MARK TWAIN IS 239 FOR THE GIFTED AND TALENTED

Mark Twain Intermediate School 239 (I.S. 239) is a specialized public middle school located in Coney Island, Brooklyn, known for its rigorous academic environment and focus on serving gifted and talented students. Unlike standard neighborhood middle schools, it functions as a district-wide choice school, drawing high-achieving students from across Brooklyn who must qualify through a selective audition or testing process. The school is highly regarded for its specialized curriculum, which emphasizes critical thinking, advanced coursework, and deep exploration of subjects.

Beyond its academic reputation, the school is famous for its extensive "talent programs." Students are typically admitted into specific talent tracks—such as Art, Computer/Math, Creative Writing, Media, Music, Science, or Theater—which allow them to immerse themselves in specialized instruction alongside their core academic studies. This combination of an accelerated academic track and intensive talent development makes I.S. 239 one of the most sought-after middle schools in New York City, fostering a community of students who are encouraged to excel in both scholarly pursuits and creative disciplines.