Specialized high school results released
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Eighth-graders (and some 9th-graders) across the city learned this week whether they were offered seats at the city’s specialized high schools, including the eight schools for which students take the Specialized High School Admissions Test, and LaGuardia High School which requires auditions and a review of a student’s academic record. Nearly 6000 8th-graders — 5,898 — received an offer. (No word yet on how many 9th-graders got offers.) Close to 2000 9th graders — 1,964 –took the exam and 174 received an offer.
Of 27,000 applicants citywide for the exam schools, 5,261 were offered seats. Last year 5,246 got offers. At LaGuardia 1,000 kids got one or more offers as applicants often do multiple auditions. Of those 1,000 students, 363 also got accepted by one of the exam schools. Thirty 9th-graders received 36 offers to programs in LaGuardia. Of those, two students who received an offer to LaGuardia also received an offer to a specialized testing school.
Students who made the cut also learned about their high school placements to non-specialized high schools. But, the vast majority of students who participated in the specialized high school process — nearly 21,000 — will have to wait for March 24th, when all applicants will receive their results.
Students with offers in hand have until Feb. 23 to decide which one to accept. Feb. 23 is also the deadline for students to submit a new application to apply to one of the 16 new high schools opening next fall. Families may learn about more about those at a fair this weekend.
Watch The InsideSCOOP for updates on the high school admissions process; we’ll add information as we get it. Let us know how things unfolded at your school. Share your information in comments below.
UPDATE: The lowest score for which an offer was made was 470 for the eighth grade and 480 for the ninth grade.
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Does anyone know if you still get a letter letting you know if you did NOT get in to either exam school or LAG?
Comment by pd — February 5, 2010 @ 3:15 pm
Yes, you will get a letter IF you did NOT get into any Specialized HS or LAG
Comment by Anon — February 5, 2010 @ 3:18 pm
It worked out OK for us. DS got into his second choice SHSAT school and first choice regular school. They got their letters on their way out of the building. DS didn’t see any episodes of hysterical crying or jubilant celebration, although he was pretty happy. Next step, deciding. Would Inside schools consider starting a thread in which readers pose a choice between different schools and get feedback on attributes of the two schools?
Comment by Hardworking mom — February 5, 2010 @ 3:40 pm
my dd didn’t get into any schools, she was pretty upset but is ok now. we’re waiting for the main round. wish us luck. congrats to all who made it to specialized.
Comment by misty21 — February 5, 2010 @ 3:51 pm
I got a 520 for Staten Island Tech (I’m in 9th grade)
I don’t know if I want to go because I would take THREE classes with freshmen
Comment by Travis — February 5, 2010 @ 4:14 pm
#3–you can always do this in the forum.
#4–Good luck!
We are quite happy today, but last night was a different story. My daughter’s school just released the results today, but last night her friends, one after another, kept posting on facebook that they got into Bard–the school my daughter is set on. How did they know? Bard sent out emails to accepted students. We kept waiting and hoping to get my daughter’s acceptance, but it never came, and she became more distraught. Nobody slept. Then today came the results–and a spot at Bard! Our email came even later. Actually, my daughter doesn’t know yet–she’s on a class trip. Can’t wait to tell her.
Comment by waiting and wondering — February 5, 2010 @ 4:19 pm
My son got into Brooklyn Tech, which we’re happy about, but he didn’t hear anything one way or another about ANY of the non specialized schools he listed. Does that mean that he didn’t get into any of those?
Comment by confused — February 5, 2010 @ 9:07 pm
i`m like so nervous! i`m a ninth grader . & i still didn`t get my results back yet , & this is like my second time taking the shsat ):
& @ confused ; your son probably didn`t get into the other schools , it would say it then.
Comment by Tracy — February 5, 2010 @ 9:45 pm
My child received an offer from Stuyvesant with a score of 564. Her friend had a score of 561 and did not get into Stuyvesant.
Comment by Morningsider — February 5, 2010 @ 10:49 pm
Post #7: If you received an offer for Specialized, NYC DOE will also offer the non-Specialized: Look on the application under Section A (in the middle) - you will see two or MORE bubble - you need to fill in the bubble (school) your son wants to attend.
Comment by Anon — February 6, 2010 @ 7:22 am
My son has the happy problem of having to choose between LaG and Beacon, and it indeed would be good to talk to others about making this choice. Someone mentioned the forum, but I find that hard to use here. I will try though. It would be good to get opinions of parents with students who have graduated from the two schools. LaG is more established, offers that music background, but for a kid who plays a non-orchestral instrument, I wonder how much time they get to play their instrument, in this case guitar. Beacon has a lower grad rate (85% according to Inside Schools, compared to 96% at LaGuardia). Why is the grad rate so much lower? Anyway, I’ll take this to the forum or just IRL to other parents. Good luck all, for the March round.
Comment by Happy mom — February 6, 2010 @ 8:43 am
well, my child was one of the unlucky ones, many friends were accepted into a variety of schools, and she was devasted to say the least. My heart aches for her! She has a 97 average, impecable attendance. Now the main round, where Beacon (of course!) is her first choice. Is there hope that she may be selected for one of her top 3? Question,how might this affect the main round selection? What kind of system puts kids thru this?
Comment by gammy — February 6, 2010 @ 9:08 am
For #11 above. It’s my understanding that kids who get into LaG on guitar or piano are required to take up a 2nd band or orchestral instrument so they can be part of the ensembles, while they continue to study their primary instrument. Be sure to ask about this at the Open House next Thursday night.
For #12, my child got into her top choice Specialized HS and will be releasing her Beacon acceptance. I know several kids in the same position doing the same regarding Beacon. I hope this helps keep your daughter’s hopes high until the Main Round.
Comment by LaGuardia parent — February 6, 2010 @ 10:27 am
I’m back with more for #11: regarding the LaG graduation rate. All I can say is that in my unscientific observation, student at LaG are very happy and having daily classes in their chosen discipline keeps them coming to school and wanting to do well.
Comment by LaGuardia parent — February 6, 2010 @ 10:30 am
Post #7 & 10: This is a really important question and we’re also confused. My son received an offer at Brooklyn Latin but we were counting on getting a regular school offer also. We thought the DOE would definitely give two choices. Some of you have experience with this process. Can you help clarify things?
Comment by confused in Brooklyn — February 6, 2010 @ 12:54 pm
Unfortunately, there is no guarantee of getting two choices. It means he wasn’t accepted to another school in this round. If you take your chances and give up the Brooklyn Latin seat he may or may not get in to one of the non-specialized schools in the main round. I visited Brooklyn Latin, and it looked like a fantastic school.
