M.S. 035 Stephen Decatur

Stephen Decatur Middle School 35, located in Brooklyn's historic Stuyvesant Heights, is a small and vibrant middle school serving grades 6-8. It is recognized as a Magnet School of Leadership, Exploration, and the Arts, and has been nationally acknowledged as a 2025 Top Magnet School of Excellence and a New and Emerging Magnet School of Merit. The school is also an International Baccalaureate (IB) Candidate School, emphasizing rigorous academics, project-based learning, and a holistic approach to student success. Academically, the school demonstrates strong performance in English Language Arts, with proficiency rates at the 75th percentile citywide. Math proficiency is above the citywide median, and the share of students taking accelerated coursework is also above average. The school consistently outperforms its district and the state in proficiency rates across various subjects. Parents and students consistently report a positive and supportive environment. The school receives "Excellent" ratings for instruction, safety, and relationships with families, with nearly all parents expressing positive sentiment in surveys. Students report feeling safe and that conflicts are resolved fairly. The school is known for its dedicated principal and staff who foster a safe and supportive atmosphere where teachers help students catch up. The school offers a variety of arts programs, including visual arts and dance, alongside opportunities in athletics and science/math.