ARGYRIOS FANTIS PARISH SCHOOL: Preserving Greek heritage and academic excellence
Dr. Anastasios Koularmanis, Director of the Department of Greek Education, will publish a series of articles focused on Greek education, with a particular focus on several day schools.
In 1963, a remarkable educational institution opened its doors to Brooklyn’s Greek-American community. Argyrios Fantis Parish School, affectionately known as A. Fantis, has since become a beacon of Greek culture, Orthodox faith and academic excellence for its students. Founded with a strong sense of community and a commitment to preserving Greek heritage, this esteemed school continues to thrive today.
The origins of A. Fantis Parish School date back to the early 1900s, when a tight-knit group of Greek immigrants to Brooklyn sought to establish a vibrant Greek Orthodox community. Their vision came to fruition in 1916 with the completion of the Cathedral of Saints Constantine and Helen in Brooklyn Heights. As the Greek immigrant population continued to grow, the community recognized the need for a dedicated academic institution. Thanks to the unwavering support of its parishioners and the generous contributions of Greek-American entrepreneur Argyrios Fantis, the dream of a Greek-American school became a reality.
In 1963, the A. Fantis Parish School opened its doors to more than three hundred and fifty enthusiastic students at 195 State Street. The school’s comprehensive educational program extends from Kindergarten/Pre-K through 8th grade, serving a diverse and co-ed student body.
A. Fantis Parish School prides itself on providing an education that is not only academically rigorous, but also deeply rooted in Greek culture and the Orthodox faith. By fostering an environment that celebrates and embraces similarities among students, the school creates strong family and friendship bonds. Serving as a gateway to success, A. Fantis empowers his students to seize the opportunities of living in America while imparting to them the value of preserving and embracing their Greek heritage as an integral part of their identify. Although the school has experienced a decline in enrollment in recent years, it remains true to its mission and continues to adapt to changing demographics.
Since 2005, A. Fantis Parish School has adopted an inclusive approach by welcoming children baptized in all Christian traditions. This enriching environment benefits both Greek and non-Greek students, as non-Greeks are exposed to Greek culture and language, while Greek students are introduced to different cultures, facilitating a smoother transition from college to high school. Today, the school boasts a diverse student body, with students fluent in languages such as Spanish, Italian, French and Finnish.
While New York’s Greek-American population has experienced a decline, A. Fantis Parish School remains steadfast in its commitment to providing a stimulating educational environment. Despite the closure of Brooklyn’s Greek-American schools, A. Fantis continues to thrive. The school’s ability to adapt, welcome non-Greek students, and maintain a focus on Greek culture, religion, and extracurricular activities has been instrumental in its continued success.
As A. Fantis Parish School continues to shape the minds and hearts of its students, it remains a testament to the enduring spirit of Brooklyn’s Greek-American community. Through his dedication to academic excellence, the preservation of Greek heritage, and the promotion of cultural diversity, A. Fantis serves as a cornerstone of education and community for generations to come.
