HALLOWEEN SHOW PHOTOGRAPHY BY ONE OF OUR SENIORS!🧡🧡
These spectacular photographs were taken by Yannis Sanchez-Garcia, HSFI 12th grade Photography major.
In still images, she captures the magic, the movement and the moments of the show that had the audience roaring for two solid hours.
Thank you to Erin Lefevre, Yannis' photography teacher, for coordinating photography for this event!
#hsfi
#nycschools
#photography
#nychalloween
PRE HALLOWEEN SHOW LOOKS!
HSFI always shows up in style -- whether in full-on Cosplay, or with simple touches of makeup and props.
AP of Climate and Culture , Marcol Rodriguez , setting the stage before the curtain opens.
HSFI always shows up in style -- whether in full-on Cosplay, or with simple touches of makeup and props.
AP of Climate and Culture , Marcol Rodriguez , setting the stage before the curtain opens.
KINETIC HALLOWEEN HALLWAYS UNVEILED ON 2ND FLOOR!! 🎃🧡
If you're into Tim Burton movies, this window display is for you -- it's full of odd characters, unique gestures, mood lighting, and imagination above all.
Stop by the teachers elevators and see the spooky, the surprising, the robotics, thhe hand painted figures and original sculptures.
This display is one of many brilliant installations by the Sculpture Club.
Stuart Rosenthal is the Founder and Advisor of this club, and has been at HSFI as Laboratory Specialist for six years.
HALLOWEEN TREAT!!🎃🧡
THE 10TH GRADE WELLNESS TEAM (CLASS OF 2029) HAS GENEROUSLY PURCHASED 30 HALLOWEEN SHOW TICKETS FOR DONATION TO HSFI STUDENTS IN NEED
Students are invited to stop by room 504 and request a ticket during their lunch period.
The door is open, and it can't be missed.
We want to ensure all interested students have the opportunity to attend, regardless of financial need." Mr. Tafari Powis, Guidance Counselor
#hsfi
#nycschools
#halloween
#halloweentreat
HALLOWEEN SHOW TODAY 4PM-6PM! GET YOUR TICKETS!
We are one day away from our spooktacular Halloween Show— a wickedly good fundraiser for the Class of 2029!
Students across a variety of clubs have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring you an afternoon filled with glam and fright. 🦇✨
Don't miss out on the fun!
Check out the important details below:
• 📅 Date: Friday, October 30, 2026
• ⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Doors open at 3:30 PM)
• 📍 Location: HSFI Auditorium (225 24th Street, NY, NY, 10011)
• 💵 Cost: $3.00
• 👥 Who is Invited?
Our entire community is welcome to come out and cheer on the outpouring talent of our community!
• 🪄 What to Expect:
Prepare to be spellbound by a youth-led showcase featuring a hauntingly good opening act by the Band Club, stunning costume displays by the modeling club, and jaw-dropping performances by our stellar dance teams (2! 3! Dance Crew, Desi Dance, Iconoclan, Latin Groove Dance Team, LUMEI, and So FLY Step Team) 🕷️💫
🎟️ Grab Your Tickets:
PHYSICAL TICKETS
• At the FLY Store: Get physical tickets in front of the FLY Store (1st floor near student elevators) from 7:50 AM – 8:40 AM.
• In the Student Lounge: Get physical tickets in the Student Lounge during your designated lunch period.
• Online: Buy your digital ticket via the link below!
••• Note: Online tickets include a $0.90 processing fee for a total of $3.90. Keep your confirmation email handy to show at the door—no hocus pocus, you really need it!
• ONLINE TICKETS LINK: hsfi.ludus.com/200554552
Students across a variety of clubs have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring you an afternoon filled with glam and fright. 🦇✨
Don't miss out on the fun!
Check out the important details below:
• 📅 Date: Friday, October 30, 2026
• ⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Doors open at 3:30 PM)
• 📍 Location: HSFI Auditorium (225 24th Street, NY, NY, 10011)
• 💵 Cost: $3.00
• 👥 Who is Invited?
Our entire community is welcome to come out and cheer on the outpouring talent of our community!
