Newcomers High School, the 6th best high school in the United States

For those interested in performing arts schools, preparation can be difficult. Preeti explains that she attended an arts middle school. "It wasn't hard for me to put my portfolio together."

As mentioned, there are at least four ways students are selected for high schools. For some schools, students may be selected based on their grades and test scores in middle school. Of critical importance are the 7th grade standardized tests (Math and ELA). Students may be accepted by random assignment by a computer. This is called the Ed/Opt selection method.

If that's not enough choice, there are still other ways to get to high school. Transfer schools are set up around the city for students who have not accumulated enough credits to graduate from high school. Students who have dropped out of school find this option useful. Young Adult Borough Centers are for students are also behind on credits but students must be at least 17 years old. GED schools are similar, but students must be at least 18 years old. Finally, international schools, like Newcomers High School in the picture, cater to students who are learning English. It is open to Queens residents living in the United States less than one year, who have never attended school in this country and whose native language is not English.

If this article totally confuses you, it's because it totally confuses me too. Email us some questions and we will surely respond! The next article will be about mental health and youth! For more information on the process, contact your Borough Enrollment Office!