Your Dreams, Our Promise

We’re a K-3 tuition-free public charter school rooted in Buffalo, open to all, and designed to help students thrive—in the classroom and in life. Enroll today and join us for your child's full school journey.

Enrollment is open for all grades, and applying takes just 5 minutes.

As seen in:
A teacher and student working together
Dedicated Teachers
Buffalo-Born Administration
Open To All
Easy To Apply

Culture

Four young students working on an art project together

At BRICK Buffalo Academy, we believe education is more than academics—  a school should reflect the cultural identities and lived experiences of its students and families. Our curriculum is rooted in Ubuntu principles of collective care, celebrates the rich history and achievements of Black and Brown leaders, and fosters a culture of learning that builds character, leadership, and purpose.

Community

Two young girls in their school uniform smiling at the camera

We are more than just a school—we are a united community of students, families, teachers, community members, and leaders. We know that individual success is deeply tied to the success of the collective. We embody Ubuntu’s principle of interconnectedness and mutual support by ensuring families have the resources they need. From personalized student support to partnerships with local organizations, we aim to strengthen the well-being of our entire community.

Opportunity

Smiling boy in a classroom with students working in the background.

Education should open doors—to college, careers, and a future of unlimited potential. As a BRICK network member, we are committed to growing into a full-service K-12 school that prepares students for success through rigorous academics, leadership development, and experiential learning. With BRICK network’s commitment to economic mobility and equity, we ensure students don’t just graduate—they thrive as leaders, visionaries, and change-makers in their communities and beyond.

For families on a mission

At BRICK Buffalo Academy, we believe that all students deserve a quality education that reflects their culture, identity and voice. By rooting in the values of equity, agency, and opportunity, we prepare students to grow, explore, and lead with confidence and compassion in a diverse world.

A boy working on his computer with an urban collage scene in the background

Elementary School

Our students build a strong foundation in literacy, mathematics, and social emotional skills for a lifetime of learning. We currently offer seats for grades K-3. Each year we will add a grade level until we are a full K-5, so that our students can complete their full elementary education with us.

Open to all: no grades or attendance records required.

Two students playing with building block toys
Free after school care for learning and play.
Two students playing with building block toys
“Fun Friday” community events and fieldtrips
A young girl smiling at the camera while wearing computer headphones
Tech-supported curriculum.
Dedicated teachers rooted in the community.

Location:

30 Rich Street, Buffalo, NY

Free transportation

Daily schedule:

Classes 8am - 4pm

Free after care: 4 - 6pm

Uniforms:

Baby & navy blue

Two teachers & one teacher’s aide per classroom

A top school for mathematics growth in the state

Free after school care & wraparound family services

Our team: Buffalo-born and led

At BRICK Buffalo Academy, we believe in the power of education to celebrate identities, transform lives, and strengthen communities. Learning here is not just about academics—it’s about building character, confidence, and responsibility.

Antwan Barlow

“Having grown up on the east side of Buffalo and dedicated my career to providing educational opportunities for students facing generational barriers, I know firsthand the positive change the BRICK model can bring to a community.”

Antwan Barlow
Founding Executive Director
Lacole Brumfield

“Education is the key to breaking cycles and building futures. As a proud East Side resident of over 20 years, I am dedicated to empowering Buffalo’s families through education at BRICK Buffalo Academy Charter School—where every child’s potential is our priority."

Lacole Brumfield
Director of Operations
Dr. Peay

"As a life-long learner, education has always been my passion. I was brought up in a household where education was made a priority, it's the same mindset that I have when it comes to my community. At Brick Buffalo Academy Charter School, we believe and so we are courageous, tenacious, and devoted when it comes to our success."

Dr. Peay
Principal
OUR MODEL

The BRICK Network ensures every family has the resources they need to support their child’s journey.

BRICK Network Model

When you join BRICK Buffalo Academy, you become a part of the BRICK network.

THE OUTCOME

Ultimately, BRICK networks support families, propelling a sustainable cycle of social and economic growth.

The family's journey
from pre-cradle to career
Early childhood
  • Prenatal & parental care
  • Early assessment
  • Kindergarten readiness
School age
  • Responsive education
  • Tutoring
  • Social emotional wellness
  • Stable homes
Early adulthood
  • College counseling
  • Tutoring
  • Career pathways
  • Networking
Those we support today become the change-makers of tomorrow.
OUR MODEL

The BRICK Network ensures every family has the resources they need to support their child’s journey.

BRICK Network Model

When you join BRICK Buffalo Academy, you become a part of the BRICK network.

THE OUTCOME

Ultimately, BRICK networks support families, propelling a sustainable cycle of social and economic growth.