• 🪄 What to Expect:
Prepare to be spellbound by a youth-led showcase featuring a hauntingly good opening act by the Band Club, stunning costume displays by the modeling club, and jaw-dropping performances by our stellar dance teams (2! 3! Dance Crew, Desi Dance, Iconoclan, Latin Groove Dance Team, LUMEI, and So FLY Step Team) 🕷️💫
🎟️ Grab Your Tickets:
PHYSICAL TICKETS
• At the FLY Store: Get physical tickets in front of the FLY Store (1st floor near student elevators) from 7:50 AM – 8:40 AM.
• In the Student Lounge: Get physical tickets in the Student Lounge during your designated lunch period.
• Online: Buy your digital ticket via the link below!
••• Note: Online tickets include a $0.90 processing fee for a total of $3.90. Keep your confirmation email handy to show at the door—no hocus pocus, you really need it!
• ONLINE TICKETS LINK: hsfi.ludus.com/200554552
YOUR ATTENDANCE IS POPPIN!
The Wellness Team for the Class of 2030 is proud to announce their 9th graders achieved 100% attendance in the first marking period!
This is an extraordinary accomplishment, as there are over 400 students in the grade, and more than 35 days of school in the period.
The grade celebrated with a popcorn party 🍿Thank you @livelovepop for your donation!
In addition to being a wonderful sign that all are in good health, it also demonstrates the maturity and discipline of HSFI's youngest.
Guidance Counselor Jessica Goldberg said, "We are so proud of our students starting their high school journey strong and showing up every day. Their commitment to being present each day helps them stay on track, build positive habits, and make the most of the high school experience."
#hsfi
#nycschools
#attendance
@livelovepop
The Wellness Team for the Class of 2030 is proud to announce their 9th graders achieved 100% attendance in the first marking period!
This is an extraordinary accomplishment, as there are over 400 students in the grade, and more than 35 days of school in the period.
The grade celebrated with a popcorn party 🍿Thank you @livelovepop for your donation!
In addition to being a wonderful sign that all are in good health, it also demonstrates the maturity and discipline of HSFI's youngest.
Guidance Counselor Jessica Goldberg said, "We are so proud of our students starting their high school journey strong and showing up every day. Their commitment to being present each day helps them stay on track, build positive habits, and make the most of the high school experience."
#hsfi
#nycschools
#attendance
@livelovepop
GRAPHIC NOVELS AND THE STUDY OF BUDDHISM
The Graphic Novel, Enlightened, is being used in Ms. Michelle Duck and Ms. Alexa Anzalone's 9th Grade ICT Global History classes to learn about Buddhism.
Ms. Duck explains, "Graphic Novels are a powerful tool for engaging teenagers, particularly in a 9th grade ICT Global History classroom where students bring diverse learning strengths and needs. This combination of visual storytelling and historical inquiry makes complex ideas more accessible without sacrificing academic rigor."
The classes are using Enlightened, in particular, so students can connect with Siddhartha Gautama's journey while analyzing visual evidence, drawing inferences, and developing a deeper understanding of Buddhism.
#hsfi
#nyschools
#graphicnovels
#buddhism
The Graphic Novel, Enlightened, is being used in Ms. Michelle Duck and Ms. Alexa Anzalone's 9th Grade ICT Global History classes to learn about Buddhism.
Ms. Duck explains, "Graphic Novels are a powerful tool for engaging teenagers, particularly in a 9th grade ICT Global History classroom where students bring diverse learning strengths and needs. This combination of visual storytelling and historical inquiry makes complex ideas more accessible without sacrificing academic rigor."
The classes are using Enlightened, in particular, so students can connect with Siddhartha Gautama's journey while analyzing visual evidence, drawing inferences, and developing a deeper understanding of Buddhism.
#hsfi
#nyschools
#graphicnovels
#buddhism
KINETIC HALLOWEEN WINDOW DISPLAYS JUST UNVEILED BY THE RECYCLED INDUSTRIOUS SCULPTURE CLUB!
Members of the R.IS.C. made this entire display along with several others from 100% reclaimed materials from both the school and the City.
The installation is on the second floor in front of Room 234 -- stop by and experience the magic... and see @fashionhighnyc for the IG reel!
