PS3 began operating independently that September. Its founding model included mixed-age classrooms, active family participation, meaningful teacher leadership, and an emphasis on helping children develop confidence, curiosity, creativity, and independence.

John Melser, a progressive educator from New Zealand, became PS3’s founding head teacher and guided the school from 1971 until 1991. He helped transform the community’s ambitious ideas into a lasting school culture built on respect, participation, and the belief that children should have meaningful voices in their education.
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Although today it is commonly known as PS3 Charrette School, in 1994 the school community renamed it the John Melser Charrette School, honoring both the educator who shaped its formative years and the collaborative process through which the modern school was created.
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PS3 has evolved across generations, but its founding principles remain recognizable today: strong academics, integrated arts, independent thinking, close relationships, and a community that takes an active role in the life of its school.

Our Historic Building

PS3’s home at 490 Hudson Street stands on one of New York City’s oldest public school sites. The first School No. 3 opened near Hudson and Christopher Streets in 1818, establishing a tradition of public education on this West Village block that has continued for more than two centuries.

The present five-story building was completed in 1905 and designed by C. B. J. Snyder, New York City’s influential Superintendent of School Buildings. Snyder helped transform the design of the city’s public schools, creating buildings that placed greater emphasis on natural light, ventilation, safety, and spaces designed specifically for children.

At PS3, Snyder adapted his design to the shape of the surrounding West Village streets. The building’s red-brick exterior, mansard roof, distinctive dormer windows, and expansive classroom windows have made it a recognizable neighborhood landmark for generations.

An auditorium and rooftop playground were added in 1916. More recent renovations have restored the exterior masonry, renewed the auditorium, created an updated rooftop play area, and improved the school’s kitchen and cafeteria.

For more than a century, the building has adapted to the changing needs of its students while preserving the history and character that make it an enduring part of the West Village.