Performing Arts has a leadership and staff that is committed to giving its students a chance to shine in the arts. Students put on full-scale plays, musicals and dance performances with the help of working Broadway artists. Still, the building limits the artistic possibilities, and its East New York location presents challenges. Attendance also needs improvement.

Principal Reginald Richardson was a long-time teacher and assistant principal at other city performing arts schools before taking over in the spring of 2010 after two years of rocky leadership changes. He has greatly improved morale, several teachers said, and has set up mentor and training programs. “The discipline and empathy you can learn from the arts really helps create a positive school culture,” said Richardson, who was trained as a juvenile defense attorney. “You connect to your own humanity and through that you know what can affect others and how they feel.”

Before Richardson arrived, the school had never put on a full-fledged performance, but in the spring of 2012 they were busily preparing for production of "Dream Girls," directed by a former Broadway cast member. There is also a major dance concert, a play and smaller productions and talent shows throughout the year.

Students can choose from programs in dance, drama, vocal music, instrumental music, and arts technology, which includes stage design and digital photography.

Richardson secured City Council funding to build a black box theater, but the building layout and limited resources means there is little sound and lighting equipment and no real stage for large performances. “We are trying to make it an arts-friendly space,” said Richardson, who is hoping to transform an empty lot next door.

Academic classes we visited were relaxed and students were mostly attentive. High-achieving students can take classes at Medgar Evers college, and the school offers AP chemistry, biology and calculus.

Located in the highest crime precinct in the city, the schools on the Jefferson campus have worked with the NYPD to create a safe passageway to and from the school. The same problems that exist in the neighborhood and surrounding housing projects seep into the school. “We are part of an ecosystem,” said Richardson. “In the context of that, I think we do a fabulous job.”

All students must pass through metal detectors. Guards were courteous the day we visited, but security is tight and the process can be intimidating. Still, the vibe inside the school is warm and welcoming. Students say that they feel safe in the school, and guidance counselors and teachers go the extra mile. “Our students need more than academics,” said teacher Terry Clifton, who won a chancellor’s award for best city teacher. “They need emotional and social support, and they need know what education can do for you.”

The school gets assistance from the nonprofit group Counseling in Schools. Richardson also launched a Young Men’s Leadership group, which gives extra support and after-school activities.

College admissions: There is a dedicated college advisor who leads a college prep class every week. There is also SAT prep for juniors and seniors. Graduates mostly attend CUNY and SUNY schools.

Special education: There are Integrated Co-teaching classes with two teachers. There are also small classes for students with specific issues, which act as a bridge for students coming from self-contained classrooms.

After school: The campus hums after school ends. There are numerous sports teams shared with other schools in Jefferson, lots of rehearsals, choir, stage design, step dance and chess.

Admissions:  Students may apply to three programs: dance, music or theater. There are no auditions and priority goes to Brooklyn students who attend an information session. (Meredith Kolodner, May 2012)