not just graduate but desire to pursue higher education or occupations that will continually challenge their intellect.

Be Creative

Will work to transform all students into citizens who think independently, critically, creatively, and morally

Great Environment

Is a learning environment that sustains high academic achievement for all students through ongoing authentic assessments and open accountability to all stake holders.

Wide Network

Will be a learning community with and established, accessible connection between the quadrangle of stakeholders–students; parents; school; and community

Be Responsible

Will foster self-esteem and engender all students to view themselves as valuable and to take responsibility for their actions

High standards

Will be an enthusiastic, dynamic learning environment staffed with instructors committed to teaching to high standards and meeting the learning needs of students, both collectively and individually

The mission of the PCSST supports our vision

At PCSST, our mission supports our vision by nurturing students who are creative, responsible, and prepared for higher standards. We strive to help every learner grow academically and personally, while becoming contributing members of society.

Together with this vision, our core values guide us:

  • Integrity and Respect
  • Innovation and Creativity
  • Lifelong Learning
  • Collaboration and Teamwork
  • Commitment to Excellence
  • Community Engagement
Students
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Years of Experience

At PCSST, we are one big family — with more than 1,700 active students, 340 dedicated staff members, over 1,500 alumni, and more than 10,000 families and guardians connected to our community.

Campuses

Our organization consists of four campuses and a central office.

What is a Charter Shool?

Must meet state requirements for student testing, finances, civil rights, and health and safety.
01
Are publicly-funded, tuition-free public schools run by nonprofit organizations, that are open to all students regardless of zip code, race/ethnicity, income or ability level.
02
Hold parents, teachers, and students accountable for improving student achievement.
03
Must meet all state laws related to health, safety, civil rights, certification, academic standards and student assessment.
04
Are closing the achievement gap for hard-to-reach students, and charter students are more likely to receive a diploma and attend collage
05
Are governed by an independent nonprofit Board of Trustees comprised of members who receive no compensation for their service and may not have conflicts of interest.
06

Who can attend a charter school?

  • All grade-eligible students from its district of residence may attend on a space-available basis.
  • If applicants exceed available spaces, a charter school is required to use a random selection process.
  • Preference is given to children of the charter school’s district of residence.
  • If space permits, non-resident students may attend.
  • Students must first be registered in their districts.
  • Enrollment priority is given to siblings of students currently enrolled in a charter school.
  • A charter school cannot discriminate in admission policies on the basis of intellectual or athletic ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, status as a handicapped person, proficiency in the English language, or any other basis which is deemed illegal if used by district boards of education.
  • A charter school may target admission to particular grade levels or areas of concentration.
PCSST seniors standing in blue-and-gold graduation gowns during the 2026 graduation ceremony
PCSST staff members gathered outdoors for a group photo

Who may establish a charter school?

  • Teaching staff members.
  • Parents with children attending the district schools.
  • A combination of teaching staff members and parents.
  • Institution of higher learning in conjunction with teaching staff members and parents of children attending the district schools.
  • A private entity located within state in conjunction with teaching staff members and parents of children attending the district schools.

What is the educational program at a charter school?

  • Charter school students are required to meet the same academic performance standards as district school students.
  • The charter school curriculum must address the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards.
  • A charter school must make available the educational program as prescribed by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for a student with educational disabilities.
Fifth-grade students completing the NJSLA science assessment in the PCSST gymnasium
Two campus administrators smile together in the gym

Who is the staff of a charter school?

  • A lead person who may be called a principal, director, headmaster, or other similar title.
  • Classroom teachers and professional support staff holding appropriate New Jersey certification.
  • Other non-certified support staff as needed.