I.S. 141 - The Steinway

Located in northern Astoria, IS 141 is a large, diverse middle school with challenging academics and a supportive environment. Students hail from Eastern Europe, South Asia, and Latin America, and dozens of languages are spoken in the building.

More than half the students leave IS 141 with high school credit, and 8th-graders may take algebra and Living Environment. A notable partnership with American Airlines teaches students how their learning in science and technology is applicable to real-world work, according to the school’s Comprehensive Educational Plan (CEP).

The school also offers dance, theater and music classes, as well as a computer art class that teaches the use of software like Photoshop, I-Movie and coding. Sports include volleyball and Mighty Milers, a running club, according to the Middle School Directory .

To make a large school seem smaller, IS 141 is divided into three academies, each with its own assistant principal, dean, and guidance counselor. Most students say there is at least one adult they can trust and confide in, according to school surveys.

Vanessa Williams, formerly an assistant principal, became principal in 2018.

Students participate in charitable fundraisers, helping causes like Operation Santa and Pennies for Patients, according to the CEP. The school also hosts events like Back to School Night, Multicultural Fair, Sounds of the Season Holiday Show, Williams Shakespeare Poetry Slam, Awards Night Ceremonies and Spring Arts Showcase to include families in the school community and showcase student talent.

Admissions: Students who live in the attendance zone are guaranteed admission. District 30 students may also apply, with priority to those who attend and sign in at an admissions event.  (Melanie Quiroz, web reports and DOE data, April 2019)