Comment by waiting and wondering — February 6, 2010 @ 1:08 pm
We have to choose between LAG and NEST (our 3rd choice) and Domincan Aacademy(private Catholic all girls). DD is a gifted muscician, but also a high achieving honors student who LOVES math and science. Can parents with experience weigh in: is LAG academically rigourous enough for such a high achieving kid- who loves her music, but who may want to seriously pursue a path in math/science? Is NEST as rigid, austere, secular as it appears? Can anyone comment on NEST upper school? Then, Domincan appears to be a great ‘bang for your buck’ academically as compared to other private schools? We also got Brooklyn Latin, but honestly have never considered this… Would really appreciate comments from informed parents. Much thanks and BEST to you ALL.
Comment by pd_anxious — February 6, 2010 @ 1:54 pm
Wondering what you mean by “secular” in this instance, #17, because all the public schools are secular. You have to take the Catholic school if you want something else.
Congratulations on LAG. That is a wonderful achievement. From my friend, whose daughter goes to LAG, and takes lots of honors classes, I hear there are plenty of opportunities for academic kids. So many musicians are also great mathematicians.
I visited NEST and was less impressed with that school than any other, and I saw a lot. I did a lot of research and nothing changed my opinion, but what do I know–I don’t have a child there. Does NEST have an open house, like LAG does?
I visited Brooklyn Latin and loved it. I don’t think it has a music program, though. Best wishes in your decision! We’re having a lot of trouble deciding, also. It’s wonderful to have such good choices, though.
Comment by Deciding — February 6, 2010 @ 2:27 pm
Thank you, #18 Deciding. In my angst over this , I guess ’secular’ was a poor word choice for what I was trying to convey. Maybe insular, a better word. My husband and I also did a TON of research. In the end, he and my DD decided to rank nest 3rd over other schools, primarily because of math, science emphasis and since it is a high performing school. ( I am befuddled why such an outstanding student did not get #1 or #2?!) I, on the hand, have always had my reservations on the ‘climate’ of this school. Maybe it is great academically, but it seems like such an unjoyous and austere environment. I worry about my DD being happy here, and would love to hear from others? Please, someone who has a child there, tell me i am wrong? I didn’t think that any of the non -specialized were having more open houses to help you decide , but i will double check this. Again, Thanks for taking the time to respond.
Comment by pd_anxious — February 6, 2010 @ 2:45 pm
My son is at LaGuardia, and plays guitar as his primary instrument, altho he plays sax in the ensembles. From talking to piano and guitar students at LaGuardia, it seems that many of the piano kids end up in percussion, for ensembles (xylophone and drums), and many of the guitar kids end up playing cello or bass. They seem very happy, and all of them have opportunities to also play piano or guitar, in classes and also for performance. You can play piano or guitar in the jazz bands, pit orchestra for the annual musical and the annual operetta, and also for the composers’ class (New Music Singer).
Regarding comparisons of LAG and Beacon, my child turned down Beacon for LAG. It was definitely the right decision for him. LAG is filled with very bright and hugely talented kids who love to go to LAG and who would stay until they turn out the lights. That’s why attendance is high, despite 2 hour commutes for some of the SI kids.
Comment by Queens Parent — February 6, 2010 @ 6:35 pm
#17: My daughter graduated from LaGuardia having taken many AP courses — including AP physics. She went on to an Ivy League college (Penn) and was very well -prepared, both academically and in music (which is not her major). In fact when she signed up for private voice lessons recently at Penn they complimented her on how well she had been taught — that came from LaGuardia — and she wasn’t one of the “stars”. For kids who are especially gifted or interested in the sciences,there are AP and honors classes and if they don’t have the upper level courses they want at LaG, they can take them in College Now or at other high schools. One of my daughter’s classmates, went on to MIT.
Comment by Mom of LAG grad — February 6, 2010 @ 9:31 pm
My daughter got into LaGuardia Drama but was disappointed not to get into Beacon. Is there any way to know what her chances are of getting into Beacon in the main round? Would Beacon let our guidance counselor know where she stands?
Comment by Confused — February 7, 2010 @ 8:48 am
#19–Of course, I am not a NEST parent, and maybe it’s great. But you got a vibe from NEST that it was “unjoyous and austere”. I got the same vibe on the tour. My friends got the same vibe. I walked into the school thinking my daughter would definitely put it on her list, and left there crossing it off. The principal sounded extremely rigid and off-putting. The student I toured with said she enjoyed her classes, but when I asked her if she liked her teachers she essentially said “oh, no.” I’m sure there are some kids there who love it, but my gut instinct, and it sounds like yours also, is saying “no, don’t do it.” I’d send my kid to LAG in a heartbeat over NEST. Let’s just add that the commute is terrible for most people. Best wishes in your decision, though. I know it’s very difficult.
Comment by Deciding — February 7, 2010 @ 9:16 am
I would also be interested in hearing from parents re: #22 questions, essentially forfeiting our choices to try to get desired school in the ‘main’ round. Seems like a huge gamble not worth the it, but who knows? My DD was extremely disappointed not to get ELRO -which all her friends got, some not as academically high as she SOME with more then the 10+ absences / latenesses - when we had practically perfect attendance and NO lates?!- By the way, what is up with this 10+ policy? Why does it seem where from we sit, the kids with excessive absences/latemnesses so often seem to get their top choice. We noticed same even during the middle school process. I would think alot of spaces are going to open up at these highly regarded non-spec. schools, but then you are competing with an even bigger pool of people. And then there is probably no guarantee you would get it? Thank you again Deciding #23
Comment by pd_anxious — February 7, 2010 @ 10:19 am
Parents #22 and #24, if you child was accepted at a specialized school, think long and hard before letting her give up the spot for a chance at Beacon in the main round. That is just way too risky. Yes, spots will open up, but there are many, many other qualified applicants. Why not accept the specialized school offer, and if it really doesn’t work, consider applying again in tenth grade. That would be less risky. I am not a risk taker but I would never forfeit a place at a good school for an uncertain chance at another good school.
As for the absences - I saw the same phenomenon during middle school applications (in District 15). Kids with absences and latenesses, and less than stellar conduct, got offers from middle schools, when other kids with better records did not. The admissions process is not transparent, and the schools obviously exercise a lot of discretion in their acceptances. It is so aggravating. That is one of the benefits of the specialized high school admission process - it’s all just based on the numbers! Maybe it is not fair to kids who are not good test takers, or can’t afford a test prep class, but at least you know where you stand. It is a lot less upsetting than what can happen with the non-specialized schools, where a kid with good grades and good attendance, but who doesn’t interview well, or is somehow missing that “spark” or whatever, doesn’t get offers from the schools he or she is hoping to attend.
