About Us

William Alexander
MS 51

two students working together in the classroom

MS 51 is located in Park Slope, Brooklyn, uniquely committed to a balance of both an intensive accelerated academic program and an in-depth, three-year arts program. At MS 51, our aim is to prepare students for the rigors and challenges of high school, with a challenging academic program aligned to a continuum based on the Common Core Learning Standards. Our students are motivated by highly effective teachers who hold high expectations and know how to engage students in advanced level curriculum. This is supplemented by an intensive focused study of one of six “studio talent” areas–including vocal music, drama, instrumental music, dance, photography, and fine art–in which students develop a deep connection to their talent as they explore their art and self-expression. Our academic and arts curriculum is rounded out by a strong commitment to community service, sustainability, and philanthropy, with ongoing activities and initiatives that have become infused into the culture of MS 51.

The successful results of this balance are visible in numerous ways: Our graduates go on to the top specialized, screened, and performing arts high schools in the city, and our school and students receive countless awards each year from organizations such as the Scholastic Awards for writing and art, Arts Connection for Photography and Art, Young Playwrights for drama, and Green Apple Award for Sustainability.

MS 51 students enjoy the opportunity whereby students can interact with our local community, play outside on our large campus provided by the Washington Park playground and the adjoining “turf” behind the Old Stone House. In addition all students participate in an advisory program which emphasizing on community building and sharing. We follow the morning side curriculum.

The MS 51 community is strengthened by a wonderfully active and engaged parent body. Our Parent Association (PA) provides a host of both community building and fundraising events and activities to support the school, provide additional resources to enrich our students’ learning experience and bolster communication between home and school, particularly important in these middle school years. Parents are also deeply involved in our talent programs, lending time, talent, and skills to assist with the production of our numerous live performances and exhibitions throughout the school year.

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today” – Malcolm X

Jack Chan — Principal
Core Values
  • RESPECT — Inclusive and caring, we value student voice through social action and art expression
  • RIGOR — Honors, accelerated, and high school level classes for all students
  • RESPONSIBILITY — Self-regulation, independence, and service learning
  • RESILIENCE — Academic and personal behaviors, productive struggle, feedback and goal setting