Albert Shanker School for Visual and Performing Arts

Albert Shanker School for Visual and Performing Arts is a middle school serving grades 6-8 in Queens, distinguished by its dual emphasis on rigorous academics and a robust visual and performing arts curriculum. Academically, the school's ELA and Math proficiency rates are around the citywide median, with a notable share of students engaged in accelerated coursework, placing it above the 25th percentile for the city. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous, offering programs focused on college readiness and preparation for the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT). The school provides a wide array of arts programs, including visual arts, chorus, music, drama, musical theater, and dance, with multiple performances annually and partnerships with various arts organizations. Modern facilities include state-of-the-art Science and Computer Labs, a Hydroponics Lab, and daily access to technology. Parent sentiment is largely positive, with many praising the supportive teachers and the school's preparation for high school, and the school actively fosters family partnerships. However, some student feedback indicates mixed experiences regarding school cleanliness, fair conflict resolution, and bullying. Challenges in test scores for English Language Learners and students with special needs have also been noted.