A Neighborhood Rich in History & Activism
PS 256 was built in 1959, and has always been an active participant in the Bedford-Stuyvesant community. Our school is named after Benjamin Banneker, a Black astronomer, naturalist, surveyor, and almanac author.
Directly across from the school lies the Hattie Carthan Community Garden. Facing the school, on its north side, is the Marcy Pool. About a half block east lie the Magnolia Tree Earth Center and Von King Park.
These landmarks exemplify Bed-Stuy’s long-standing sense of community activism, self-determination and pride that are still prevalent today, even as the neighborhood experiences a demographic and economic shift. At PS 256, we embrace this thriving culture and are a part of it ourselves.
Becoming a Magnet School
In 2021, PS 256 was awarded a 5-year federal Magnet School Assistance Program (MSAP) grant to support and enhance the school's instructional program. Our namesake, Benjamin Banneker, inspired our theme, architecture and engineering. Since this evolution, we have developed thriving partnerships with organizations including Studio in a School, Asphalt Green, the Salvadori Center, COOKFOX Architecture, Liberty Science Center, City Technology, and Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet. Partners provide both professional learning to staff and direct instruction to students. Our diverse partnerships assist staff in designing and implementing project-based, interdisciplinary units of study rooted in science and social studies themes.
In 2022, PS 256’s beloved Principal, the late Sharyn Hemphill, retired after sixteen years of leadership. Soon after, Ina M. Solomon was appointed Principal. Ms. Solomon is thrilled to be part of such a warm and innovative school. Learn more about Principal Solomon and her 25 year history in NYC education.
Learn more:
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Magnet schools are public schools, accountable to the same state standards as all other New York City public schools. Each magnet school focuses on individually themed curricula that provides engaging and innovative learning opportunities to all students. Magnet schools attract children of all socioeconomic backgrounds and academic achievement levels. They promote 21st Century skills as well as creativity, teamwork, and acceptance. Magnet school students learn in vibrant environments that prepare them for future careers and successful community engagement through hands-on experience working with businesses, cultural institutions, universities and community organizations.
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Anyone! We are a NYC public school and have open enrollment. View Admissions to learn more.
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Our diverse partnerships deepen student learning and enrich the school day with hands-on explorations led by city-wide educators. Explore this programming on our partnership page.