MICKEY MANTLE SCHOOL LANDMARKED

the mickey mantle school, housed in a building constructed more than 100 years ago, was designated a city landmark on oct. 14.

the school was one of eight built around the turn of the century, when the upper west side was still a burgeoning neighborhood. it is the city's oldest public school building that still stands today.

located at 466 west end ave. between west 82nd and 83rd streets, the structure was originally grammar school no. 9 and is now named after mantle, a yankee legend. the school is a special education facility that serves disabled students.

kate wood, executive director of the group landmark west, pointed out that the dutch renaissance revival-style building was considered an ideal place for learning, and that idea has stood the test of time.

"it pays attention to maximizing the amount of light and air into the classroom," wood said. "a building that speaks to history and is a pleasant place to spend eight hours a day is a good place for students to be."