New York Atatürk School began the 2026-2027 academic year with an opening program attended by students, parents, teachers and alumni. The program, held on September 19, 2026, also announced a scholarship initiative launched to support Atatürk School graduates preparing for university. An initial contribution of $7,500 was provided as part of the initiative, and the total support is expected to reach $15,000 if an equal amount is raised through donations.
The school's new academic year opened within an institutional structure that continues to connect Turkish children living in the United States with Turkish-language and cultural education. The opening program brought together different members of the school community and highlighted an effort to support alumni during their university years as well.
Turkish-language and cultural education since 1971
According to the school's official institutional information, New York Atatürk School has been operating since 1971. In 2021, the institution commemorated its history with special events and online programs marking its 50th anniversary. The 2026-2027 academic year therefore began after 55 years of educational and cultural activities.
Operating under the Turkish American Women's Association, the school offers a curriculum that includes Turkish, Turkish culture, Turkish history, Atatürk's life and national holidays. The institution's educational goals include raising modern individuals who are proficient in Turkish, embrace Turkish culture and follow the principles of Atatürk. By teaching Turkish as a second language, the school aims to strengthen Turkish children's ties to their national and cultural identity.
Online programs expand the education network
Alongside in-person classes, the school also offers online education opportunities. Accepting students from different parts of the United States and Canada since 2022 has enabled Turkish-language and cultural education to reach a broader Turkish-American family community beyond the New York area.
The scholarship initiative announced for the new academic year reflects an approach that extends the school's educational activities beyond Turkish-language classes during childhood. The support is aimed at Atatürk School alumni preparing for university. Plans call for the existing $7,500 contribution to reach $15,000 through an equal donation, while the final total depends on completion of the donation process.
