TEP was founded in 2009 by Zeke Vanderhoek, a Yale graduate and former middle school teacher.
Prior to founding TEP, Zeke was the founder and chairman of the educational company Manhattan Prep.
[citation needed] In 2013–14, 86% of students were free lunch eligible, 21% were English Language Learners, and 18% received special education services.
[6] TEP offers high teacher salaries by reducing administrative costs in the following areas:[8] TEP operates on a year-round academic trimester schedule and instructs students in six subjects: English, math, science, social studies, physical education/health, and music.
TEP offers a variety of athletics and enrichment opportunities, including competitive sports teams and clubs in the areas of academics, student governance, and the arts.