Cobble Hill High School, a mid-sized school located in the heart of brownstone Brooklyn, has faced its share of struggles, but seems to be evolving into a close-knit community of educators and administrators focused on a single goal: preparing kids for college. On our visit, we saw students who seemed happy and engaged, and a calm atmosphere. Security staff have cordial, personal relationships with many students, judging by the good-natured banter and affection we observed on our visit. The faculty and students have a shared sense of purpose, and, after a rocky couple of years, this struggling school appears to be on the upswing.

"This school did not adequately prepare me for the realities of the world of college education. What happened to the physics and advanced mathematics courses? This system is about fulfilling a... read more