J.H.S. 144 Michelangelo

J.H.S. 144 Michelangelo is a middle school in the Bronx known for fostering academic excellence and personal growth through a rigorous curriculum. The school emphasizes preparing students for the academic demands of high school, with a notably high percentage of accelerated coursework (69%), which is well above the citywide median. While ELA and Math proficiency rates (47% and 42% respectively) are below the citywide median, they remain above the 25th percentile. The school receives excellent ratings for instruction and its relationships with families, with parents consistently reporting high satisfaction and teachers expressing strong support for the school. Students benefit from a wide array of arts instruction, including band, drama, and dance, supported by a partnership with the Exploring the Arts foundation. The school offers over 20 student clubs and provides personalized guidance for high school admissions, with graduates gaining acceptance into specialized high schools. However, student surveys indicate concerns regarding the frequency of bullying and physical fights, despite some parents describing a safe and clean environment.