Like biology? Head to Bronx High School of Science. Performing arts? That’s LaGuardia. Changing the world? Take your pick: New York City is home to at least 10 public middle and high schools that aim to inspire students with classes that emphasize community activism and political leadership. The idea first took hold in the early 1990s, but the recent focus on small schools has spawned a whole new generation of activist academies, partly funded by private New Visions grants. The newest addition: Brooklyn’s School for Democracy and Leadership, which opened in Crown Heights this fall. Nobody tracks exactly how many social justice–themed schools are out there, but we found several prime examples. Watch out, City Hall—these kids are ready to rumble.

Take a quick look at New York City’s activist schools