Brooklyn Prep’s mission is to prepare all its students to succeed in a
challenging college program and a fulfilling career and ultimately, to
take on an extraordinary responsibility for our world. We are a small,
college preparatory high school where academic rigor is accompanied by
intensive individual support; a nurturing community where every student
is known well; and a learning organization where both young people and
adults are actively engaged in inquiry, reflection, and collaboration.
Our curriculum and assessment revolve around the Habits of Mind that we
believe students must develop in order to be successful in college,
career and life:
1. Habit of Perspective
What is the question or issue?
What is the viewpoint presented?
How else can this be considered? (What is the viewpoint of others?)
What is my viewpoint, and why?
2. Habit of Analysis
What is my interpretation of the material presented?
What is the evidence?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of my interpretation?
Have I communicated this effectively?
3. Habit of Connections
How does this connect to my own experience?
How does this connect to the larger community?
How does this connect to other ideas I’ve read about or studied?
Why is this important?
How does this affect others?
4. Habit of Imagination
Have I incorporated individuality and creativity into my work?
What are different possibilities or solutions for the main issue I’m addressing?
Have I taken a risk?
5. Habit of Commitment
Does my work show commitment to organization, revision, and cooperation? (Academic)
What is my responsibility to others at Brooklyn Prep and the larger community? (Social)