Clubs
At PS 889, we enrich our students’ educational experiences through a variety of engaging residency programs that bring artists, educators, and specialists into our classrooms. These opportunities are made possible through grants and generous funding support, often raised by our dedicated Parent Association (PA). Residencies provide students with unique hands-on learning experiences that inspire creativity, curiosity, and exploration beyond the traditional classroom.
Residency programs vary in length, focus, and availability from year to year, depending on funding and school priorities. Below is a selection of programs offered during the previous school year, many of which we hope to welcome back. Each residency reflects our commitment to providing students with meaningful, enriching experiences that support their academic, social, and creative growth.
Stop-Motion Animation
led by Puppetry in Practice
Students worked in small groups to create the animated scenes included in this film. Throughout the residency, students worked with animation software, utilized laptop computers and webcams, and were introduced to a variety of animation techniques.
4th grade students created this stop motion animation based on the Aesop's fable, "The Tortoise and the Hare."
5th grade students worked with Puppetry in Practice artists to create this stop motion animation based on the Langston Hughes poem, "The City."
3rd grade students made this stop motion animation based on the Jack Prelutsky poem, "A Pizza the Size of the Sun."
Mexican Dance Lessons and Performance
Through a six-week residency with Calpulli Mexican Dance Company, our first and second graders explore the vibrant traditions of Mexican culture through music, movement, and dance. Students learn traditional dance steps and choreography while developing coordination, confidence, and an appreciation for cultural expression. The residency culminates in a special performance where students proudly showcase what they have learned, wearing colorful traditional costumes that bring the dances to life.
1st and 2nd grade dance performance in the schoolyard
The Nutcracker Project
led by NYC Ballet
Through a special residency with the New York City Ballet (NYCB), students explore the magic of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® through dance, music, poetry, and creative movement. Led by NYCB Teaching Artists, the six interactive workshops encourage artistic expression, collaboration, and imagination while introducing students to the world of ballet. The experience culminates in an unforgettable trip to Lincoln Center, where students attend a live performance of The Nutcracker, bringing their classroom learning to life.
3rd graders learning dance movements for the Nutcracker.
Project Ballet
led by NYC Ballet
Through this inspiring residency with the New York City Ballet (NYCB), students discover the art of choreography and explore how creativity and inspiration shape dance. Guided by NYCB Teaching Artists, students participate in ten movement-based workshops inspired by the works of renowned choreographers George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, and Justin Peck. Working collaboratively, students create and present their own original dances while developing confidence, artistic expression, and critical thinking skills. The experience also includes an interactive lecture-demonstration and a special trip to Lincoln Center to attend a live NYCB performance.
5th graders learning dance movements for the Nutcracker.
Alden Moves
led by Alden Moves Dance Theater
4th Graders traveled off campus to the local Alden Moves Dance Theater studio for a six-week residency.
4th graders dancing in the halls of 889.
STEM Stories and Experiments
led by STEM and Story
Through an engaging residency with STEM & Story Studio, students discover the exciting connections between storytelling, science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. As students design, invent, and explore, they strengthen problem-solving, critical thinking, fine motor skills, and collaboration. This imaginative, screen-free experience encourages students to think creatively, embrace challenges, and see themselves as young makers, inventors, and innovators.
PreK and Kindergarteners
Violin
led by Brooklyn Conservatory of Music
Thanks to the generous support of our Parent Association (PA), which purchased violins for our students, all second and third graders have the opportunity to learn to play the violin through a special residency led by an instructor from the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music. In second grade, students are introduced to the fundamentals of violin playing, including proper instrument positioning, bowing techniques, and playing on different strings. In third grade, they build on these skills by learning finger placement, producing different notes, and playing simple melodies. This enriching musical experience fosters creativity, concentration, coordination, and confidence while introducing students to the joy of making music.
PreK and Kindergarteners