Cobble Hill School of American Studies

Once a struggling school, Cobble Hill School of American Studies has turned the corner. Although many students come into the school below grade level, about three-quarters graduate on time and almost no one drops outs. The turnaround has come under Anna Maria Mule who has been principal since 2010.

Cobble Hill offers two programs: one on law and government; the other on biomedicine and health careers. Course offerings include several law classes, Syracuse University courses in cybersecurity and science research, and Advanced Placement classes including biology and U.S history.

Students in a law class learn to cross examine, while a forensic science class focuses on analyzing data and conducting scientific investigations, according to an educator who visited the school for the Department of Education. Teachers stress projects and student collaboration.

Attendance remains a struggle. More than half the students miss at least a month of school each year.

Although the school is fairly small, it offers a number of extracurricular activities, including an Inside Broadway theater workshop and various internships. There are no PSAL sports for girls, however. Students in need of extra help may attend after school tutoring or Saturday classes. A partnership with Wediko Children’s Services enables Cobble Hill to provide supports, including individual and group counselling, to students and their families.

Special education: Cobble Hill has team teaching classes with a mix of general and special education students.

Admission: Students may apply to either the biomedical or law program. Both select students using the educational option method designed to admit students with a range of academic abilities. Brooklyn residents have priority and account for more than 90 percent of students, but students from throughout the city may apply. Both programs accept some incoming 10th graders. (Gail Robinson, from DOE records, November 2018)