bronx high school of science
120 East 184th Street (75th West 205th Street, since 1959)

With a reported I.Q. of 137, Bobby Darin had no trouble getting into the prestigious Bronx High School of Science. He graduated in 1953. The school moved to another location in 1959, but we wanted to visit the original building where Bobby attended high school. It is now the home of Elizabeth Barrett Browning Middle School 399. Principal Yolanda Torres graciously welcomed us on May 12, 2006, and took time out of her busy schedule to show us around.

Principal Torres very generously spent a lot of time with us, sharing interesting stories about the history of her school. It was obvious she is very proud of it. We were curious, of course, about whether the building had been renovated since Bobby's day. We discovered that most of the building still contains the original materials. The gymnasium floor, however, was damaged in a flood several years ago and had to be replaced. As you can see from the following pictures, we sat quietly soaking in everything that Principal Torres was kind enough to explain to us. You have never seen students so happy to be in school!

Next, we walked downstairs to the gym where we were treated to an incredible surprise. The students put on a show for us! That morning, over the loudspeaker, Principal Torres had announced to the students that some visitors would be coming to their school today to see where Bobby Darin attended high school. She also played Bobby tunes for them! Now, they were dancing for us to their high energy rhythms. We lined up against the gym wall and watched with delight as these kids jumped and bopped and hopped all around us. They invited us to join them and we did!

In the gym where Bobby Darin performed with a band for the very first time, a new generation of kids were performing for HIS fans. The kids were obviously thrilled, and so were we. The beat surely does go on. It was a moment that would have made Bobby proud.

We will never forget our visit to Elizabeth Barrett Browning Middle School in the Bronx, the former site of The Bronx High School of Science. It was made all the more memorable and special by our gracious and attentive host, Principal Yolanda Torres and Parent Coordinator Tamara Rosado. How lucky those students are to have such fine and caring school administrators. We were very impressed.

As we walked back to our Bronx Trolley to continue our Bobby Darin day, Ms. Torres came out with us to sneak a peek at our trolley and wave good-bye. We have a feeling we may have made her day. We know she made ours!

Thank you, Middle School 399, for a wonderful experience!!!!

For more information, go to The Bronx High School of Science History Page.

Many thanks to Ann, Sandra, and Susan S for the great pictures on this page!