Comment by bkparent — February 7, 2010 @ 10:54 am
Another disappointed parent of a talented 8th grader who did not get into LaG drama (or spec exam school.) despite being kept there 9 hours, given positive feedback for audition, positive interview, photo taken, told by LAG PTA mom while waiting that all above factors were “good signs.” No acceptance. 95 avg. good attendance etc.
Does LaG offer 2nd round or wait list?
Comment by another mom — February 7, 2010 @ 12:15 pm
My son was accepted to both the Art and Instrumental Music studios at Laguardia, and the Film and Media studio at Frank Sinatra.
I feel his raw talent is art, and that might create a larger “pool” of career options. Also we could just get classic guitar lessons on the sides as opposed to all those various art classes plus supplies. But within the last 6 months he suddenly wants to play Flamenco guitar….WTF?!?!!? He went from playing Eric Clampton from YouTube to Paco DeLucia
Is Frank Sinatra more flexible for multi talent kids OR less because it is small? Are guitar kids happy at LaGuardia? Are there decent guitar options for Art studio kids….like after school clubs?
Comment by amazonbarbie — February 7, 2010 @ 7:34 pm
As to whether Sinatra is more flexible about kids taking classes in other disciplines, I asked that question last fall, during their open house. My daughter is a visual art kid, but I was always hoping she’d be able to take some courses in film or scenic design, because I know she’d be interested in those areas if she tried it. The people at Sinatra told me that she would not be allowed to study anything but visual art if she came into that studio.
I gather kids at Laguardia CAN take classes in other disciplines, but I’m less sure about that. I think I read this on their website. Oh, well. One more thing to ask them on Thursday night!
Still trying to find out everything I can, and still trying to leave my daughter alone, to let her decide in peace!
Comment by Lisa — February 7, 2010 @ 9:43 pm
So funny #27. My son (I’m #11 up above, deciding between Beacon & LaG) also is very into flamenco and classical guitar. Has been playing Villa Lobos etudes lately, so that makes me think LaG would be a great opp. Perhaps more opportunity to explore music in the school day. Looking forward to the Open House and talking to LaG parents. I wish we could re-visit Beacon, which we loved. We saw it in the Spring when we weren’t too focused on HS process.
Comment by Happy mom — February 7, 2010 @ 10:17 pm
Regarding guitar students deciding between LaGuardia and Frank Sinatra, my child (now at LAG) decided not to apply to Sinatra after the head of the music program there told us — during a group Q&A session — that guitar students would have to learn violin. My child did not want to learn violin, so he asked about sax (which he plays as a 2d instrument) and was told that he would have to play oboe, at Sinatra, instead. At that point, he and about 3 other guitars and their families walked out, and some had spent 90 minutes getting to Frank Sinatra.
Regarding opportunities to play instruments at LAG when a student is a visual arts student, we know of students who were accepted into both the Music Studio and the Arts Studio at LAG who were allowed to take technique classes with the instrumental majors. However, they were not allowed to participate in the ensembles. (This seems fair, actually.) So LAG does seem more flexible this way.
At LAG, there are also many clubs and electives where talented musicians, no matter what their studio, can articipate.
Comment by Queens Parent — February 7, 2010 @ 10:31 pm
Our daughter is very fortunate — she was accepted in Art at LAG, the only specialized school she applied to (she didn’t take the test), and also got accepted into her first choice of the non-specialized schools, Bard Queens. I’ve heard very mixed things about LAG academics; nothing much at all about how strong their Art program is (as compared to performing arts); and some very positive things about the academics and environment at Bard Queens. The teachers at Bard Q seem pretty amazing to us, and next year will be the third full one. The principal is quite inspiring, and it seems that most if not all of the programs will be fully functional in the 2010-11 school year; the school is now in a very nice building; and the location is convenient (we’re in Park Slope Brooklyn, 20 mins. on the G line).
Can anyone help with insight into LAG vs. Bard Queens; and Bard Manhattan vs. Bard Queens? My wife and I hope our daughter will have as broad a high school experience as possible, and in that respect we think Bard would be best; but we also want her to enjoy high school, and we’re wondering whether LAG might be a better combination. Any idea which is more favorably viewed by colleges? Don’t care if she goes to a name college, but I do want her to have as much choice as possible. Seems to us that college or even grad school are better times to start focusing in and studying art seriously, rather than high school.
All thoughts most welcome!
Comment by Bard Queens vs. LAG — February 7, 2010 @ 11:37 pm
31–I can’t speak to the LAG bit. Just chiming in how I agree Bard Queens teachers and principal seemed so amazing at the open houses. Although I would have been extremely happy to send my daughter to Bard Manhattan, Bard Queens was more inspiring, so we put it first, and she got in. Even though several of her friends got into Manhattan Bard, I still think we did the right thing. We live in Brooklyn, too.
Comment by Deciding — February 8, 2010 @ 7:00 am
31, I LOVED Bard Queens. It was the first school we toured, and we have a very good family friend in their first class who, along with her family, loves the school. I was so impressed with the principal and staff, and wished I had gone to a high school like that.
I was really flabbergasted at how much my daughter hated it. She hated the idea of doing so much college work in high school and told me she wanted to be a high school student in high school and a college student in college. Of course your situation and your child are different, but if I were you, I would discuss with my daughter the implications, good and bad, of doing all that college academic work in high school.
Best of luck. It’s a great place to be, having such wonderful choices.
Comment by Roberta — February 8, 2010 @ 7:13 am
Thanks for the insights, 32 and 33. We’ve heard that Bard isn’t actually as tough as its reputation — that it’s as good as it’s rep, but not as demanding. She’s been at Berkeley Carroll in Brooklyn, and that’s a very demanding place, so we’re not so concerned about the workload. My wife and I both have M.F.A.’s (hers is in fine art, mine’s in writing) and though we both have had some success, neither of us has been able to come remotely close to making a living in either art; offshoots, yes, but not the art itself. Don’t want to impose our experience on our kids, and I believe deeply in the great importance of art. But again, I keep thinking that LAG is kind of (very) glorified vocational high school, and that it can limit a kid’s appeal to colleges if she decides she doesn’t want to be mono-focused on art. Whereas Bard seems to be just a gift from heaven in terms of its combination of devoted teachers and commitment to teaching kids to really think — engaging their minds, rather than throwing things at them that they’re supposed to accept and memorize. But then — if she’s unhappy, who cares how “great” the school is. Tough to work this through, but thanks for your thoughts — and I welcome all others, especially comments on LAG’s studio art program (the school seems much more “famed” (pardon the joke) for the performing arts.