The family's journey
from pre-cradle to career
Early childhood
  • Prenatal & parental care
  • Early assessment
  • Kindergarten readiness
School age
  • Responsive education
  • Tutoring
  • Social emotional wellness
  • Stable homes
Early adulthood
  • College counsiling
  • Tutoring
  • Pathways
  • Networking
Those we support today become the change-makers of tomorrow.
OUR MODEL

The BRICK Network ensures every family has the resources they need to support their child’s journey.

BRICK Network Model

When you join BRICK Buffalo Academy, you become a part of the 
BRICK network.

THE OUTCOME

Ultimately, BRICK networks support families, propelling a sustainable cycle of social and economic growth.

The family's journey
from pre-cradle to career
Early childhood
  • Prenatal & parental care
  • Early assessment
  • Kindergarten readiness
School age
  • Responsive education
  • Tutoring
  • Social emotional wellness
  • Stable homes
Early adulthood
  • College counsiling
  • Tutoring
  • Pathways
  • Networking
Those we support today become the change-makers of tomorrow.
OUR MODEL

The BRICK Network ensures every family has the resources they need to support their child’s journey.

BRICK Network Model

When you join BRICK Buffalo Academy, you become a part of the BRICK network.

THE OUTCOME

Ultimately, BRICK networks support families, propelling a sustainable cycle of social and economic growth.

The family's journey
from pre-cradle to career
Early childhood
  • Prenatal & parental care
  • Early assessment
  • Kindergarten readiness
School age
  • Responsive education
  • Tutoring
  • Social emotional wellness
  • Stable homes
Early adulthood
  • College counsiling
  • Tutoring
  • Pathways
  • Networking
Those we support today become the change-makers of tomorrow.

The BRICK Buffalo Academy Roadmap

Building on BRICK's proven model, our vision is to offer a full K-12 school experience and supportive services.

A Proven Model for Lifelong Success

The BRICK network is a holistic economic mobility organization dedicated to supporting families at every stage of life, from pre-cradle to career. As a BRICK network member, our vision goes beyond academics to building strong, thriving communities where students and families can succeed together.

Growing with our students and families

While we currently serve grades K-3, we’re growing alongside our students and families to become a full K-5 school and eventually, K-12. Along the way, we're providing continuous support from early childhood through college and career. As part of the BRICK network, we’re not just preparing students for the future—we’re building it, brick by brick in the East Side.

Building strong community partnerships

We know that for children to learn and thrive, health, well-being, and education must be interconnected. That’s why we partner with local organizations, like Jericho Road Community Health Center, to ensure families have easy access to essential resources—from healthcare to community support services.

Voices from our community

“When I visited Brick Buffalo Academy, the atmosphere was absolutely amazing. The way that the children played and the staff were involved was incredible. I was like, this is the atmosphere that I want my children to be in.”
Parent
Brick Buffalo Academy
“BRICK Buffalo is very hands-on and responsive. If we had concerns, we were able to contact anyone on the team.”
Parent
Brick Buffalo Academy
“I wanted my child to see people like her in authority. A school with Black and Brown instructors and administration has furthered the idea that she can do absolutely anything.”
Parent
Brick Buffalo Academy

FAQs

Learn more about the application and enrollment process.

How do I apply?

The application for the 2025-2026 academic year is open, and our application can be found exclusively on the Enroll Buffalo Charters website. We encourage interested families to contact our main office or click below to visit the enrollment website.

Enroll Buffalo Charters is a school application and enrollment process that is available to all Buffalo families looking to access some of our city’s great school options. Families new to Buffalo can visit www.enrollbuffalocharters.org and create an account. Parents apply to all participating schools on one application, from their phone or desktop, ranking schools in order of preference.

Can I apply at any time during the year?

Yes, although the best time to apply for the next school year is by the lottery deadline (usually early April). Applying by the lottery gives you the best chance of the school having open seats. Some schools have openings even after the lottery. Even if the lottery deadline has passed, you are encouraged to apply.

Once I apply, is my child enrolled?

No. This website is a portal for applications, not enrollment. Families will be notified of enrollment by the schools to which they apply.

What is the lottery?

If a public charter school receives more applications than it has open seats available, the school conducts a lottery. Names are drawn at random through a computer program and families are notified automatically. After the lottery has been drawn, students will either be given an enrollment offer or be added to school waitlists. Students may be accepted at more than one school.

What is the deadline to apply?

To participate in the lotteries, applications must be received before the lottery deadline (usually early April). Following this date, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. If a school is fully enrolled, then students will be placed on a waitlist. Families are encouraged to apply even if the lottery deadline has passed.

Still have questions?

Get started

Don't wait—give your child the opportunity to thrive in a school designed for their success.

Get started
Enrollment closes on April 4