Stuart Rosenthal is the Founder and Advisor for this club, and has been a Laboratory Specialist at HSFI for the past six years.
Members of the R.IS.C. made this entire display along with several others from 100% reclaimed materials from both the school and the City.
The installation is on the second floor in front of Room 234 -- stop by and experience the magic... and see @fashionhighnyc for the IG reel!
Stuart Rosenthal is the Founder and Advisor for this club, and has been a Laboratory Specialist at HSFI for the past six years.
FAMILY HANDBOOKS ARE HERE!
HSFI families received a special package today that's filled with important resources and updates for the school year.
Included with the Family Handbook are the School Calendar, Staff Email Directory, Back-to-School Family Day Notice, their child's latest report card, and a letter from Principal Daryl Blank.
These packages were distributed to each student at the end of the school day to bring home to their families.
Giovanni Raschilla, Assistant Principal of Safety and Security, led this initiative. "We are proud of our partnership with HSFI families, and remain committed to keeping our community engaged, informed, and connected as we work together to support student success."
#hsfi
#nycschools
#nycfamilies
HSFI families received a special package today that's filled with important resources and updates for the school year.
Included with the Family Handbook are the School Calendar, Staff Email Directory, Back-to-School Family Day Notice, their child's latest report card, and a letter from Principal Daryl Blank.
These packages were distributed to each student at the end of the school day to bring home to their families.
Giovanni Raschilla, Assistant Principal of Safety and Security, led this initiative. "We are proud of our partnership with HSFI families, and remain committed to keeping our community engaged, informed, and connected as we work together to support student success."
#hsfi
#nycschools
#nycfamilies
KNITTING CLUB VISIT!
"IT'S A GOOD TIME TO THINK ABOUT LIFE." -- One of the many mindful, artistic and sentimental reasons for joining the Knitting Club! Two students shared stories of how they were inspired to start knitting because of their grandmothers. Another joined the club to "master all of the arts."
More than 20 students are participating this semester -- some have never knit before , and others are experienced enough to start making their own sweaters by following digital patterns. It was wonderful to see the more advanced knitters helping their classmates!
Advisor Jennifer Gold is a Social Worker on the 11th grade Wellness team. This is her fourth year at HSFI and her second year leading the Knitting Club.
"IT'S A GOOD TIME TO THINK ABOUT LIFE." -- One of the many mindful, artistic and sentimental reasons for joining the Knitting Club! Two students shared stories of how they were inspired to start knitting because of their grandmothers. Another joined the club to "master all of the arts."
More than 20 students are participating this semester -- some have never knit before , and others are experienced enough to start making their own sweaters by following digital patterns. It was wonderful to see the more advanced knitters helping their classmates!
Advisor Jennifer Gold is a Social Worker on the 11th grade Wellness team. This is her fourth year at HSFI and her second year leading the Knitting Club.
HALLOWEEN MAKEUP CONTEST!! 💀🎃👻
WE'RE 5 DAYS OUT! The Special Effects Makeup Club wants to get you in the spirit.
Club members have created 6 different makeup looks. Which one is your favorite?
Go to HSFI's Instagram @fashionhighnyc and cast your vote!
WE'RE 5 DAYS OUT! The Special Effects Makeup Club wants to get you in the spirit.
Club members have created 6 different makeup looks. Which one is your favorite?
Go to HSFI's Instagram @fashionhighnyc and cast your vote!
🏛️ Class Highlight: Ancient Civilizations Meet Fashion at Ms.Severino's 9th Grade Class !
Our students recently stepped into the roles of historians and fashion designers for an exciting cross-curricular project! Inspired by four ancient river valley civilizations, students created their own unique fall fashion lines.
After researching historical artifacts and natural resources from their assigned regions, students:
Designed Mood Boards: Capturing the colors, textures, and aesthetic of their civilization.
Wrote Line Statements: Crafting a clear vision and rationale for their contemporary collection.
Sketched Four Original Garments: Designing pieces inspired by key historical eras—the Forager, Cultivator, Domestication, and Neolithic periods.
