M.S. 246 Walt Whitman

MS 246 Walt Whitman is a small middle school in the heart of Flatbush. The school aims to give students opportunities to see themselves in new roles and settings — from working in a science lab to meeting professionals who share their backgrounds. That focus carries into its academics, arts, leadership and community programs. About one-third of students are learning English, with Spanish and Haitian-Creole among the most common home languages.

During lessons, students are increasingly expected to explain their thinking, ask questions, and work through problems with one another, rather than simply listen to a talk. Desks are arranged in groups so teens can talk and work together. 

Teachers aim to build academic learning around projects and real-world issues. This approach shows up across subjects. In civics, students examine issues such as gun violence or housing insecurity and discuss them with local officials. In science, they investigate a “diamond heist” by analyzing an unknown liquid and using evidence to determine what it contains. In math, students may use digital tools to explore concepts such as 3D shapes from different angles. 

Many students enter sixth grade well below grade level in reading and math, and attendance is a challenge, with more than one-third missing a month or more of school. The school provides academic support for students who need extra help, including its Saturday Academy with small-group instruction. For students ready for more advanced work, the school offers classes that introduce high-school-level material.

Students can participate in debate, student government, podcasting, financial literacy, and architecture. Arts in Blue brings professional artists into the school for dance, music, and visual arts. Geek Rules offers computer activities. Annual Girls and Boys Empowerment seminars connect students with professionals for mentorship. Seventh graders can also participate in a Weill Cornell program focused on childhood cancer education and research.

Field trips are important, particularly in STEM. They visit Pfizer’s Hudson Yards headquarters for lab work in microbiology, as well as Liberty Science Center for experiments and interactive exhibits. Other trips have included the African American Museum and the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.

The school uses peer mediation, restorative circles and mentoring to help students handle conflicts and build stronger relationships. The guidance team connects students and families with mental-health services. Students also take part in community service. 

Walt Whitman provides practical support to families who need it. The school works with The Campaign Against Hunger to support families with free groceries and other basic necessities, including clothing.

For families who speak languages other than English, several bilingual teachers and staff speak Haitian-Creole, Spanish, French, Bengali or Arabic. The school also offers services such as legal assistance and “Know Your Rights” workshops.

After-school options include sports, performing arts, academic support and enrichment. The Broadway Jr. program gives students the chance to perform a full musical production.

The school shares its building with Success Academy Ditmas Park Charter Middle School, including the cafeteria, auditorium and small gyms. There is a community garden on site.

School leaders say scheduling or coordinating use of common spaces can be challenging. (Lydie Raschka, interview and official reports, September 2026)