Hawtree Creek Middle School

Hawtree Creek Middle School (HCMS) in South Ozone Park, Queens, serves students in grades 6-8, operating as a small school within the Virgil I. Grissom Campus. The school is recognized for its solid academics, with ELA proficiency (61%) and Math proficiency (68%) both performing above the citywide median. HCMS cultivates a strong college-going culture, incorporating college campus visits and providing support for high school selection starting in 7th grade. It is an AVID Showcase School, emphasizing communication, research, and problem-solving skills, alongside a structured writing program. The school enjoys an excellent reputation for safety and school climate, with high student satisfaction regarding feeling safe and low reported bullying compared to city averages. Relationships with families are also highly rated, reflected in overwhelmingly positive parent survey responses. Parents describe a well-organized environment with strong teaching and engaging projects, where students are encouraged to take leadership roles in conferences and orientations. The school also offers special programs in instrumental music, visual arts, science, math, and a garden project.