Through hands-on research and design, students deepened their understanding of how early humans adapted to their environments and laid the foundation for modern civilization. To wrap up the unit, students also attended a special field trip to connect their classroom learning with real-world artifacts!
THE SWIM TEAM IS A WINNING TEAM
The Fashion Sirens defeated Clinton High School 36-17 on Monday -- one more official meet this afternoon!
What made this victory extra special was how hard the team members challenged themselves, achieving new personal milestones along the way.
Zoey Vasquez and Melanie (pronounced Mee-han-gos) Mijangos reached new levels of performance in the 100 yard butterfly, improving their times from last practice.
Jenny (pronounced Wong) Wang took on the 200 IM -- meaning, she swam all four strokes -- butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke and freestyle -- by herself!
Senior Ruby Ariza gave it her all in the 200-yard freestyle and the 100-yard freestyle races, and sophomore Alaina Brown bested her own times in the backstroke events.
Swim Coach Christina Sandoval is an HSFI Alum (Class of 2006) and has been teaching English at HSFI for the past five years.
She is a lifelong swimmer and joined the HSFI Swim team in her Junior year when Ms. Page coached it.
#hsfi
#nycschools
#swimteam
ACCESSORIES DESIGN: AN HSFI SUPERPOWER!
Brenda Rojas' 11th grade Accessories Design class visit to the Fashion Institute of Technology last week wound up being an HSFI Alumni reunion.
Sarah Mullins, Associate Professor and Assistant Chair of the Footwear and Accessories Design Department, hosted a visit that was over the top.
She first guided the students around campus, and then arranged visits to three different accessories classes, so HSFI students could observe them in action.
While they were there, Ms. Rojas was thrilled to suddenly see many familiar faces -- her former HSFI Accessories Design students -- who have graduated and gone on to pursue the field at FIT.
"They put us right in the studios, and the fact our students we were able to get right into those classrooms and that HSFI Alumni were there, it became full circle. Seeing our HSFI Alum thriving in FIT's Accessories program ignited our current class. It made their future in design feel so real, so achievable, and so inspiring," Ms. Rojas said.
During the class visits, the students learned about recent competitions for shoemaking, and that many of the winners were HSFI Alum. Winners were taken to Portugal for 12 weeks, and were awarded thousands of dollars.
Ms. Rojas was overwhelmed with emotion. "Our kids! I was completely floored and so proud to learn that some of our very own HSFI Alumni were among the winners, one of whom is Yosely Felix."
HSFI looks forward to welcoming Ms. Mullins to HSFI in November, when she will be a special guest working in Ms. Rojas' class.
Brenda Rojas-Hampton is an HSFI Alum, Class of 1992, Fashion Show Coordinator and teaches the Honors Fashion Design class. She will celebrate teaching 10 years at HSFI this December.
#hsfi
#nycschools
#accessoriesdesign
#shoedesign
@fitnyc
Brenda Rojas' 11th grade Accessories Design class visit to the Fashion Institute of Technology last week wound up being an HSFI Alumni reunion.
Sarah Mullins, Associate Professor and Assistant Chair of the Footwear and Accessories Design Department, hosted a visit that was over the top.
She first guided the students around campus, and then arranged visits to three different accessories classes, so HSFI students could observe them in action.
While they were there, Ms. Rojas was thrilled to suddenly see many familiar faces -- her former HSFI Accessories Design students -- who have graduated and gone on to pursue the field at FIT.
"They put us right in the studios, and the fact our students we were able to get right into those classrooms and that HSFI Alumni were there, it became full circle. Seeing our HSFI Alum thriving in FIT's Accessories program ignited our current class. It made their future in design feel so real, so achievable, and so inspiring," Ms. Rojas said.
During the class visits, the students learned about recent competitions for shoemaking, and that many of the winners were HSFI Alum. Winners were taken to Portugal for 12 weeks, and were awarded thousands of dollars.
Ms. Rojas was overwhelmed with emotion. "Our kids! I was completely floored and so proud to learn that some of our very own HSFI Alumni were among the winners, one of whom is Yosely Felix."
HSFI looks forward to welcoming Ms. Mullins to HSFI in November, when she will be a special guest working in Ms. Rojas' class.