Comment by Bard Queens vs. LAG — February 8, 2010 @ 10:36 am
Dear #31, what ‘mixed’ things have you heard about LAG academics?Thanks
Comment by acc @ LAG instr. music — February 8, 2010 @ 11:06 am
#34 I hope my input is helpful. We are the parents of a student who has a choice of LAG, Bard Manhattan & Bklyn Latin. for the most part our child is vacillating btwn LAG & Bard. It is tough. She is currently attending a private school that has a very rigorous curriculum and she loves, just loves learning and being in an academic environment. She also has her heart and soul devoted to music/vocal. For our family it is kind of 6 in one hand 1/2 dz in the other as if she choses Bard we will continue to provide her with musical training during her non school hours as we have done previously. She is in a program that has musical training that is equal to or exceeds that which she will get at LAG.
My husband and I are well equipped to help her make this decision having had the experience of attending a performing arts high school in another part of the country, we fully understand the pros and cons. By the way we also have BFA’s. The last thing we wanted was for our child to take the same route. Funny how fate works! We compared the two and have faith beyond doubt that kids who attend LAG are by no means at an academic disadvantage. As a matter of fact, all arts high schools would do well to follow LAG academic model. They have developed a stellar. If a student wants it they can have it. If they want to attend that school and be mediocre and slide by, they can do that too. They can compete with the best of them. The question is what is going to work best for your child? What environment will they excel in?
Comment by Bklynmom — February 8, 2010 @ 11:17 am
Does anybody know what was the cut-off score for Brooklyn Tech? Thanks
Comment by Anonymous — February 8, 2010 @ 1:22 pm
Does anyone have any idea what was the lowest score admitted to Bronx Science?
Comment by manhattanMom — February 8, 2010 @ 1:51 pm
Schools like Bard, Brooklyn Science, and Stuyvesant are extremely tough to combine with a pre-college music program! There is simply no way to practice three-four-five hours a day when you have six hours of homework. If your kid is serious about pursuing music professionally, LaGuardia is probably your best shot, or Beacon, Millennium, or homeschooling. The academics won’t be the same, but your child will have a chance to breathe a little easier. I have two kids in pre-college programs, it’s a tough call.
Comment by stuy mom — February 8, 2010 @ 1:51 pm
We’re interested in comments and insight re: BARD MANHATTAN and BRONX SCIENCE - our daughter’s been accepted to both. She’s a very bright, disciplined girl who’s reserved, is interested in math & science and has previously attended small public schools in Manhattan. Travel isn’t a deciding factor as both schools are equally inconvenient, the question is the right fit. She’ll be attending tours at both schools but Bard’s doesn’t admit parents, so we’re looking for addt’l insider info about how the academics and environment at both schools stack up, especially the math/science programs.
Comment by Bard Manh & BxSci — February 8, 2010 @ 1:52 pm
To #40: If she is as passionate about Math and Science as you seem to indicate, then there is no question: Bronx. We did alot of research on schools and visited both Bard and Bronx multiple times. Bard is excellent, but really seems to emphasize a more humanities / liberal arts based curriculum, also with big emphasis on writing. Not to say they aren’t strong in math or science as well. Of course, i am not a parent of a child who attends either, but just seems obvious to me if Math / Science is #1 priority, then Bronx. On the other hand, if you think she would better flourish in a smaller environment, then probably Bard. Good Luck
Comment by manhattanMom — February 8, 2010 @ 2:07 pm
#35: the mixed stuff about LAG’s academics has been that some academic teachers are great, and some are the opposite. The focus (this is hearsay) is very strongly on the art form the child is accepted in and not as strongly on broader academics. So…I’d assume that in a conflict between studying A.P. Physics and getting ready for an art exhibit, the kids will feel more pull toward the exhibit, and deliberately or not, the school’s DNA will push more toward the exhibit as well. But beyond that, again, there’s the quality of teaching. I’ve heard it’s a fairly mixed faculty on the academic side.
BUT — if you haven’t yet, I suggest reading #36 to get a different view.
Comment by Bard Queens vs. LAG — February 8, 2010 @ 2:13 pm
Still wondering whether anyone on here has any experience or knowledge about the studio art program at LAG?
Comment by Bard Queens vs. LAG — February 8, 2010 @ 2:14 pm
Regarding the studio art program at LaGuardia — my child is in that program. The art instruction is excellent. However, I think you might be wise to go with Bard if you feel the teachers are really good there. I haven’t been too impressed with some of the academic teachers at LaGuardia. For the most part they are competent, but the instruction is very traditional and emphasizes tests more than I like. I wouldn’t say it’s like a vocational school at all, it’s just that I’ve never encountered a teacher I’d call “amazing” — just a range from very good down to one or two not-so-good.
There is no or very little homework for the studios so what you see your child doing at night is all academic homework, and there is plenty of it.
Depending on whether your child took regents in math, science, or social studies, they are able to advance pretty far with honors/AP classes, and there is the daVinci program for those interested in science. My child is in that program.
Comment by LAG parent — February 8, 2010 @ 4:13 pm
No. 17, I agree with No. 21 above re: LAG. My daugher transferred from Hunter to LAG dance (I was initially worried that this would make college applications harder), but she did very well, took a lot of honors and AP classes, and was accepted early decision to her top liberal arts college choice. My third daughter is now deciding between LAG and Stuyvesant, and I don’t know what she will do, but I’m not particularly worried about the academics at LAG.
Comment by OfCounsel — February 8, 2010 @ 4:54 pm
33, I’ll be honest, I totally agree with your daughter. Not a big fan of “pre-college”. Particularly for boys. They’re too immature. It would have been a disaster for me. More time to drink even more if I’d already taken the classes. Yikes
For what it is worth, my son’s art teacher first went to Stuyvesant and hated it, then switched to LAG and loved it. He didn’t think there was much difference with AP classes, and thought the competition was less destructive.
Regarding Frank Sinatra and guitar, my son had listed that way down his list after they told him at the audition that he would need to switch. I was proud of him that he pointed out to the judge that they had a guitarist in the jazz band at the open house. She told him that was after school program, and he told her they shouldn’t have included that in the open house. We listed it figuring it was a last resort, and he could switch studios once he got in.
