Pamela Wheaton Expert Advice on NYC Schools

Pamela Wheaton

NYC Public School Expert

I’m a journalist with decades of reporting experience in Latin America and the U.S. After covering politics at the daily Buenos Aires Herald newspaper and producing public affairs programs for public television in New York City, I spent 16-plus years covering the local school beat as a writer and editor for InsideSchools.org.

My foray into school news began after I successfully navigated the New York City public school system to find the right schools for my two daughters. I honed my school-sleuthing savvy on the sidelines of my daughter’s weekly soccer games where I found myself giving advice to other parents about which schools might be the best options for their children.

In 2002, I parlayed this expertise into a new venture as one of a small team of journalists who founded InsideSchools.org. It has since become the go-to public school resource in New York City. As managing editor, I visited and reviewed schools in all five boroughs. I blogged about schools, giving admissions tips and helping parents stay on top of deadlines. And, I collaborated on a series of books about NYC’s Best Public Schools with author Clara Hemphill.

I now employ my research skills and nose for news to help other families.

I am passionate about public school education in New York City! Both my daughters graduated from two of the most popular specialized high schools — one academic (Stuvesant High School) and the other in the arts (LaGuardia). They made lifelong friends from all parts of this diverse city and were well-prepared for demanding colleges and careers.

Get in touch with Pamela

In 2019, I launched SchoolScoutNYC. It can be tough to navigate the city’s public school system. I provide a roadmap. I meet with families and give presentations at community groups and corporations to provide expert advice and up-to-date information about New York City’s public schools.

As a recognized authority on public schools, I have appeared on radio and television networks such as WNYC, NY1 and Univision. I have been interviewed and quoted by the New York Times, The Daily News, Chalkbeat and New York Post, among other media outlets.

Here’s what parents have to say

Testimonials

"As first time parents, we learned a great deal from [Pamela]- from how and when to apply to the free Pre-K program to where to go for additional information. As a parent who has sent her own children to NYC public schools, Pamela is a valuable resource when it comes to navigating the NYC public school system."

-Robie, parent of toddler

"What was most helpful for us was learning about the little gems, that we would have had to do a lot of digging around to find on our own. Your rational approach and assurance that we will all be fine, and make fine choices for our children (the sky will not fall!), was also very encouraging. We appreciated the info about charter schools and Gifted &Talented and hearing the pros and cons, from your expert perspective."

- Ali, mom to a rising pre-k student