Thirteen Brooklyn schools in Districts 13 and 14 will now be able to support programs that strengthen learning, creativity and community engagement.
The Walentas Family Foundation on Wednesday announced the recipients of its 2025–2026 Neighborhood School Grants, distributing $250,000 to public schools across Brooklyn’s Districts 13 and 14.
This year’s 13 grant recipients include Lewis Latimer, Charles A. Dorsey Community School, Daniel Hale Williams, Dock Street School for STEAM Studies, Urban Assembly Unison School, Brooklyn International High School, Downtown Brooklyn Young Adult Borough Center, Brooklyn School for Career Development, Leonard Dunkly, Benjamin Franklin Health and Science Academy, Brooklyn Transition Center, Conselyea Preparatory School and Lyons Community School.
The foundation’s Neighborhood School Grants program supports projects that strengthen classroom learning, creativity, and community engagement. Funding is awarded for initiatives that fall outside a school’s existing budget, helping to launch programs and resources that might otherwise not be possible.
“We believe that thriving neighborhoods begin with strong schools,” said Ariel Willmott, program officer at the Walentas Family Foundation. “This year’s grants will help schools strengthen hands-on learning through expanded STEAM programs, increase college and career exploration opportunities, and provide targeted professional development to better support students with diverse learning needs.”
Schools are encouraged to propose projects that reflect their unique needs and priorities, from curriculum development and teacher training to enrichment activities, vocational programs, and mentoring focused on equity and student growth.
For the 2025–2026 cycle, 62% of schools in District 13 and 75% of all funded schools serve populations with poverty rates of 70% or higher. This year’s funding will emphasize closing learning gaps, promoting social-emotional development and advancing equity plus inclusion for special populations.
Among this year’s initiatives, Benjamin Franklin Health and Science Academy will expand its science lab with habitats for insects, reptiles and small mammals, along with new hydroponic and aquaponic systems, supporting hands-on science learning for a student body where 40% live in temporary housing.
Urban Assembly Unison School will provide professional development for educators to better support students with disabilities, while Lyons Community School will host overnight college visits outside New York City, giving students the opportunity to explore independent living and campus life.
Since its launch in 2013, the Neighborhood School Grants program has awarded more than $4 million to innovative educational initiatives across Brooklyn’s Districts 13, 14 and 15.
The program allows schools to apply for up to $25,000 in funding for any project that enhances learning and community connection. Schools may receive grants for up to three consecutive years before taking a one-year pause prior to reapplying.
More information about the Neighborhood School Grants program is available at twotreesny.com/neighborhood-school-grants.