Vista Academy

Vista Academy is a Brooklyn middle school serving grades 6-8, known for its comprehensive approach to student development. The school places a strong emphasis on character education, social-emotional health, and daily mindfulness activities, including a unique Decision Making Period (DMP) course designed to foster self-management and community building. Academically, the school demonstrates a notable strength in math proficiency, performing well above the citywide median. However, ELA proficiency rates are closer to the citywide 25th percentile. The school offers a rich array of programs, including partnerships with Lincoln Center and the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music for arts education, a robust STEM program featuring 3D printing and a hydroponic lab, and a Verizon partnership that provides students with Chromebooks and access to an innovation lab. Parents generally express high satisfaction with the school, though some online reviews mention concerns regarding administration and curriculum. Student surveys, however, indicate significant challenges with school climate, including a higher-than-average perception of bullying, and concerns about physical fights and fairness in conflict resolution. The school also provides a wide variety of after-school clubs and offers Math and Science Regents courses to eighth-grade scholars.