Neighbors

At ECFS, we believe that being a good neighbor means more than simply being part of a community. It means actively contributing to its well-being. With campuses in Manhattan and Riverdale, our neighborhoods are an extension of our classrooms, providing opportunities for experiential learning, civic engagement, and community service. From studying the ecology and history of Central Park to exploring local businesses, caring for neighborhood trees, and participating in environmental stewardship projects, our students develop meaningful connections to the communities around them.

Our commitment to public purpose is reflected in the many partnerships and service initiatives undertaken across our four divisions. Students collaborate with local nonprofit organizations and community partners, supporting efforts ranging from food and clothing donations to environmental conservation and community advocacy. We also welcome the broader community onto our campuses through facility rentals, educational partnerships, and events, including our longstanding tradition of hosting Special Olympics competitions at Fieldston. These experiences reinforce our belief that education carries a responsibility to contribute positively to the world beyond our classrooms.

We value open communication and strong relationships with our neighbors. ECFS works closely with local residents, neighborhood associations, and community organizations to address shared interests, including campus activities, construction projects, traffic, and neighborhood conditions. We are committed to being a thoughtful, responsive, and engaged member of the communities we call home. For questions about our campuses, neighborhood initiatives, facility rentals, or opportunities to work with the School, please contact Teddy O’Rourke, Executive Director of Operations, at torourke@ecfs.org.

Please join our mailing list so we can keep you up to date about various projects that might affect you.

We welcome members of the ECFS community and external organizations to rent our facilities year-round for a wide variety of events and activities. With campuses in Manhattan and Riverdale, we offer a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate gatherings of all sizes. Our athletic fields and gymnasiums are ideal for sporting events, team and club practices, and recreational activities, while our classrooms, auditoriums, dining halls, and communal spaces provide versatile settings for conferences, meetings, dinners, and other special events.

Whether you're planning a community gathering, professional event, or athletic program, we look forward to helping you find the right space. To learn more about our facilities and rental opportunities, please review our rental brochure or contact rentals@ecfs.org with any questions or inquiries.

We reserve the right to rent our facilities to organizations and individuals whose programs align with our educational philosophy and mission.