Poly Prep Bay Ridge

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Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood, Poly Prep Country Day School stands as a testament to educational excellence and rich historical tradition. Founded in 1854, this prestigious institution has transformed from a small boys’ preparatory school to a comprehensive co-educational learning environment that spans from Nursery through 12th grade.

A Legacy of Educational Innovation

The school’s journey began as the Brooklyn Collegiate and Polytechnic Institute, originally established at 99 Livingston Street in Brooklyn Heights. What started as a pioneering boys’ school quickly grew to become one of the largest preparatory schools in the country by the mid-1890s, with over 600 students.

Transformative Milestones

Poly Prep has undergone several significant transformations throughout its history:

• In 1916, the school acquired a 25-acre parcel of land, formerly the Dyker Meadow Golf Course, marking its transition to a true country day school
• In 1977, the school began its transition to co-education, graduating its first mixed-gender class in 1979
• In 1995, Poly Prep established its Lower School in Park Slope, expanding its educational offerings

Campus and Community

Today, Poly Prep operates across two distinctive locations: a 25-acre campus in Dyker Heights and a historic mansion in Park Slope overlooking Prospect Park. The school serves approximately 1,021 students and employs around 270 faculty members.

Educational Philosophy

The school’s mission encapsulates its core values: Mind. Body. Character. Poly Prep aims to prepare and inspire a diverse generation of leaders, emphasizing:

• Ethical decision-making
• Personal responsibility
• Dedicated effort
• Honesty and integrity

Modern Achievements

In recent years, Poly Prep has continued to evolve. The school welcomed Dr. Noni Thomas López as its twelfth Head of School, marking a significant milestone as the first woman of color to lead the institution. The school remains committed to diversity, with over 40 bus routes covering Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.

With a rich history spanning nearly two centuries, Poly Prep continues to embody Brooklyn's tenacious spirit, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience that goes far beyond traditional academics.