158 Richmond Street
Brooklyn,
NY
11208
Our school is near the J and Z trains, and the B13 and B24 bus line stops.
Bus transportation is provided to eligible students who live at least 1 mile from the school and reside in Brooklyn. Scholars who live at least .5 miles from the school are eligible to receive a MetroCard.
Phone Fax718-228-9141
Opened: September 2009
Grades: 5-8
Hours: 7:30 a.m. – 3:50 p.m. Monday – Thursday; 7:30 a.m. – 12:50 p.m. Friday
Enrichment: Computer Science, Art
Extracurriculars: Beyond the Bell (Afterschool Program), Flag Football, Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Co-ed Soccer, Step Team, Student Council, Young Men’s Leadership Program, Young Women’s Leadership Program
“Excellence Lives Here”
Achievement First East New York Middle School is a public charter school located in Brooklyn, NY within the Cypress Hills neighborhood. Serving students in 5th through 8th grade, our focus is in providing educational and enriching opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed for middle school students. We are proud to provide a safe, enriching non-profit charter school option for families throughout the Brooklyn area.
Shamel E. Duncan is the Principal of Achievement First East New York Middle School, with 13 years of experience as an educator and leader. His journey with Achievement First started at AF ENY in 2013 as a Behavior Specialist, making his return as principal a full-circle moment rooted in purpose and community. A proud graduate of Morris College and Boys & Girls High School, Mr. Duncan leads with a simple “why”: every child deserves a joyful, safe, and academically ambitious school that recognizes and nurtures their potential.
Under Mr. Duncan’s leadership, AF East New York has achieved consistent, year-over-year improvements in ELA, Math, and Science, fueled by strong instruction, intentional use of data, and a culture of high expectations supported by high levels of support. Teachers receive regular coaching, clear curricula, and practical tools that respect their time and expertise. Families experience open communication, consistent routines, and meaningful partnerships because when school and home work together, students succeed.
AF ENY’s program emphasizes rigor and creativity, alongside character and leadership development. Students participate in challenging academics, arts, athletics, and targeted tutoring and enrichment, within a calm, organized environment where a sense of belonging is non-negotiable. Mr. Duncan’s team deeply invests in relationships, celebration, and opportunities that help students discover their strengths and lead confidently, today and into high school, college, and beyond. Excellence Lives Here.
If you’re an educator looking for coaching, rapid growth, and a big impact, or a family searching for a school that understands your child and challenges them to excel, AF East New York Middle School is the right choice.
Contact: shamelduncan@achievementfirst.org