Comment by amazonbarbie — February 8, 2010 @ 5:52 pm
I know of someone got into Bronx Science with a score of 514 - If anyone knows of a lower score that got into Bronx Science, can you advise? My daughter may want to try again next year and this would be helpful. Thanks
Comment by Brnx Sci Score — February 9, 2010 @ 10:35 am
My DD got in HS of American Studies,does anyone have comments about this school?Seems to me this school gets very little attention,anyone got kids in ?
Comment by Lisa H.A. — February 9, 2010 @ 11:06 am
To #47 - the cut-off scores for 9th graders trying to get in for 10th grade are different from the 8th grade cut-offs, generally significantly higher. On the other hand, kids have another year of learning and preparation under their belts when they take them.
Comment by anonymous — February 9, 2010 @ 11:14 am
To #48. HSAS is a really up-and-coming school. It is high on list of top schools in the country, put out by US News & World Report (or Newsweek). Small, seemingly excellent devoted staff of teachers, great for kids who love history, but it seemed like math and science were excellent, too. This school got more buzz than any of the specialized during our tours. It requires a lOT of work, though. And if you don’t live near Bronx, it’s a long commute.
Comment by Deciding Parent — February 9, 2010 @ 11:51 am
To #48 We did a ton of research and went to Lehman open house in fall and was SO impressed. I know of one parent whose son goes there and LOVES it. I was so impressed with faculty at open house. Humanities type school but also very impressed with Math / Science curriculum. You should def go to open house if you got in and strongly consider. Also appears to have strong - for a HS - Parent org. Good luck
Comment by anony — February 9, 2010 @ 12:08 pm
To #49, Thanks!, I really did not know this….
Comment by parent — February 9, 2010 @ 12:11 pm
We were accepted to LAG and I just read that their Open House has been rescheduled, from their website:
Due to severe weather conditions, the Open House has been rescheduled from Thursday, February 11, 2010, to Tuesday, February 23, from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. The decision is due this day!
Comment by parent — February 9, 2010 @ 4:28 pm
and , sorry, I must have missed this:
Students must declare their intent to their current school’s guidance counselor by Thursday, February 25, 2010.
Comment by parent — February 9, 2010 @ 4:29 pm
I got a robocall from Brooklyn Tech this morning to announce the postponement of the open house. I vaguely remember putting my phone number on the SHSAT registration form.
Comment by Roberta — February 9, 2010 @ 4:32 pm
THIS WAS SENT BY OUR MIDDLE SCHOOL. JUST OUTRAGEOUS>
It has come to our attention that Brooklyn Middle School students have been denied seats at Millennium high school during the first round of high school acceptances as a result of the DOE putting geographic barriers on the schools selection criteria blocking out all Brooklyn applicants. We are concerned that this will continue to happen, affecting the main round of high school selections if we as Brooklyn residents do not make our voices heard. We are teaming up with other middle schools in the district to start a letter writing/email campaign to challenge the DOE’s decision to block Brooklyn applicants from placement at Millennium HS. Please read the attached notice and send to as many politicians, councilman/woman and Department of Education employees as possible. No where in the high school directory is it listed that Millennium HS is only available to Manhattan residents. You may also contact our Community Education Council. They have a meeting scheduled for this Thursday February 11th at the MS 462Secondary School for Law 237 Seventh Avenue 7-9:00pm.
Comment by gammy — February 9, 2010 @ 5:18 pm
That is outrageous. When I went on the Millenniun tour I specifically asked about whether they accept Brooklyn kids because it says that they give preference to applicants who live below Houston Street. Millennium told me that they accept 20% of their students from Brooklyn. My daughter and I were not comfortable with those odds and that is why we put Millennium lower down on our preference list. How can the Board of Ed. make that kind of decision without telling anyone? Just another example of a total disregard for the kids they are supposed to serve.
Comment by cgmom — February 9, 2010 @ 5:26 pm
Here is a sample letter for the DOE, NYC Council, etc. PLEASE READ and SEND OUT
Dear
My family is shocked to hear that Millennium High School, located in lower Manhattan, will no longer be allowed to accept applications from middle school student’s residing in Brooklyn, limiting applications to those residing in Manhattan’s District 2. Millennium High School has been a wonderful option for Brooklyn students since it’s inception in 2002.
This announcement sets an unacceptable precedent, reducing choice for qualified Brooklyn residents and providing less services to our community. This policy decision is not consisted with the Department of Education’s move away from of “zoning” to “choice schools” that better match the student and the school.
For many downtown Brooklyn families, the commute time to Millennium is significantly less than to other high schools located in the borough. Furthermore, it is a policy that will separate families whose children already attend the school. This lack of choice is a sad loss that must be avoided.
We insist that neighborhoods located in North West Brooklyn, including Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, Carroll Gardens, Williamsburg, Fort Greene, Clinton Hill, Park Slope and Kensington remain in the Millennium catchment area.
Please call and let them know that your community deserves the educational opportunities afforded the families across the river. Please contact ______________________ at for more information.
Comment by gammy — February 9, 2010 @ 5:46 pm
To #48 … my daughter’s 1st choice was High School of American Studies, unfortunately she did not score high enough for an offer. If you don’t mind, what score did your daughter get?
Comment by Joyce — February 9, 2010 @ 10:03 pm
post #55: If you are a public school parent: NYC DOE already know about your kid: address, sex, phone number, contact info, SHSAT score, race, language spoken at home, Title I, etc. Remember: Your child was given a pre-printed admission letter for the SHSAT exam.
Comment by Anon — February 10, 2010 @ 3:34 am
Post #56, 57, 58 - Millennium HS
In the HS directory: Eligibility: Priority to student who live/attend school south of Houston St: Then to Manhattan residents: Then to NYC Residents.
From their website:
3. Can students who live outside of Manhattan or District 2 apply?
We accept students from all five boroughs, so you do not need to live in a certain borough or district to apply; however, we do give preference to students who live or attend school below Houston Street in Manhattan. In 2008, we had over 4,200 applications for 150 seats.
Comment by Anon — February 10, 2010 @ 3:42 am
My daughter, and many other kids, spent a good chunk of time writing her essay for Millennium and choosing the portfolio piece. I took time out of my day to bring it over to the school. We also took time to visit the school, and my daughter missed school to see it. The school took up space on our list of non-specialized schools. It is extremely offensive if the DOE, without a warning, just decided not to admit Brooklyn kids after all that. Shame on them. Is this really true? It was the closest school to our house! how dare they say we are not even local.
