The Christa McAuliffe School\I.S. 187

The Christa McAuliffe School, I.S. 187, is widely recognized as one of Brooklyn's top-rated middle schools, known for its demanding academics and high percentage of students who gain admission to specialized high schools. The school operates on an academy structure, offering programs in Scientific Research, Arts & Humanities, and Business & Law, which fosters a sense of identity and a small school environment within a larger institution. Academically, the school excels, with ELA and Math proficiency rates (92% and 95% respectively) and accelerated coursework (91%) well above citywide medians. Parents consistently report overwhelmingly positive experiences, particularly regarding family engagement and the supportive environment. However, some students describe the academic workload as intense, leading to stress. The faculty is highly praised for being caring, passionate, and effective. The school also offers unique opportunities such as an aviation program with flight simulators and a popular free after-school program. While student surveys indicate high levels of safety, some concerns have been raised about instances of bullying, racism, and homophobia, which the school is actively working to address. The school lacks a full-size gymnasium.