Sunnyside Middle School

Sunnyside Middle School (IS 429) in Queens provides a rigorous and joyful learning environment with a strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). The school's mission emphasizes fostering innovation, problem-solving, and intellectual risk-taking, guided by its core R.I.S.E. values: Respect, Innovate, Scholarship, and Excellence. Academically, the school demonstrates significant strengths, with ELA proficiency well above the citywide median and near the 75th percentile, and math proficiency also performing strongly, close to the 75th percentile. It also boasts a lower chronic absenteeism rate compared to many city schools. Parents generally describe a positive experience, noting kind and helpful teachers, and a safe and clean environment. The school is recognized for its academic excellence, ranking among the top middle schools in New York. While a majority of students feel safe in common areas, a notable percentage of students perceive bullying as a frequent occurrence. The school operates from a new, fully accessible campus with state-of-the-art facilities and offers distinct academies in Young Explorers, Design & Engineering, and Arts.