Brenda Rojas-Hampton is an HSFI Alum, Class of 1992, Fashion Show Coordinator and teaches the Honors Fashion Design class. She will celebrate teaching 10 years at HSFI this December.
#hsfi
#nycschools
#accessoriesdesign
#shoedesign
@fitnyc
KEITH HARING: A WORLD OF INSPIRATION FOR 10th GRADE FASHION DESIGN STUDENTS
Keith Haring (May 4, 1958 – February 16, 1990) was an American artist who is celebrated throughout the world for his short but vibrant career that spanned the 1980s.
Defined by movement, Keith Haring's work is most notable for its bold graphic imagery and rhythmic figures, and is recognized as a powerful visual language that transcends time, cultures, and generations.
For the past four weeks, students in Ms. David's and Ms. Cisse's fashion design classes studied Keith Haring's art. The culminating project was for each student to choose their favorite piece, and then interpret it onto a t-shirt in a multi-media, hand-made original design, using fabric paint, scrap fabric, ribbons, zippers, embroidery and hand stitching. While some students chose the same piece of art as their favorite, their t-shirts were unique.
On Wednesday, the students visited the 60 White Gallery in Tribeca to see Keith Haring: A World in Motion, while wearing their own designs.
The exhibition spans multiple floors that the students explored while simultaneously modeling their t-shirts, featuring Haring's artwork as a backdrop.
Ms. David added an important note about Keith Haring's legacy that goes beyond his artistic talent.
"Haring was not only an artist, he was a social justice advocate who used his art as a platform to support victims of HIV AIDS discrimination. This study teaches students that they can use their power as artists to raise awareness about important societal issues."
Belinda David is an HSFI Alum, Class of 1993, and is teaching fashion design at HSFI for 27 years.
Ionia Dunn Lee Cisse has been teaching fashion design at HSFI for the past 16 years, and is a former fashion editor for Essence magazine.
Keith Haring: A World in Motion is on view through November 25, 2026.
Thank you to HSFI parent, Ms. Foster, and Mr. Ovalles, 10th grade Wellness counselor, for graciously chaperone the trip.
#hsfi
#nycschools
www.sixtywhite.com/
@sixtywhite
@keithharing_
@keithharingfoundation
RISING TO THE MOMENT
On Wednesday, October 7, HSFI celebrated its third year of what has become a new ritual: SENIOR SUNRISE.
Over 50 seniors and staff arrived at school at 6:30am to watch the morning sun rise over the City, and take in the sweeping skyline views together from the 10th floor.
Watching the sun rise is known for its powerful biological, mental, and emotional benefits, but this particular event held a figurative meaning to it.
Lativa Reyes, Assistant Principal of the Wellness department, said, "Watching the sun rise symbolizes a new dawn -- the beginning of our seniors' final year of high school and their upcoming transition into adulthood. It's a unique experience that gives them the chance to gather outside the classroom, bond, and strengthen community spirit."
#hsfi
#nycschools
#nycsunrise
On Wednesday, October 7, HSFI celebrated its third year of what has become a new ritual: SENIOR SUNRISE.
Over 50 seniors and staff arrived at school at 6:30am to watch the morning sun rise over the City, and take in the sweeping skyline views together from the 10th floor.
Watching the sun rise is known for its powerful biological, mental, and emotional benefits, but this particular event held a figurative meaning to it.
Lativa Reyes, Assistant Principal of the Wellness department, said, "Watching the sun rise symbolizes a new dawn -- the beginning of our seniors' final year of high school and their upcoming transition into adulthood. It's a unique experience that gives them the chance to gather outside the classroom, bond, and strengthen community spirit."
#hsfi
#nycschools
#nycsunrise
BRINGING ANCIENT ART TO LIFE AT THE CHINA INSTITUTE 🇨🇳
As part of Christina Gerasimovich's unit on Ancient China, her 9th grade Global History students left the classroom and went on a journey to discover first-hand one of the world's oldest collections of Chinese art and artifacts at the China Institute in Lower Manhattan.
