In the late 1960's, when the Christian Brothers were teaching at Mater Christi Diocesan High School in Astoria, starting a school like Martin de Porres or working with emotionally disturbed children were not pieces of their “life plan”.
They were comfortable teaching subjects like Religion, English and Physics.
They eventually moved on to become assistant principals, deans and moderators of athletic teams.
What appeared to be a simple request to assist poor students would lead them on an unexpected path.
Over a few years time, they and their colleagues would make one commitment after another that would lead them into the vanguard of special education in New York City.
We Teach all who have been entrusted to our care that they are lovable and worthwhile persons capable of making responsible choices based upon respect for themselves and for the other persons in their lives and capable of establishing relationships of trust among our diverse community of adults and peers.
With faith and zeal we seek to continually develop creative ways to touch the hearts and minds of the young people entrusted to our care both at home and around the world.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Inquire with school
- Enrollment: 300 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
Martin De Porres ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for:
Category
Attribute
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Inquire with school
Year Founded
1974
Student Body
Total Students
300 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
94%
State avg.: 40%
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
27 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Application URL
School Notes
- School Motto: Touch Hearts, Instill Hope and Transform Lives.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What schools are Martin De Porres often compared to?
Martin De Porres is often viewed alongside schools like Martin De Porres High School by visitors of our site.
When is the application deadline for Martin De Porres?
The application deadline for Martin De Porres is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Martin De Porres. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

What Private School Alumni Say a Decade Later
Ten years after graduation, private school alumni reflect on advantages, regrets, career impact, and life lessons—unearthing truths families need to know.

Can Private School Help with College Admissions?
Explore how private schools influence college admissions—advantages, limitations, and what families should expect.

Inside the Daily Life of a Private School Student
Discover what daily life is like for private school students in 2025, from classes and athletics to dining, dorms, and extracurriculars.