History

Lyons Community School began as a dream shared by a small group of educators—people who had spent years in small schools and believed deeply in their power. They asked a simple but bold question: What kind of education helps young people grow into thoughtful, joyful, and capable adults?

Their answers came from life itself: time with people who care, meaningful work, movement, creativity, balance, and joy. From these values, Lyons took shape—not just as a school, but as a community where students and adults could grow together.

In 2007, with support from New Visions for Public Schools and the NYC Department of Education, Lyons opened its doors in the William Gaynor Campus at 223 Graham Avenue. We welcomed our first students through a Summer Bridge program and began our journey with two weeks of collaborative planning among staff.

From the start, we’ve built strong partnerships—with the Brooklyn Historical Society, Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, Bent on Learning, and the Lar Lubovitch Dance Company—that enrich our students’ lives and connect us to the wider world.

Today, Lyons is a thriving 6–12 school united by a shared belief in curiosity, creativity, and care. We embrace unconventional learning that prepares students not just for tests or college, but for life—for relationships, for challenges, and for joy. Our intentionally small size ensures that every student is known, supported unconditionally, and given the space to grow. At Lyons, every voice matters, and every day is a chance to unlock unlimited potential.

Lyons Community School is located on the third floor of the historic William J. Gaynor Campus in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We share this vibrant building with two other schools—The Williamsburg High School of Art and Technology (WHSAT) and The Brooklyn Latin School—creating a diverse and dynamic educational environment.

Built in 1936, our building has long been a home for learning. While we share common spaces like the library, auditorium, gymnasium, and cafeteria, each school brings its own spirit and strengths to the campus. Recent renovations have updated the gym to meet PSAL standards and added dedicated science labs for each school.

Within Lyons, our students learn and grow in spaces designed for both academic and creative exploration. In addition to traditional classrooms, we have a dedicated dance studio and art room—places where students can move, create, and express themselves.