Red Hook Neighborhood School

Red Hook Neighborhood School (DBN 15K676) is currently transitioning to become New York Harbor Middle School, a dedicated middle school for grades 6-8, phasing out its elementary grades. The school is notably small, with an enrollment of 169 students, fostering a close-knit environment. Parents express overwhelmingly positive sentiment, reporting high satisfaction with the education and a supportive atmosphere. The school is recognized for its strong attendance rate, which is well above the citywide median, and a lower-than-average chronic absenteeism rate. Academically, the school's proficiency rates in ELA and Math are around the citywide median, reflecting a typical performance level for its elementary grades during the transition. A distinctive feature is its very high percentage of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), significantly above the citywide maximum. The curriculum emphasizes place-based projects and weekly field trips, leveraging its Red Hook location and focusing on the surrounding harbor. Students engage in unique electives such as the Harbor News team, Brooklyn Boatworks, and Hydroponic Gardening, alongside a robust after-school program offering activities like cooking, dance, and sports. While some feedback suggests a rigorous academic focus, the school's overall approach highlights authentic problem-solving and civic engagement. The school also benefits from a school-based clinic in partnership with NYU Langone and features a renovated playground.