Academy for Conservation and the Environment

The Academy for Conservation and the Environment (ACE) in Brooklyn is known for its small, supportive learning community, where parents and students often highlight the close connections with teachers and personalized attention. The school emphasizes sciences and technology, offering a curriculum focused on environmental education and conservation studies. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning, including a hydroponics class taught by a Cornell University professor, and can pursue internships, some through a partnership with The Nature Conservancy. ACE provides Advanced Placement (AP) courses and early college options through a partnership with Medgar Evers College. The school demonstrates strengths in student outcomes, with a four-year graduation rate of 89%, which is well above the citywide median, and a college enrollment rate of 67.7%, also above the citywide median. Student surveys indicate a generally safe environment and fair conflict resolution. However, Regents exam pass rates are mixed, with several subjects, including Geometry, Algebra I, and Chemistry, showing lower proficiency levels. The school also utilizes restorative justice practices for social-emotional support and fosters community through a "house" system and lunchtime clubs.