Founded in New York City in 1926 by American educators John Dewey, Paul Monroe, and Chinese scholars Hu Shih (胡適) and Kuo Ping-Wen (郭秉文), China Institute of America is an internationally-renowned U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to deepening the world’s understanding of China through programs in art, business, cuisine, culture, and education. China Institute Gallery is one of the most highly regarded institutions for Chinese art in the U.S. that presents acclaimed thematic exhibitions of masterpieces spanning 5,000 years of China’s history, showcasing artwork rarely seen outside China.
The class went on a private, guided tour of the exhibit “China Institute Gallery at 60, 1966-2026: Selections from Three Millennia of Chinese Art." Dating from as early as 3000 BCE, the objects students examined included fine jades, rare bronze vessels, paintings, calligraphy, Buddhist sculpture, ceramics, artifacts and scholars’ objects. With the help of the tour guide and Chinese history expert, students explored the symbolism of dragons, horses, rocks, bamboo, and the use of jade in Chinese art.
After the guided tour, students created their own art. Using authentic wood blocks from China, students made wood block prints, each piece a unique interpretation of the artwork they saw in the gallery. They even made their own ink!
Ms. Gerasimovich elaborated on the connection between the trip and the curriculum. "We just learned about Buddhism, and are now learning about Ancient China. It was so impactful to see the art we have been studying right in front of us, and for so many of the ideas we have be learning about materialized in beautiful artwork from the time periods we have been talking about in class. It's magical to see the curriculum come to life in front of our eyes! Additionally, our students are so talented, so any opportunity I can engage our students in artwork is fun and heartwarming for me!"
#hsfi
#nycschools
@china.institute
As part of Christina Gerasimovich's unit on Ancient China, her 9th grade Global History students left the classroom and went on a journey to discover first-hand one of the world's oldest collections of Chinese art and artifacts at the China Institute in Lower Manhattan.
Founded in New York City in 1926 by American educators John Dewey, Paul Monroe, and Chinese scholars Hu Shih (胡適) and Kuo Ping-Wen (郭秉文), China Institute of America is an internationally-renowned U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to deepening the world’s understanding of China through programs in art, business, cuisine, culture, and education. China Institute Gallery is one of the most highly regarded institutions for Chinese art in the U.S. that presents acclaimed thematic exhibitions of masterpieces spanning 5,000 years of China’s history, showcasing artwork rarely seen outside China.
The class went on a private, guided tour of the exhibit “China Institute Gallery at 60, 1966-2026: Selections from Three Millennia of Chinese Art." Dating from as early as 3000 BCE, the objects students examined included fine jades, rare bronze vessels, paintings, calligraphy, Buddhist sculpture, ceramics, artifacts and scholars’ objects. With the help of the tour guide and Chinese history expert, students explored the symbolism of dragons, horses, rocks, bamboo, and the use of jade in Chinese art.
After the guided tour, students created their own art. Using authentic wood blocks from China, students made wood block prints, each piece a unique interpretation of the artwork they saw in the gallery. They even made their own ink!
Ms. Gerasimovich elaborated on the connection between the trip and the curriculum. "We just learned about Buddhism, and are now learning about Ancient China. It was so impactful to see the art we have been studying right in front of us, and for so many of the ideas we have be learning about materialized in beautiful artwork from the time periods we have been talking about in class. It's magical to see the curriculum come to life in front of our eyes! Additionally, our students are so talented, so any opportunity I can engage our students in artwork is fun and heartwarming for me!"
#hsfi
#nycschools
@china.institute
TALK TO YOU LATER!
CELL PHONE FREE CLASSROOMS = DISTRACTION FREE LEARNING
Beginning with the 2025–26 school year, students may not use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day on school grounds, except in approved circumstances. This procedure supports New York State’s Distraction-Free Schools law and New York City Public Schools Chancellor’s Regulation A-413.
Each morning at HSFI, students are asked to turn in their cell phones and other personal internet-enabled devices as they enter school. Every device is scanned in and scanned out, helping the school maintain an organized and accountable process. Phones are placed in specialized protective pouches and securely stored in designated boxes during the school day, as seen here. At the end of the student’s school day, the device is returned through an established distribution process.
