Superintendent’s Message

Dear District 13 Families and Caregivers,

Welcome back to a new school year in District 13! 

Happy September 13th - also known as D13 Day!  We celebrate the 13th of each month in honor of District 13 and all of the amazing individuals who make up this unique and diverse community. I hope your summer was restful and joyful, and that you’re as excited as we are to begin another year of learning, growth, and community.

Last year, our district made incredible strides in academic achievement. We saw a 7% increase in ELA scores and a 6% increase in math scores across the district—some of the highest gains in math citywide! Notably, 3rd grade ELA scores rose by 11%, and 6th grade ELA scores increased by 10%, reflecting the hard work of our students, educators, and families.

This year, we’re keeping our focus areas the same—but going deeper. Our unofficial motto is: “Doing it again and doing it better.” We’re building on last year’s successes and continuing to support students with high-quality instruction, inclusive practices, and meaningful engagement.

District 13 Focus Areas

As we continue our work, here are the three district-wide priorities you’ll see in action again this year:

Implementation of EL  Literacy Curriculum (K–8)
All schools will continue using EL Education as our core literacy program, with foundational skills support in K–2 and Strategic Instructional Periods in grades 3–8. Last Year’s ELA IMPACT - Title I Elementary Schools increased by an average of 11%!

Restorative Justice Practices
We remain committed to fostering inclusive, affirming school environments through restorative practices. All staff will continue receiving Tier I training. Last Year’s RJ IMPACT -  We have trained 45% of District 13 staff so far (compared to 5%) city wide!

District 13 Assessment in Mathematics (AIM)
We’re deepening our math instruction through targeted professional learning and coaching partnerships with Solved Consulting (K - 5) and Teaching Lab (6 - 8).  Last Year’s Math IMPACT - Title I Elementary Schools increased by an average of 12%!

Opportunities to Get Involved

We’re also excited to offer new and expanded opportunities for students and families to engage with the District 13 community:

D13 Saturday Scene
We are excited to offer the D13 Saturday Scene again - a no-cost Saturday enrichment program for District 13 4th and 5th graders, offering hands-on STEM, Arts, and Wellness experiences across all eight middle schools. Designed to foster community and accelerate learning, this initiative provides exciting new opportunities for students and families to connect and grow. Click here to learn more and express interest!

D13 x NYC First STEM Center Expansion

The D13 x NYCFirst STEM Center will continue to offer in school field trips and partnerships for all D13 Schools. This year, the STEM Center will expand after school offerings with a new Thursday program focused on FIRST LEGO League, where students can explore robotics, develop teamwork skills, and build valuable STEM skills. Click here to sign up!

D13 Partnerships Fund

As we return to school, we are strengthening our commitment to ensure every D13 school has the right resources and programs to support its students’ development. We’re happy to announce our continued partnership with Brooklyn.org and the D13 Partnerships Fund. Donations to the fund  help support partnership programs with local organizations that provide supplemental arts, cultural, STEM and other program opportunities for students at less resourced D13 schools.

If you donate to your school’s PTA, please consider a matching donation to support equitable programs across District 13.

Donate at Brooklyn ORG Now

Looking forward to making this year even better—together.

In partnership,

Meghan K. Dunn
Superintendent Community School District 13
New York City Public Schools

P.S. Are you looking to be more involved in District 13?  The D13 Advisory Group brings together district staff, educators, parents, and community leaders to support culturally responsive curricula, strong family engagement, academic excellence, and resource equity across D13 schools.

If you're a D13 parent or caregiver interested in joining the Advisory Group or a sub-committee on enrollment and facilities, please fill out the form below. We'll follow up with details on how to get involved.  District 13 Advisory Group Interest Form