The 400-plus students at Manhattan Theatre Lab School say they were meant to shine on stage and in school, but now their program is on the city’s short list for potential closure. NY1's Rebecca Spitz filed the following report.

The stage is a second home for students from Manhattan Theater Lab, just like their school. But they may soon have to look for another. MTL as it’s called is on the city’s short list for potential phase-out.

The reason given at a public hearing at the school late last month was that it earned an overall "F" grade on a 2010-11 progress report.

But principal Evelyn Collins says it isn’t deserved; arguing the fusion of arts and academics at MTL helps students thrive.

“When you’re able to connect kids to success through the arts, traditionally you’re able to connect them to success in their academics as well," said Collins.

But MTL’s progress report dropped from a "B" to a "C" and then a potentially fatal “F”.
Some students say it just doesn’t make sense.

“Academically, I was able to strive. I’m a straight "A" student and get the grades that I do because of the teachers," said 12th grader Iona Johnson.

In fact, Department of Education data suggests MTL’s six-year graduation rate is significantly higher than the citywide average. Some advocates suggest MTL is in hot water because some teachers there were intentionally undermining the students' performance, virtually ensuring an “F” grade. The motive, though, remains unclear.

"The Department of Education is investigating that and I hope that any phase-out of the school would be tabled until that investigation is complete," said PENCIL Partner Jami Floyd.

Several elected parent councils have also asked the DOE to hold off any decision pending the outcome of that investigation.

Meantime, students are anxious, waiting for the city’s Panel on Educational Policy to vote.

"When it comes down to it, if this school closes we’ll just be like nothing anymore," said 9th grader Aldo Guerrero.

The PEP has never voted against a closure proposal but the DOE has withdrawn or delayed them before, so there could be a bit of hope for a school with a good argument.