East Bronx Academy for the Future

At East Bronx Academy for the Future (EBA), a combined middle and high school, lessons are infused with lots of hands-on projects and technology.

Founded in 2004 by Principal Sarah Scrogin, EBA is housed in contemporary building located in a congested, commercial neighborhood. Elevated train tracks pass within feet of the school's soundproof windows. Inside, modern science labs and clean, brightly-lit hallways make for a pleasant learning space. Facilities include a library, dining hall, and multi-purpose room where physical education is held. There is no gymnasium. The school does not share the building with any other schools.

Many students begin school performing below grade level and the school's overall graduation and college readiness rates lag behind the citywide average. One positive exception: most English language learners graduate on-time and at rate that's better than the citywide average.

The school has adopted a restorative justice program, which aims to minimize suspension and promote positive behavior among students through conversation, reflection and corrective action. In addition to an advisory program that helps keep students on track with their academics, teachers lead “circles,” which are small student groups that focus on building trust and addressing problems before they escalate.

East Bronx Academy gets support from Phipps Neighborhoods, a community organization that provides after-school activities for students in all grades and family support services.

Hgh school students may participate in PSAL sports.

SPECIAL EDUCATION: The school offers ICT (integrated co-teaching) and self-contained classes. There are also dedicated English classes for English language learners.

ADMISSIONS: The middle school is open to District 12 students and residents. For high school, East Bronx Academy 8th-graders are guaranteed admission. For others, priority goes to Bronx students who are admitted according to the educational option formula, which is designed to admit a mix of low-, average- and high-achieving students. (Laura Zingmond, web reports, December 2018)