Stuyvesant High School

What I've learned from my experience is that Stuyvesant isn't for everyone. On paper, it sounds amazing, but the experience can really make or break you. Some kids are tough, are great at studying until 4:00am every day. For some, it's a great school. It's got a lot to offer and and is amazing academically. I feel that students don't get to have a good high school experience going here. If cramming is your thing, than Stuy is the place for you, it will not let you rest or get a minute of free time. You'll get into a great college and learn tons. Personally, I think that Bronx High School of Science is a better all around option, astounding academics, sports, opportunities, community and will lead to a better high school experience. Stuyvesant is a great, great high school, but if you don't know what to expect, you'll be surprised.

We heard warnings from other parents whose kids had terrible experiences at Stuy, but we didn't listen and thought our son would do just fine. Sadly, he had a terrible four years and I wish we'd listened more carefully to what those other parents told us. Stuy is a brutal factory school. If your child is a superstar with a thick skin and tons of self-confidence, she'll probably be fine and go to Harvard. If your child has moments of insecurity or is not prepared to study 12 hours per day, you may well have problems coming your way. And don't expect the administration to listen when you wonder why your child is extremely stressed and depressed. They think that's normal for teenagers because that's how the majority of their students are. I know I sound bitter, but you can't truly believe it until it happens to you. No wonder stress and depression are constant topics for the PTA. If you have the opportunity, make another choice. Your child will thank you
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent school. The Principal, the parent coordinator, the Assistant Principals and teachers are the best in the city and thus in the country and furthermore in the world. I am so happy that my daughter has achieved to be there and further achieved to be at the top 2-3% of her class.
--Submitted by a parent

Stuyvesant High School is one example that provides superior education. The benefit of having a magnet school in a school district enriches communities. I firmly believe that Stuyvesant High School has given intellectually gifted children the opportunity to succeed and thrive in this competitive environment.
--Submitted by a teacher

Stuyvesant was easily the best thing that ever happened to me. I cannot thank my parents enough for the opportunity, since I got to meet such a diverse set of people- that doesn't ring true on the surface given the demographic breakdown- but hopefully we're interacting with different groups of people and being exposed to different mindsets, backgrounds, and lifestyles- the true kernel of diversity. Definitely try to go here- I met some very passionate, well-read teachers here who inspired me when they found a strength, and helped me with my weaknesses. And for the size of the student body, I found a surprising deal of close-knit camaraderie. Fantastic. And now in college, which is completely different, I'm happy I chose a public magnet in the city as opposed to a private school which also provides great education but nurtures the kind of environment I'm enjoying in college now regardless. It's definitely distinctive- don't miss out. - alumnus

This is the best public school in New York City. However, the lack of diversity calls to question whether social interaction among people wit different backgrounds is critical to education.

One of my children graduated from Stuyvesant High School, another one is in his freshmen year now. Stuyvesant High School is simply the best public school in the city for those who are foremost interested in great education.
--Submitted by a parent

DO NOT I repeat DO NOT go here or send your kids here unless they are legitimately smart. They are just going to get lost in a sea of above average kids. A few exceptional students will shine and move on the Ivy League schools but you are screwing yourself socially by going here. Your teenage years are very important and there are other schools where you will have room to develop socially in a normal manner while also challenging yourself educationally. Every good school has some great teachers, half of Stuy's teachers are regular teachers, nothing really special. Save yourself the long commute and stress...unless a "prestigious" name on your diploma is the meaning you look for in life
--Submitted by a student

The school has the most-talented students

Teachers and students are great. It's a school for people who loves to learn and be challenged.
--Submitted by a parent