Student Life

AFNA Voices!Student Leadership Ambassador Program Student Celebrations, Holidays & Themes Attendance Awards Incentives Student Government College and Career Readiness G.R.A.C.E. Awards Debate Team

AFNA Voices!

Student Spooktacular Interviews with Ms. Diamantatos

Join us as AFNA students share their favorite moments from this year’s Student Spooktacular. Through fun and engaging interviews with Ms. Diamantatos, students reflect on the creativity, excitement, and school spirit that made this celebration unforgettable.

Student Leadership Ambassador Program

The Student Leadership Ambassador Program at I.S. 235 is a year-long initiative that empowers returning students to serve as leaders, role models and mentors for their peers. Ambassadors help set a positive tone for our school, model our G.R.A.C.E. core values (Gratitude, Respect, Achievement, Compassion and Empowerment), and help build a welcoming school culture where every student belongs.

What Ambassadors Do

Leader in Me Facilitators

Lead peer study groups, support teachers in classroom activities and guide discussions on school values.

Welcoming Committee & Open House

Greet new students, give school tours and help during Open House and orientation days.

Peer Mentors

Pair with newer students to answer questions and help them adjust to school.

School Events

Help organize multicultural nights, G.R.A.C.E. Days and community service projects.

Recognition

Ambassadors receive Certificates of Achievement each semester and are honored at an End-of-Year Celebration with medals or trophies. Outstanding ambassadors may be invited to continue in leadership roles the following school year, such as leading projects or representing our school at district events.

Student Celebrations, Holidays & Themes

Hispanic Heritage Month

View Hispanic Heritage Celebration (PDF)

Attendance Awards

Attendance Award recipients at I.S. 235 Academy for New Americans

Students honored for strong attendance at I.S. 235

Incentives

I.S. 235 School Initiatives Plan 2026–2027

View School Initiatives Plan (PDF)View Our Incentives (Canva)

School Wide Theme 🌟

“Together, We Can Reach for the STARS!”

Our back-to-school theme is inspired by the movie “A Million Miles Away,” the true story of a boy who overcame great odds to achieve his dream of reaching space. His journey speaks to every student who is adjusting to a new environment and working hard to reach their own goals. Throughout the school year, this theme encourages our students to persevere, embrace challenges, and believe in their own potential.

“We don’t just aim for the stars — we launch our students toward them.”