James Madison High School

James Madison High School in Midwood, Brooklyn, is a large, historic public high school established in 1925, renowned for its exceptionally distinguished alumni, including Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Senators Bernie Sanders and Chuck Schumer, Judge Judy Sheindlin, and multiple Nobel Prize winners. With an enrollment of over 4,000 students, it is one of the city's largest high schools. The school boasts a strong college enrollment rate of 75.7%, which is well above the citywide median. Its graduation rate of 87.0% is slightly below the citywide median. Regents pass rates are strong in English and History, with over 80% of students passing, and exceptionally high in Languages Other Than English at 94.0%. However, pass rates in Math and Science subjects are generally lower, ranging from 50% to 62%. Parent survey data indicates very high positive sentiment regarding the school environment and communication. While some parents and students praise the dedicated teachers, strong academic programs, and extensive extracurricular opportunities, noting that motivated students can thrive, older online reviews also express concerns about school culture, cleanliness, and a perceived lack of challenge for average students. The school offers a wide array of academic programs, including over a dozen Advanced Placement courses, and specialized "houses" or institutes. Facilities include three gymnasiums, a football field, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a mock courtroom named after Ruth Bader Ginsburg.