When adults believe, STUDENTS RISE
How NYC’s District 18 raised the bar to improve reading outcomes for Black students.
DETAILS
NYC District 18
Released Feb 12, 2026
SUMMARY
New York City’s District 18, located in the Canarsie and East Flatbush neighborhoods of Brooklyn, demonstrates what’s possible when leaders believe deeply in the potential of their students and refuse to lower the bar for some based on low reading proficiency, economic disadvantage, race, or even disability. Across the board, leaders in this district reject the phrase “I can’t” or “they can’t” when it comes to reading.
By maintaining high standards and equipping teachers, principals, and district leaders with high-quality materials and coaching, the district has shown that shared curriculums work—not just for students who were already on track, but also for those who have historically been underserved.
“Watching students rise to the intellectual demands of the curriculum reinforced a critical mindset shift: When we provide access to challenging texts paired with intentional scaffolds and supports, students meet — and often exceed —expectations.”
— Celeste Terry, Superintendent