J.H.S. 259 William McKinley

J.H.S. 259 William McKinley in Brooklyn's Bay Ridge is a highly sought-after middle school, consistently ranking among the top in New York City. It is known for its rigorous academics, with ELA and Math proficiency rates (72% and 82% respectively) well above citywide medians and 75th percentiles. A significant 67% of students participate in accelerated coursework, far exceeding the citywide 75th percentile, and Regents-tracked courses in Algebra, Living Environment, and U.S. History are available to all. The school offers a robust Visual and Performing Arts program, featuring Advanced String Orchestra, Marching Band, and student-painted murals throughout the building. Modern facilities include upgraded air-conditioned gyms, interactive boards, laptops in every classroom, and state-of-the-art auditorium lighting and sound. Parents generally praise the dedicated staff and wide range of extracurriculars, from robotics to culinary arts and sports. However, with nearly 1,800 students, it is one of the city's largest middle schools, leading to some concerns about crowding and occasional class interruptions. Student survey results also indicate some challenges with bullying and conflict resolution.