2022-23 School Performance Dashboard, Mark Twain I.S. 239
As a “gifted and talented” school, Mark Twain accepts applicants from all over the city.
Brooklyn
Mo’ Charters Mo’ Problems
The historical documents found on this website are primary sources: historical records produced in one moment in time, that help us understand that moment in time.
Clark Hits Integration Plan at Mark Twain JHS
When Judge Jack Weinstein initially issued a court order to integrate District 21 schools, he proposed a wide-reaching plan that called for the Board of Education, District 21’s school board, and private real estate developers and housing officials to integrate the district’s neighborhoods and schools.
“Hart v. Community School Board 21, excerpt 2”
Judge Jack Weinstein ruled Mark Twain unconstitutionally segregated in 1974.
Hart v. Community School Board 21, excerpt 1
Jeffrey Hart was a student at Mark Twain Junior High School in Brooklyn.
Mark Twain on The 51st State, excerpt 4
The all-white board of Community School District 21 in Brooklyn approved a proposal to desegregate Mark Twain Junior High School by making it a school for “gifted and talented” students - or, in the language of the day, students in “special progress” or “rapid advancement” classes.
Mark Twain on the 51st State, excerpt 3
What do schools try to teach their students?
Mark Twain on the 51st State, excerpt 2
In this segment of a 1974 news program, journalist Richard Kotuk introduces Mark Twain Junior High School.
Mark Twain on The 51st State, excerpt 1
In this video excerpt, reporter Richard Kotuk attempts to explain how what he calls “central Coney Island” has become predominantly “poor, Puerto Rican, and black.
S.O. F.E.D. U.P. Handbook for the Disabled Students of Brooklyn College, CUNY, excerpt
The late 1960s and early 1970s saw campus activism around the United States, for social change and against the Vietnam War.
I.S. 55 Graduation Speech
Please note: This is work in progress. Please keep that in mind as you read.
District 21 Population Maps
This map illustrates the boundaries of Community District 21, which includes the Coney Island, Brighton Beach, and Gravesend neighborhoods of Brooklyn, among others.
Community Control March
During the 1968 teacher strike, community control advocates continued to participate in leading local school districts and arguing for self-determination in education.
Parents Speaking on Ocean Hill-Brownsville
This video captures New York City parents speaking of their desires for community control of their children’s schools.
The 1965 Boycott on Film
The 1965 boycott targeted segregation in New York City’s junior high schools and “600” schools.
Freedom Day March on Film
On the day of the February 3 boycott, some participants gathered at the headquarters of the New York City Board of Education at 110 Livingston Street in Brooklyn, where they marched and picketed.
Claim Teachers Used Pupils as Shoe Shine Boys: DA Calls Charges “Serious”
In late 1963, The Amsterdam News reported on allegations that teachers and administrators at P.