Diana Schlesinger, Head of School and Co-Founder
Diana has been a teacher and educational administrator in cultural, community organizations and schools for over thirty years. Diana holds a Dual Degree MS Ed. from Bank Street College, a MA from University of Wisconsin - Madison, a BS from Oberlin College and a certificate in Educational Policy and Leadership from Columbia University. Born and raised in NYC, Diana lives in Brooklyn with her husband and dog and enjoys visits from her grown children.
Welcome from our Head of School
When I co-founded Greene Hill School in 2009, we envisioned a place where children are encouraged to think creatively, set high ambitions and engage fully with the complexities of the world around them. Today, Greene Hill is a vibrant Pre-k - 8th grade independent school with a sliding-scale tuition in the heart of Fort Greene, Brooklyn, where we continue to live out that vision every day.
Our experienced and dedicated faculty are at the heart of this journey. They model the power of deep learning, kindness, and empathy. GHS teachers support students in pursuing their passions during self-directed open-work, while playing on sports teams and conceptualizing the annual all-school musical. Throughout a student’s journey at GHS, we partner with families to foster children’s self-awareness, promote autonomy, and achieve their goals.
At Greene Hill School, students explore essential questions about identity, community, and the world. They study topics like the history of immigration, media bias, and ocean ecosystems. From an early age we emphasize learning through authentic experiences including problem solving and collaborative work. Students read primary documents, engage with experts and visit cultural sites on field trips throughout the year. Beginning in the 8s (3rd grade) students take overnight trips to spend time in nature and build community. As part of our commitment to helping children develop empathy and see themselves as changemakers, all children participate in community service within the school and with local non-profit organizations.
Greene Hill students graduate with a strong sense of curiosity and purposeful academic ambitions. They are accepted to their top choices at excellent high schools and place into advanced classes in Spanish, math, art and science. As young adults they are studying architecture, creating independent films, launching businesses and enrolling in graduate programs. Our alumni are curious, thoughtful, and eager to tackle the world’s challenges. Most importantly, they stay connected with us, sharing their ongoing successes.
I am so glad that you are exploring Greene Hill School and this website is a great place to begin. You can hear from some of our community members here, and I hope to meet you soon on an admissions tour. Please be in touch with our admissions team with any questions you might have along the way. We’d love to hear from you.
Diana