School of Performing Arts

I.S. 217, the School of Performing Arts, is a small middle school in the Bronx serving grades 6-8, known for its focus on dance, music, choir, and visual arts programming. The school offers dance classes through a partnership with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Academically, the school faces challenges, with ELA and Math proficiency rates falling below the citywide 25th percentile, and a very low rate of accelerated coursework. While relationships with families are rated as "Excellent" and parent surveys show overwhelmingly positive feedback, the school's instruction and performance rating is "Fair." Safety and school climate are rated "Needs Improvement," with student surveys indicating concerns about feeling safe and a perception of frequent bullying and physical altercations. The school utilizes project-based learning and a Community Schools partnership to provide cultural field trips. It serves a student body with high economic need, a notable percentage of English Language Learners, and students with IEPs. Some reports suggest a challenging work environment for staff.