J.H.S. 144 Michelangelo

Michelangelo Junior High School, JHS 144 is a well-run neighborhood school that offers students a nice array of arts instruction such as band, drama and dance.

The arts are supported through a partnership with Exploring the Arts foundation, founded by singer Tony Bennett. Students may also participate in range of sports and other activities such as chess.

In its most recent Quality Review, JHS 144 received high marks for developing a strong curriculum. Nearly all students say they are learning a lot in their classes, based on their responses to the annual NYC School Survey.

The school participates in the Middle School Quality Initiative (MSQI), the city’s program designed to boost students’ reading levels with a longer school day, activities such as debate and extra supports like after-school tutoring.  

Some challenges persist: Test scores fall below the district and citywide average, though the school does a good job of helping students gain ground from where they started in 6th grade. Attendance also needs to improve; a substantial number of students miss at least a month of school.

Students up to the challenge may earn high school credit by taking the Regents exam in algebra.

JHS 144 shares a building with Pelham Gardens Middle School and the Bronx Charter School for Better Learning II.

ADMISSIONS: Open to District 11 students with priority to those living in its zone. The school often only has space for zoned students. (Laura Zingmond, web reports, July 2019)