I.S. 117 Joseph H. Wade

I.S. 117 Joseph H. Wade, also known as The Wade Academies MS 117X, is a middle school (grades 6-8) in the Bronx that functions as a Community School. It partners with The Community Association for Progressive Dominicans (ACDP) to provide extensive support services, including academic and mentorship programs, college trips, opportunities for high school Regents credits, a monthly food pantry, health and wellness workshops, and on-site dental and immigration services. The school serves a diverse student body with significant populations of English Language Learners and students with disabilities, offering various bilingual and ESL programs. Academically, the school's ELA proficiency (30%) and Math proficiency (19%) are well below citywide averages, and external reports indicate many students enter below grade level and few are fully prepared for high school upon leaving. The percentage of students taking accelerated coursework (29%) is around the citywide median. Parents express overwhelmingly positive sentiment in surveys, with high praise for the staff and a welcoming atmosphere. However, student surveys reveal concerns regarding safety and climate, with a notable percentage of students reporting experiences with bullying, physical fights, and gang activity, despite many feeling safe in common areas and with safety agents. The school is structured into four academies—New Horizons, World Culture, Social Justice, and College and Career Explorations—to provide focused support, and offers programs in instrumental music, science, math, visual arts, and theater.