Comment by Peeved — February 10, 2010 @ 9:33 am
To #59, I’m not the poster to whom you directed your question about HSAS, but my younger child got into HSAS with a 588. From what I’ve been hearing this year, it’s possible that the bottom cutoff for HSAS exceeded that of Bronx Science. I know of a child who put HSAS first, but got into Bronx Science, her 2nd choice. Good luck to your daughter, I hope she finds happiness in whichever high school she decides to attend..
Comment by LaGuardia parent — February 10, 2010 @ 10:58 am
To #59, my son got into HSAS with a 549 score. I was very surprised because I thought the cut off would be higher due to the school’s increasing popularity. What I don’t understand is what the specialized schools do to fill spots when students turn them down (as we are doing) for other options. I guess they overbook and know exactly by how much to exceed their enrollment. It seems pretty tricky to me. Almost like guesswork, especially when your school’s status is changing, as HSAS’s is.
Comment by Deciding Parent — February 10, 2010 @ 11:11 am
Millennium arranges tours for schools in Brooklyn and encourages Brooklyn students to apply. It’s really startling, not to mention offensive, that they would suddenly reject all Brooklyn students. What a joke.
Comment by bkparent — February 10, 2010 @ 11:13 am
To #59: We are District 2. I attended a meeting by DOE on HS process and this question was raised. The rep said that this - i.e. certain students will in fact turn down offers to spec schools - is built into the computer matching algorithm used to place/select students. Also, in Aug/Sept they have another SHS exam for students who just moved into the city, so this is another way they fill up vacant seats. Then, 9th graders can take one more shot at the exam.
Comment by parent — February 10, 2010 @ 11:23 am
My son was accepted at HSMSE. We like its smaller size, but what have people heard about it?
Comment by Anonymous — February 10, 2010 @ 1:42 pm
We’re very happy with HSMSE. My son is a freshman. He loves it. Good teachers, challenging curriculum. I think it’s the SHSAT’s best kept secret.
Comment by Anonymous — February 10, 2010 @ 4:45 pm
Thank you for your responses and thanks for the well wishes #63. I believe my daughter will end up in the school that is best for her.
Comment by Joyce — February 11, 2010 @ 1:22 am
In response to #69: You’re welcome!
Comment by LaGuardia parent — February 11, 2010 @ 8:24 am
my daughter got Bx Sciense,LaG and Townsend Harris, she does like music,she got in for strings in Lag but also wants strong academics. does anyone know much about LaG academics compared to Bx science and Towmsend harris ?? also I have heard some negative things about the teachers bringing down the GPA at Townsend Harris so then it will backfire when she goes for college. we were very impressed with Bx science but how are the colllege guidance conselors and do they have enough time for so many kids ??. if anyone has some insights to these schools please let me know
Comment by aj — February 11, 2010 @ 1:45 pm
To any LAG parents: Do you have/know of any children in LAG’s Davince Scholars program and can comment? Do you know anything about selection criteria, curriculum? Thanks
Comment by pad — February 11, 2010 @ 2:23 pm
Most distressing news, the CEC meeting in Park Slope was cancelled for tonight, rescheduled for March 4. One week past the due date of HS resubmission applications.
This was on parentsofnyteens.com today:
The guidance counselor at my daughter’s school (New Voices) just
> > called me - she said she received a call from the guidance
> > counselor at Millenium this morning telling her that she should
> > advise NV students that their chances of getting into Millenium
> > were slim to none and, that they shouldn’t “waste” a spot on
> > their high school list with Millenium. My daughter’s guidance
> > counselor is giving out new high school forms to all the
> > students who ranked Millenium first, advising them to change
> > their school selection. The Millenium guidance counselor said
> > she was in tears yesterday because of what the DOE is doing.
> > She said Mill had chosen quite a few Brooklyn students in the
> > first round and the DOE didn’t give them ANY of their choices.
> > She said that the DOE assigned them 2 Brooklyn students, neither
> > of which were on their list.
Comment by gammy — February 11, 2010 @ 2:54 pm
To #72 regarding the DaVinci scholars program:
My daughter, a freshman, is in this program. They ask the students at the time of their placement testing in June to apply for the program. Apparently the criteria are test scores on the math section of the test, and math/science scores from middle school, plus a short essay.
My daughter was selected for the program, but so far there haven’t been any events or anything at all. I don’t know whether that is because my daughter doesn’t want to participate or because there haven’t been any events. What I was told about the program is that participants are offered research opportunities, internships, field trips, etc., related to science. It would be worth contacting the coordinator of the program to get the story.
Comment by LAG parent — February 11, 2010 @ 4:06 pm
My daughter was accepted for Stuy with a score of 564 as well as LAG in vocal. She is leaning towards LAG but I prefer Stuy for a number of reasons. She is strong in Maths and Science and wants to go into Medicine or Forensic Science. I am told LAG is strong in the academics but still has some doubts. anyone else faced with this choice? Any thoughts?
We actually went to LAG for the open house tonight to discover it was cancelled.
Comment by Joyd — February 11, 2010 @ 6:57 pm
75, the open house was postponed until 2/22. The new deadline to submit your acceptance is 2/25.
http://schools.nyc.gov/Home/Spotlight/eventcancellations021010.htm
Comment by Roberta — February 11, 2010 @ 7:16 pm
I know several kids in recent years who chose LAG over Stuyvesant or Bronx Science — academic kids — and have been happy there.
Comment by anonymous — February 11, 2010 @ 7:17 pm
#76: The LaGuardia Open House has been rescheduled for Tuesday, February 23.
Comment by LaGuardia parent — February 12, 2010 @ 8:37 am
I posted the results of a request for parents reviews of their kids high schools here :
http://parentsofnyteens.blogspot.com/ for your perusal.
I hope it helps you make an informed decision.
Comment by Rachel — February 12, 2010 @ 11:36 am
Thanks all.
Comment by joyd — February 12, 2010 @ 12:36 pm
My son got his HS results. He got Brooklyn Tech and Eleanor Roosevelt (ELR0). Both are good choices. We haven’t decide which way to go. ELRO is a smaller school with good academics, and BTech is a larger setting with good science and technology programs. Can anyone comment on the science program at ELRO? Thks.
Comment by HS_Mom — February 12, 2010 @ 1:33 pm
Does anyone have any knowledge yet of what the cutoff scores were for schools other than Stuy and Brooklyn Latin?
Comment by Hardworking mom — February 12, 2010 @ 1:52 pm
I heard from a good source (a test prep company that surveys its students to see how they fared) that American Studies and Bronx Science seem to be neck and neck this year with American Studies bottom cutoff around 512 and Bronx Science at 511 or lower. It’s not absolute proof, but probably fairly accurate.
