Our students’ determination, perseverance, and continued hard work have surely paid off with the great results on the Specialized High School Admission Exam. This year the SHSAT outcome exceeded all of our expectations: 57% of our eighth graders have been admitted into New York City’s specialized high schools while the rest of the learners have been accepted by the schools of their choice. Exams may not be the ultimate tests of life, but they are definitely the ultimate test of character. By passing these exams, it has been proven that our students have strong characters, and are full of determination and commitment.

Centuries ago, battles were fought with swords and shields. Nowadays, battles are fought with knowledge, intelligence, and academic degrees. We are proud that learning experiences our students went through at the Big Apple Academy have equipped them with the skills necessary to face the challenges of all sorts of academic battles. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all subject teachers and school administrators who made this success possible. I commend your dedication to the profession of teaching and admire your commitment to improving learning for our students. Moreover, I would like to recognize our outstanding classroom teachers for their hard work and dedication, both in and out of the classrooms, motivating students to fulfill their potential.