The Dr. Ronald McNair/Public School 5 affirms as its central mission that every child has the right to a quality education in a safe and secure environment which reflects high expectations and high academic standards; that literacy is the first and most essential goal; and that every child can, and will succeed in ways that mirror his or her own aptitudes; interests and culture. We shall support collaboration among staff, parents, and community groups, to ensure that each child will become a contributing member of his or her community, our nation, and the world of the 21st century. P.S. 5 and its community will focus upon the attainment of the highest levels of academic achievement, interpersonal development, self-actualization, and cultural awareness. We will dedicate our energies towards achieving these results through standards driven instruction using the tenets of the New Continuum.