Comment by LaGuardia parent — February 12, 2010 @ 4:19 pm
I don’t think the HSAS cutoff has overtaken BS just yet. The BS cutoff seems to be around 514 and I know of two kids who got into HSAS with 506.
Comment by Anonymous — February 12, 2010 @ 4:56 pm
does anyone have any insight regarding my question #71 regarding the 3 schools, i really would appreciate some info to make a informed decision, aj
Comment by aj — February 13, 2010 @ 12:25 am
#85, I have heard wonderful things about La Guardia academics. They have an honors track with lots of AP courses available. There are some reviews here:
http://parentsofnyteens.blogspot.com/
as well as on other insideschools.org blog threads and in the forum.
I was concerned about this too, but my daughter wasn’t offered a seat. Problem solved! She’s going to Brooklyn Tech.
Of course Townsend Harris has excellent academics. The arrogant principal of Stuy calls it “That School in Queens,” as if it was Voldemort, with a name that must not be said out loud.
Comment by Roberta — February 13, 2010 @ 8:44 am
#75 Stuy has a wonderful chorus in case she leans to a more academic track. She’ll probably figure out what she wants after the open houses.
Comment by stuy mom — February 13, 2010 @ 12:16 pm
My kid got HSMSE with a 498. It was his second choice behind HSAS. A good friend of his got HSAS with a 508. Both are amazing schools.
Comment by gofigure — February 13, 2010 @ 7:01 pm
My daughter was accepted at NEST+M and I am also looking to hear from families with kids in the high school. I have visited the school and done a fair amount of research on it and walked away with quite a different impression than the respondent earlier. The building is bright, sunny, and clean–at least to a visitor. The principal seems austere and isn’t charismatic at all, but intent on excellence.
I’ve heard the teachers are excellent & the curriculum is as challenging as a kid wants it to be. Without knowing kids in a school or having a kid in a school it’s hard to gauge. If anyone has first-hand experience, I’d like to hear from them.
Comment by sallyhelp — February 13, 2010 @ 9:34 pm
I just want to dispel the notion that Stuyvesant is the evil empire. C’mon folks, let’s keep it real. It’s not the right choice for every bright student, but it can be an amazing experience for a range of kids (as is the case with many of the other top schools discussed in this thread).
Stanley Teitel, the principal at Stuyvesant, has done a lot over the years to ratchet down the pressure on students. He’s the reason that there’s a cap on the amount of homework for freshman, that there’s a minimal homework policy for vacations and mandatory tutoring for any student who shows early signs of struggling by getting an “n” or “u” on their first making period’s report card (roughly 1st 6 weeks of the semester — only E, S, U or N given out for first marking period). He also abolished student rankings. Students know their own grades and averages and that’s it. If they want to know how they are doing in comparison to other students, they’ll have to ask other students themselves.
The English dep’t just opened a writing center to offer extra help to any student who wants some personal guidance on a writing assignment (in any subject) before handing it in for a grade. The Alumni Ass’n offers small grants to current students who need financial support to help them get through the school year (supplies for their home, a nice outfit for competitions in science, speech, etc.).
The work is very challenging, but that’s true of all af the specialized and top selective schools like Bard, Townsend Harris, Eleanor Roosevelt, Lab, etc. Small schools do offer more personalized attention; big schools offer more learnng opportunities through a huge variety of clubs and teams that cater to every type of a interest. There are plenty of opportunities for the creative student who is strong in math and science but doesn’t want to spend every waking second focusing on it. Stuy has several student newspapers, several bands and orchestras, puts on 2-3 plays during the year (in addition to SING) and has a choir. They also have a very strong speech and debate team.
Good luck to all the kids and their parents who are considering accepting a spot at at any of the schools discussed in this thread.
Comment by another stuy parent — February 14, 2010 @ 1:50 pm
NEST vs BROOKLYN TECH…in reading all the comments to date…I dont have a good gauge on NEST. We have only been talking to parents of middle school students and dont know what the high school is really all about. Tours of NEST were done when it was NOT in session, and no teachers present. Yes principal is a drip, some middle school parents very annoyed with her as replacement for last, well-loved principal…but still we have no idea on how well the school operates, the level of expertise of the teachers, if they are happy with new administration etc how the kids do there…Please please does anyone know of a parent with a current high school student there who can weigh in and really give us a description of classes? The one interesting thing about it is the same sex math and science classes for 9th graders. the languages (more than BARD I or II) etc…
Comment by Nest vs Tech or vica versa — February 16, 2010 @ 9:35 am
#91. Congrats on the choice between two terrific schools. There are some recent comments about NEST’s high school on the Insideschool’s profile page that address some of your concerns. Type in “NEST” in the Find a NYC School window. I’m going to reach out to a couple of parents I know with kids at NEST’s high school. Hopefully, they’ll chime in asap.
Perhaps parents can also cut an paste their comments made on this thread into the comments section on their schools’ respective profile pages. Since this thread is quite long, it will be easier for parents and students to review by school all the great info shared in this thread, which will be an immense help for the current 7th graders (including my daughter) who are bracing themselves for high school mania next fall.
Also as a parent of a 10th grader in a large specialized high school, my one bit of advice to those deciding between large and small schools is that high school is as much, if not more about what your child is inspired to do outside of class than what’s offered in class. Since everyone seems to be choosing between schools with stellar academics, try to help your child assess which school offers the kind of environment and community that he/she wants to be in until 5 - 6 p.m. most days. Otherwise, it will be a very long four years. Good luck.
Comment by Laura — February 16, 2010 @ 11:50 am
Oops, I meant to say copy and paste their comments on to the profile page — can’t “cut” them from here.
Comment by Laura — February 16, 2010 @ 11:52 am
Thank for your comments, #90.
To #75: my son (now a junior) chose Stuyvesant over LAG (piano or theater tech).
Also a math/science person, in addition to being an advanced pianist.
Is enjoying the Math team, Intel, among other opportunities.
Hears from friends attending LAG that they have less homework, however.
Still very happy with his decision.
Best of luck to everyone!
Comment by another stuy mom — February 16, 2010 @ 2:15 pm
Other than the benefits of being a more diverse school versus Stuyvesant, does anyone know anything about Midwood’s Med-Sci program? Is it a pressure cooker like the specialized HS? How does it compare to Brooklyn Tech, the only other good school in the borough?
