Originally opened in 1960, Rev. John Giffen,
M.D., Memorial Elementary School serves students from
prekindergarten through grade 6. Giffen underwent significant
improvements that were finished in summer 2009, including a
renovated computer lab, new phone connections, new air
conditioning and new lighting in the gym, cafeteria and
auditorium. Giffen is the 11th school to be completed
as part of the district’s sweeping plan to rebuild or renovate
every elementary and middle school by September 2010.
Students: 479
Teachers: 40
Total employees: 80
Points of distinction:
Giffen is an integral part of the community and
fortunate to have partnerships with numerous organizations and
agencies.
Programs and partnerships:
·
15 Love Literacy Program
·
Albany County Department of
Mental Health
·
Albany Housing Authority
·
Albany Housing Choir
·
Annual Science Fair and
Spelling Bee
·
Band, chorus, orchestra
·
Before- and after-school
programs
·
Columbia Writing Project
·
Family Resource and Support
Center
·
Full-day K and pre-K
·
Homework Club
·
National Urban Alliance for
Effective Education
·
NYS Department of Motor
Vehicles Reading Buddies
·
Reigning Life Church
·
Ronald McDonald House
·
St. Peter’s Hospital
·
Two Together Literacy
Project
·
Whitney M. Young Jr. Health
Services
·
YMCA
What makes our school special?
Giffen is truly a melting pot, with students that
represent more than 12 countries and speak 13 different languages.
Consequently, Giffen students learn to respect and embrace cultural
differences. We welcome our English-language learners and provide
them with resources to assimilate. Giffen also is an exciting
learning place where young people develop their natural gifts and
abilities as they gain self-confidence. Students grow to become
well-adjusted independent thinkers as they explore their
intelligences. Children are empowered to become strong, responsible
citizens through the dedicated efforts of all members within the
learning community.
Did you know?
The school is named after Rev. John Giffen, M.D., a
turn-of-the-century minister and physician who served Albany’s South
End families for more than 30 years until his death in 1925.
