P.S./I.S. 224

P.S./I.S. 224, also known as Exploration & Discovery (MS 224), is a small middle school in the Bronx serving grades 6-8. The school has a high percentage of students from low-income backgrounds, English Language Learners, and students with disabilities. Academically, the school faces challenges, with ELA and Math proficiency rates well below citywide averages, and no accelerated coursework is offered. Despite academic concerns, the school maintains a positive safety and school climate and fosters strong relationships with families. A distinctive feature is its student-run “Best Middle School Podcast,” which provides students with hands-on media experience and communication skills. The school also emphasizes physical development through active participation in the NYC Middle School CHAMPS sports program. To support academic growth, the school offers a Saturday School program focused on building skills in Math and ELA in smaller class settings, aiming to boost student confidence and engagement. While official parent surveys indicate high satisfaction with family engagement, student surveys reveal some concerns regarding bullying and physical altercations. The school shares its building with other educational institutions.