In an effort to meet the needs of a diverse and expanding community,
M.S. 145 opened its doors in September, 1965. The name
Arturo Toscanini
was selected to honor a distinguished musician, conductor and resident
of the Bronx, Maestro Arturo Toscanini. Courses offering instrumental
and choral forms of music were made available to combine the worlds of
the scholar and artist. That same tradition continues today.
The Academy for Creative Education and the Arts at
M.S. 145 was created for this purpose. We offer an academically
rigorous and innovative program stressing high standards of
performance, study and discipline. The Academy program emphasizes
analytical thinking skills, communication skills and independent
research. All students participate in high performance based academic
core concentrations in both Mathematics and Literacy through extended
blocks of time. Within a framework of academic and interdisciplinary
richness, students explore a curriculum emphasizing the arts. Drama,
vocal, dance, instrumental and choral music, and the fine arts are
offered. Students actively participate in a series of performances,
both in and out of our school community, which highlight their
intellectual and personal development. Each individual is expected, on
such occasions, to dress in a professional and sophisticated manner
emphasizing the role of a performer. Additional emphasis is placed on
the learning of a second language and gaining computer skills, as well
as incorporating science through technology into cooperative learning
activities.
An extended day program, as well as Saturday and Vacation Academies,
are available for students seeking to learn beyond the confines of the
regular school day. Exciting and challenging courses are offered in
academics, vocal and instrumental stage performance refinement, fine
arts portfolio creation in preparation for specialized high school
acceptance and computer generated publication for our senior students
utilizing digital photography and computer graphics. Additional
preparatory opportunity for those seeking entrance to the Albert G.
Oliver program, ABC (A Better Chance,) or specialized high schools such
as Bronx Science are also provided.
The Academy’s staff endeavors to provide a caring and nurturing
environment which will support students as they meet the objectives of
Performance Standards. The teaching team targeted for this academy is
composed of committed and experienced professionals drawn from the
finest schools. A student-centered environment is the focus of our
teaching/learning experience and is grounded in the most progressive
adolescent theories. We will challenge each student to become a
lifelong learner and a responsible, productive citizen.