209-12 53rd Ave
Flushing, NY 11364

Benjamin Cardozo High School has a lot of potential, but unfortunately it falls short in several important areas. The biggest issue is the math department. Many of the teachers don’t seem to cater to students with different learning styles, making it difficult for those who need extra support to truly understand the material. The physics curriculum is also confusing and poorly structured, often feeling disconnected and not taught in a way that builds understanding.On the other hand, the school clearly puts much more effort into its History and English departments. Those subjects tend to have stronger teachers and better organized classes, making it clear where the school’s priorities lie.The facilities could also use significant improvement. The locker rooms are often dirty, and there have been times when the bathrooms don’t even have soap available. Small issues like these add up and create an environment that doesn’t feel well maintained.Some staff members, particularly in the cafeteria, can come across as rude and unfriendly, which doesn’t make students feel welcomed or respected. The guidance department is also underwhelming. Counselors have so many students often around 200 each that it’s difficult for them to give individual attention or accurately keep students informed about their academic progress and future planning.The most disappointing part is that the students themselves are generally kind, respectful, and genuinely willing to learn. They have the motivation to succeed, but too often the school fails to provide the support, resources, and environment they deserve. Benjamin Cardozo High School has dedicated students, but it needs to do a much better job of supporting them academically and personally.

This school has left me with lasting trauma regarding my child’s safety. In 2019, my four year old son was able to leave by himself undetected during dismissal. I found him half a block away by himself looking for me. It was pure luck that I was walking toward him and didn’t come up from the other direction. He could have been abducted, hit by a car, you name it. The school has since changed their dismissal procedure. When I called the following day to talk to the principal, they swept my concerns under the rug. Abysmal handling of both safety and justified parent concerns.

A whole new level of terrible administration! I sent emails, but nobody replied except the Assistant Principal. I went in person to submit the required documents, yet nothing was corrected, so I followed up with another email—and again, no response. When I went back in person, they told me the documents were lost, without even an apology. If you ever submit any paperwork to this school, make sure you get a receipt or proof of submission from the person who takes it.

While the buildings are brand new, the "software" of this school which is the people is lacking. The admin staff such as secretary and parent coordinator are cold and generally unhelpful. They never greet kids or parents when I or others parents either late or drop of the kids or pick up kids early. If they don’t know something, they won't go out of their way to help you find out. The school lacks diversity in its programming: no bilingual program such as Chinese or Spanish (being in a very diverse community) and no special education support, no self contained classes . There is ICT classes though. It feels as though they aren't interested in accommodating special need families. They just want you travel further to another school cause the new principal simply doesn’t care. Did I mention there’s no science cluster teacher for years? The class teacher can only cover the minimum and they are not even specialized in Science. Remember we have Science state test for 5th grade. Good luck to those graduates who are entering middle schools with weak fundamentals of science. The playground is tiny with no grass, and the school spirit is low due to a lack of fun activities. Teachers are a mixed bag, some are very responsible and amazing, while others are just doing the bare minimum. You may expect response from those teachers after 2 years when you Dojo them.