J.H.S. 162 The Willoughby

J.H.S. 162 The Willoughby, a middle school serving grades 6-8 in Brooklyn, is known for fostering a nurturing environment with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and community engagement. Parents consistently report overwhelmingly positive experiences, with high satisfaction regarding the school's climate and relationships with families. Teachers also express strong approval of the principal's leadership and would recommend the school to other families. While state test proficiency rates in ELA and Math are below the citywide 25th percentile, the school offers a significant percentage of accelerated coursework, well above the citywide median, indicating opportunities for advanced learning. The curriculum aims to be rigorous and comprehensive, nurturing critical thinking and creativity. Distinctive features include modern classrooms, science laboratories, makerspaces, and a thriving hydroponics grow lab. Students can explore passions through elective courses in visual and performing arts, foreign languages, and computer science. The school also implements a comprehensive Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program and provides various leadership opportunities.