Comment by FurtG — February 19, 2010 @ 2:20 pm
You sound like you are school shopping for a current 7th grader. If so, please be aware that there are other excellent choices in Brooklyn, aside from Midwood and Brooklyn Tech. Other good choices would include Leon Goldstein HS for the Sciences, Edward Murrow, and Brooklyn Latin (a new specialized HS). There are also a few new schools that show promise, such as STAR, which is an Early College HS affiliated with Brooklyn College.
Comment by Queens Parent — February 19, 2010 @ 4:13 pm
I visited both, but have a child at neither, so that doesn’t make me an expert. However . . . the facilities at Brooklyn Tech are amazing. I didn’t see anything comparable at Midwood. But Midwood has Intel finalists, and great internships that match kids with scientists. Do you have to choose between the two, or are you being theoretical? I would guess that Midwood cannot be the pressure cooker that Stuyvesant is, because all the kids are not top students–many are there because they are zoned for it. I’d also imagine that because of geography, Midwood is more insular.
Comment by Peeved — February 19, 2010 @ 9:28 pm
not really Peeved, that was from an old post
Comment by just fine — February 19, 2010 @ 9:29 pm
My child has to choose between Midwood and a specialized HS. Through the Med Sci program at Midwood, with 300 kids, my child wouldn’t have to swim through so many to rise to the top. I also like that it’s diverse like the real world. Also, you don’t have to compete internally at the end of the Sophomore year to be in the Biology Major as you have to do at Tech. When one is admitted to Midwood’s program, you’re in as a freshman and they begin to tailor classes around it — ie., for the City Art requirement, Midwood MedSci takes Art in Anatomy. And the matching children with scientists at Midwood sounds great, but that seems to be only for the Research track within Med-Sci, not the other tracks. (I don’t think there’s a limitation in how many of the 300 can take a certain track, by the way)
The science labs in the Midwood’s science annex building appear to be state-of-the-art; I can’t imagine what else one would need that the specialized would have.
But I was wondering if Midwood students do as well on SAT’s, scholarships. Do they feel prepared for science programs in colleges?
And as an aside, is there any bullying in these schools, physical or emotional? I know at the Specialized, the children torture themselves within, but is there any extreme behavior at any of these schools that I should be aware of before we decide next week?
Comment by FurtG — February 20, 2010 @ 7:41 am
99, we put Midwood pretty high on our list–we both liked it a lot. I especially appreciated the diversity there, and it seemed during the tour that the various programs under which students are admitted do not result in an elite academy plus a neighborhood school–they encourage interaction among the students and high achieving students could move up regardless of how they were admitted. We have some friends, a junior and a senior, who have been very happy there. The junior had put it last on her list but it turned out to be a great school for her.
My daughter is very happy to be going to Brooklyn Tech. Again, we have friends there who work very hard and love the school. Two of our friends are sisters, one of whom graduated 2 years ago, the other is a senior now. I think some of the management difficulties the first one faced (like arranging her schedule so she could participate in band) are better now at Tech than they used to be.
I haven’t heard anything about bullying in either school. I imagine that Midwood could potentially have a bigger problem because of its diversity, but during the tour it looked like they had a good handle on what was going on with the students. No personal experience but neither of our friends has mentioned any problems with bullying at Midwood. Both are Chinese girls.
Comment by Roberta — February 20, 2010 @ 12:35 pm
I’m starved for info about Brooklyn Tech. How can a school that big possibly maintain quality? Anyone out there have experience with it?
Comment by Steve — February 20, 2010 @ 3:55 pm
Steve, did you go on the Brooklyn Tech tour and/or open house? Our tour was conducted by the chairman (dean?) of the math department and he was so impressive. We got to see a lot of classrooms with great stuff going on. And at the open house there were many, many teachers and students in every department to talk to potential students and their families. I hope the open house on Monday evening is helpful.
Comment by Roberta — February 21, 2010 @ 10:06 am
To Steve: I remember feeling that way when my son was an 8th grader. It’s a big transition from middle school to high school. In the case of the specialized high schools, keep in mind that they have been successful for a long time, so they know what they are doing. Definitely attend an open house. Best of luck.
Comment by another stuy mom — February 21, 2010 @ 10:40 am
My son got his HS results. He is accepted into Brooklyn Tech and NEST+m. He is already in NEST+m at 8th grade. Both are good choices. We haven’t decided which way to go. NEST+m is a smaller school with good academics, and BTech is a larger setting with good science and technology programs. Can anyone help me to take a decision, please? Thanks.
Comment by C Dutta — February 21, 2010 @ 6:37 pm
To #104 Our daughter was accepted at both Nest and LAG. We are leaning toward LAG, but would really appreciate hearing from an insider at Nest, esp with regard to Math and Science programs? What about the environment at Nest? Is there a real sense of community among the kids? Are the kids happy to be there? Are they anxious to flee after 8th grade? It seems very austere when I have visited so I would really appreciate an insiders view. Thanks and Good Luck to you
Comment by pad — February 22, 2010 @ 12:46 pm
Does anybody know what was the cut-off score for Brooklyn Tech? We asked this question before and nobody seems to have an answer although there are a lot of posts talking about kids who got accepted into Tech.
Comment by Anonymous — February 22, 2010 @ 4:00 pm
My child is a 9th grader at Midwood in the Med Sci program. After some initial concern about the size of the school and the fact that he is not particularly outgoing, he has become quite comfortable. The workload is a fair–most nights, he definitely has homework from most teachers. The school has a general test giving schedule that most teachers seem to follow–each department has a day of the week that they give tests–Science on Monday, Math on Tuesday, etc. Simple, but it seems to prevent the “I have three tests tomorrow!!” panic.
He has developed relationships with his teachers and they know who he is. There is good music instruction offerings, especially if your child has prior knowledge. The Athletics program is unbelievable and depending on the sport, you do not have to be a tremendously skilled athlete to participate–kids really develop a connection with their teammates and coaches–this is probably one of the best parts of the school.
Regarding the comment that the school may be insular–it is exactly the opposite. The students seem to thrive from the diversity.
Comment by Anonymous — February 23, 2010 @ 11:43 am
My son is a freshman at Brooklyn Tech. One of the biggest surprises to me is that the size doesn’t seem to be as big an issue as I thought it would be. (He came from a very small middle school.) Their system of “clusters” that group 100 or so kids together really works, because he sees a lot of the same kids and has definitely made friends. The academics are challenging but he’s getting a hang of it. I think they really lay it on the freshman at first so that they feel like “This is high school now, the standards are high, and it counts!” That said, the teachers are approachable and, for the most part, top-notch. My son can email his teachers anytime and sometimes they reply within the hour! Good luck all!
Comment by Bklynmom — February 23, 2010 @ 1:05 pm