A Message to the 82nd Street Academics Community​

​

Dear 82nd Street Academics Family,

​

It is with deep gratitude and humility that I introduce myself to this incredible community. My name is Michael Selkis, and I am honored to serve as the Executive Director/CEO of 82nd Street Academics. Every day, I wake up feeling fortunate to be part of an organization with such a powerful mission—one that not only uplifts students and families but strengthens the very fabric of Jackson Heights, the greatest neighborhood in the United States.

​

At the heart of 82nd Street Academics is a commitment to equity, education, and opportunity. We believe that every child, no matter their background, deserves a future filled with possibility. We believe in the power of education to break barriers, open doors, and transform lives. And we believe that none of this happens in isolation—it happens through community, through connection, and through a shared commitment to lifting one another up.

​

This is a deeply personal mission for me. As a lifelong educator and advocate, I have dedicated my career to creating spaces where every child can thrive. But beyond my professional journey, I come to this work as a husband, a father, and someone who understands the importance of belonging. My family has taught me the values of kindness, humility, and perseverance—values that I bring to my leadership and that I hope to instill in all that we do here at 82nd Street Academics.

​

Jackson Heights is a neighborhood unlike any other—a place where cultures intertwine, where languages mix in the air like music, and where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated. We embrace this richness, and we want 82nd Street Academics to be a place where every family feels seen, valued, and supported. Our doors are open not just as a school, but as a partner to this community. We are here to listen, to learn, and to grow alongside you.

​

As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to dream with us. To imagine a future where every student has the support they need to succeed. To build a space where families, educators, and neighbors come together to create something bigger than ourselves. And to commit to making Jackson Heights not just a great place to live, but a place where every child has the opportunity to flourish.

Thank you for welcoming me so warmly. I am excited for the journey ahead and grateful to stand alongside each of you in service to our children and our community.

​

With appreciation and commitment,

​​​

Michael Selkis
Executive Director/CEO
82nd Street Academics

​

​

​

​​​​​​​​​​​​​

​

Join Us in Making a Difference

​

We invite you to be part of our journey. Your partnership can help us provide even more opportunities for our students. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community.