J.H.S. 234 Arthur W. Cunningham

Located in a cul-de-sac across from an elementary school, JHS 234 Arthur Cunningham is one of New York City’s largest middle schools and one of its most culturally diverse, serving students from more than 30 countries.

Cunningham stresses math, science and technology, with a double period of math once a week, enrichment offerings in robotics and engineering, and a student MOUSE squad that repairs the school's computers. Arts are also key as students may take dance, music, theater and visual arts from seven certified arts teachers. 

Starting in 6th grade, children are divided into three groups: Center for Intellectually Gifted (CIG), a District 22 program for academically advanced students; Cunningham’s own honors program; and general classes. Eighth graders in the advanced classes take three regents exams and the Spanish proficiency test. 

The school has generally good tests scores and a Department of Education report called the Quality Review praised teachers for adjusting tasks to the individual student and engaging children at all academic levels. Many students in a DOE survey, though, said teachers need to do more to help those who are behind, have trouble with a topic or simply need more support. The school has acknowledged this and indicated it is working to address it according to the Comprehensive Educational Plan (CEP).

Cunningham is a big school, with crowded hallways and large classes. While students feel safe in classrooms, some said in a Department of Education survey that they do not feel safe in common areas, and there have been reports of problems in the cafeteria, where as many as 500 students may be at a given time. 

Cunningham offers preparation for the Specialized High Schools Admission Test and sends many students to Brooklyn Tech, as well as to other selective high schools in Brooklyn and beyond. There is a robust after school program including various sports, chess and math teams, a modern rock band, theater and dance.

In 2018, Tami Flynn became principal, replacing Susan Schaeffer who had been at Cunningham in various capacities for more than 30 years.

Special education: There are team-teaching and self-contained classes.

Admissions: Fifth graders from throughout District 22 may apply to the CIG program and are selected by DOE based on 4th grade test scores and report card. Students from the Cunningham zone have priority for admission to the school’s general program. Students from elsewhere in District 22 may apply and are randomly selected. (Gail Robinson, information provided by the school and web reports, March 2019)