A previous version of this story ran in October 2019. It has been updated with new information for October 2020. While the Department of Education has yet to finalize policies for the Fall 2020 admissions cycle, schools that typically screen for academic performance may have different admissions criteria this year because of COVID-19

All Bronx middle schools are open to students borough-wide. Here's our list of best bets for middle schools in the Bronx. Also consider schools that accept children from anywhere in the city. This list does not include charter schools, which have a separate admissions process.

District 7

MS/HS 223, Laboratory School for Finance and Technology (grades 6-12), Longwood
Why we picked it: Strong leadership, engaging instruction and lots of enrichment opportunities in STEM; a welcoming environment.

Academy of Applied Mathematics and Technology (grades 6-8), Mott Haven
Why we picked it: Safe and supportive environment, nice range of activities and good at raising the achievement of those arriving with weak skills.

Hostos-Lincoln Academy of Science (grades 6-12), Mott Haven
Why we picked it: Students tackle demanding work and those who stay for high school make good progress.

Urban Assembly Bronx Academy of Letters (grades 6-12), Mott Haven
Why we picked it: Nurturing school with strong emphasis on research and writing.

District 8

MS 101, The Edward R. Byrne School (grades 6-8), Throgs Neck
Why we picked it: Nice environment with advanced classes for top students and lots of extra help for kids who need it.

School for Inquiry and Social Justice (grades 6-8), Soundview
Why we picked it: Solid achievement and good support for students learning English.

Urban Institute of Mathematics (grades 6-8), Throgs Neck
Why we picked it: Strong instruction and an extended school day allowing for special activities such a debate team, web-design, digital arts and computer coding.

District 9

MS/HS 327, Comprehensive Model School Project (grades 6-12), Concourse
Why we picked it: A community school with a solid record of achievement thanks to rigorous academics and a welcoming environment.

Bronx School for Law, Government and Justiice (grades 6-12), Concourse
Why we picked it: Modern facility and excellent debate program.

Bronx School for Medical Science (grades 6-12), Claremont Village
Why we picked it: Strong attendance and students are well-prepared for high school.

Eagle Academy for Young Men (grades 6-12), Tremont
Why we picked it: Male teachers are mentors and role models for boys

Knowledge and Power Preparatory Academy/KAPPA, (grades 6-8), Belmont
Why we picked it: A small school with steady leadership and happy teachers. Many 8th-graders earn high school credit.

Mott Hall III (grades 6-8), Morrisania
Why we picked it: A nurturing school with steady leadership and strong instruction.

Science and Technology Academy: A Mott Hall School (grades 6-8), Concourse
Why we picked it: Offers engaging instruction and imaginative classes as part of the International Baccalaureate curriculum.

Urban Assembly School for Applied Math and Science (grades 6-12), Claremont village
Why we picked it: Strong and engaging math and science instruction; most 8th-graders earn high school credit.

Young Women’s Leadership School of the Bronx (grades 6-12), Tremont
Why we picked it: Part of a successful network of all-girl schools.

District 10

PS/MS 15, Institute for Environmental Learning (grades K-8), Unversity Heights
Why we picked it: Strong attendance and good support for high school admissions.

Jonas Bronck Academy (grades 6-8), Fordham
Why we picked it: Imaginative curriculum with strong emphasis on research and writing.

District 11

Cornerstone Academy for Social Action (grades 6-8), Eastchester
Why we picked it: Strong sense of community and engaging instruction with an emphasis on S.T.E.A.M.

Leaders of Tomorrow MS 370 (grades 6-8), Williamsbridge
Why we picked it: A new school with strong leadership created out of the merge of two, small schools; lots of programs and support for students.

District 12

I.S. 190, E.S.M.T. (grades 6-8), Morrisania
Why we picked it: Students are well-prepared for high school; many 8th-graders earn high school credit.

Bronx Latin (grades 6-12), Longwood
Why we picked it: High expectations and inspiring atmosphere; many 8th-graders earn high school credit.

Mott Hall V (grades 6-12), Parkchester
Why we picked it: Modern, colorful building; well-funded college office.

Did we miss any? Please share your picks in the comments section.