A Mott Haven elementary school celebrated its 10-year anniversary Wednesday by opening the doors of a new middle school.

New York Foundling's Mott Haven Academy Middle School for Social Leadership officially opened its doors to 100 fifth- and sixth-graders.

The charter school on Brown Place currently serves more than 400 students -- who are in foster care, whose families are in shelters or who are part of the city's child welfare system.

Each class has two teachers, and the specialized school has several therapists and counselors helping students cope with family problems and personal hardships.

Wednesday's grand opening also celebrated the first day of class for the entire student body.

The charter school has plans to expand up to the eighth grade.