Giovanni Raschilla, Assistant Principal of Safety and Security, explains the positive outcomes since the law took effect. "The purpose of this policy is not simply to take phones away. It is to give our children a school day where they can focus on instruction, interact with their classmates, participate fully in school activities, and learn without the constant distraction of notifications, texting, social media, and other online activity. I am also pleased to report the wonderful spirit of cooperation, community and shared responsibility among our students!"
#hsfi
#nycschools
#schoolsafety
#distractionfreelearning
CELL PHONE FREE CLASSROOMS = DISTRACTION FREE LEARNING
Beginning with the 2025–26 school year, students may not use personal internet-enabled electronic devices during the school day on school grounds, except in approved circumstances. This procedure supports New York State’s Distraction-Free Schools law and New York City Public Schools Chancellor’s Regulation A-413.
Each morning at HSFI, students are asked to turn in their cell phones and other personal internet-enabled devices as they enter school. Every device is scanned in and scanned out, helping the school maintain an organized and accountable process. Phones are placed in specialized protective pouches and securely stored in designated boxes during the school day, as seen here. At the end of the student’s school day, the device is returned through an established distribution process.
Giovanni Raschilla, Assistant Principal of Safety and Security, explains the positive outcomes since the law took effect. "The purpose of this policy is not simply to take phones away. It is to give our children a school day where they can focus on instruction, interact with their classmates, participate fully in school activities, and learn without the constant distraction of notifications, texting, social media, and other online activity. I am also pleased to report the wonderful spirit of cooperation, community and shared responsibility among our students!"
#hsfi
#nycschools
#schoolsafety
#distractionfreelearning
ADVANCED PLACEMENT TEST SCORES SET A NEW RECORD AT HSFI
While the High School of Fashion Industries' legacy and century-long reputation in the world of art and design education are renowned, another accolade is on the rise: its Advanced Placement academic program.
Melissa Frank, HSFI's Assistant Principal of both the Science and Advanced Placement departments, has been a keeping rock solid track record of enrollment and test score performance. Both are soaring to new heights, and she's proud to report the data over the past five years (post Covid):
During the 2025-2026 Academic Year, an unprecedented 69% of HSFI students taking Advanced Placement courses achieved the pass rate of 3 or higher.
In just five years, this score has surged from 32% in 2022.
AP testing is done nationwide each May, with a 5 being the highest score. Students get college credit when they score a minimum of 3 out of 5 on a test.
In the same year, the Advanced Placement program had its highest enrollment on record, with a total of 194 students in the 10th, 11th and 12th grade combined.
"HSFI is a dual focused school, so this is a tremendous accomplishment," Ms. Frank said. "It shows colleges that HSFI students are engaging in rigorous college level course work while they are in high school. It demonstrates a level of mastery. Colleges are looking for much more than just your GPA. SUNY and CUNY schools will advance AP students to the next course level."
There are also financial benefits to taking AP courses. Ms. Frank explained, "Students who are taking two or three AP level courses are going into college saving a lot of money. In some colleges, one credit can cost $1,000.00. In some cases, taking AP courses in high school can allow a student to finish college a semester or even a year early, and that saves a lot on tuition."
While taking three AP courses is not recommended, it is encouraged that all HSFI students take at least one.
Admission to these rigorous AP courses is based on strong academic performance, teacher recommendations, and a dedicated commitment to meeting college-level standards.
"Take your work seriously starting from Freshman year, "Ms. Frank said. "Attendance and arriving on time to school every day is greatly taken into consideration, as many of the AP courses are first period. Coursework and Regents test scores are taken into consideration."
HSFI currently offers the following 12 Advanced Placement courses across the arts, humanities, and STEM fields, each designed to foster deep critical thinking and academic excellence:
Biology
Psychology
Calculus AB
Pre-Calculus
English Language
English Literature
World History
US Government
US History
Art History
2D Art and Design
Computer Science Principles
See the link below with course descriptions:
www.hsfi.nyc/page/advanced-placement-courses
Melissa Frank is celebrating her 25th year at the High School of Fashion Industries and her and 20th year as Assistant Principal.
She has taught Elective Chemistry and Physics, and is currently teaching 11th and 12th grade Physics.
#hsfi
#nycschools
#advancedplacement
