Catherine & Count Basie Middle School 72

Catherine & Count Basie Middle School 72, located in South Jamaica, Queens, is a magnet school for Multimedia and Performing Arts serving grades 6-8. The school emphasizes a rigorous, project-based, culturally responsive, and interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates multimedia and performing arts with a STEAM program, offering advanced Algebra and Living Environment Regents courses. While the school aims for high academic standards, state test scores for ELA (37%) and Math (27%) proficiency are below the citywide 25th percentile, and the percentage of students in accelerated coursework (16%) is below the citywide median. Despite historical challenges with student achievement, recent reviews indicate significant improvements in safety and the overall school environment under new administration. Parents describe a caring staff and a welcoming atmosphere, particularly for students new to the country, and the school is noted for its focus on character development. Parent relationships are rated as excellent, with overwhelmingly positive survey results. Student survey results show high favorable rates for conflict resolution and safety agents, though a notable percentage of students report experiencing bullying. As a community school, it provides free after-school programs, dental, vision, and family support services, alongside extensive extracurriculars in arts, sports, and clubs.