Marsh Avenue School for Expeditionary Learning

Marsh Avenue School for Expeditionary Learning (MAELS) is a highly-regarded middle school serving grades 6-8 on Staten Island, recognized for its innovative Expeditionary Learning model. It consistently ranks among the top middle schools in New York and is a popular choice, attracting students from across the borough. The curriculum emphasizes deep, multidisciplinary projects, or "expeditions," that integrate subjects like science, social studies, math, and English, fostering critical thinking and perseverance. Academically, the school demonstrates strong performance, with ELA and Math proficiency rates well above the citywide median. It also offers accelerated coursework in math and world languages. A key feature is the "Crew" advisory system, where students receive support from a dedicated teacher throughout their three years, creating a strong sense of community and a safe space for personal development. Parents and students frequently praise the welcoming environment, the principal's involvement, and the overall positive learning experience, with students reporting feeling "seen, heard and valued." The school provides a wide array of electives, including visual and performing arts, broadcast journalism, and technology, alongside various after-school activities. While the school maintains a positive overall safety and climate rating, student survey responses indicate that a notable portion of students experience bullying or harassment at times. The school also has a relatively early start time.