P.S. 159 Isaac Pitkin

P.S. 159 Isaac Pitkin is a K-5 elementary school in Brooklyn known for its diverse student body and strong community ties. Academic proficiency in both English Language Arts and Math is around the citywide average for elementary schools. Parents consistently express high satisfaction, praising the dedicated teachers and the supportive learning environment. The school serves a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students and English Language Learners, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity. The school offers a rich array of programs beyond core academics, including a comprehensive after-school program through the Greater Ridgewood Youth Council that features activities like art, dance, STEM, music, theater, sports, and hydroponics. Technology is integrated into daily learning, with personal devices for every student, coding instruction across all grades, and opportunities for 3D printing. A unique hydroponics lab provides hands-on science exploration, complementing a robust music program and a computer science curriculum focused on artificial intelligence. While some past concerns about external safety have been noted, the school maintains a 0% suspension rate, indicating a safe internal climate. The school occupies a large, five-story brick building.