Academy For Personal Leadership And Excellence

The Academy For Personal Leadership And Excellence, also known as MS 363, is a Bronx public school serving grades 6-8, which is expanding to include kindergarten in September 2024, becoming a PS/MS 363. The school serves a large and diverse student body, with a high percentage of students qualifying for economic need and receiving support for English language learning and special education. While state test scores in ELA and Math are below citywide averages, the school has a history of helping students, particularly those with special needs or learning English, improve their performance levels. The school is noted for fostering a safe and respectful environment and building trust among staff. Parent survey responses indicate very high satisfaction with the school's relationships with families. Student surveys show that a majority feel safe in hallways and bathrooms, and perceive safety agents positively. However, a significant portion of students report issues with bullying and physical fights. The school offers a variety of programs with specialty focuses including athletics, instrumental music, science, math, theater, and visual arts. It also boasts facilities such as a renovated swimming pool, a dance room, a fitness center, and a playground with basketball hoops. The school partners with local health and counseling services to provide comprehensive student support.