Patrick Wall closely covers the New York City public school system, showcasing the hope and heartbreak of urban schools.

• At Boys and Girls High School, Struggling Students Urged to Transfer, Sources Say
• City’s Community Schools Plan Stirs Doubt Among Supporters
• While Some Struggling Schools Get Extra Attention, Others Wait for More Help
• City Invests in New Efforts to Help Struggling Readers, But Some Say More Is Needed
• A Pivotal Moment for a School and the Program Designed to Improve It
• Evaluation Delays Leave Some Students With Disabilities Waiting for Help
• Nearly a Year After New York City Principals Float Diversity Plans, City Has Yet to Sign Off

Comments from the Judges:

“I felt that I was in the schools that Patrick Wall visited and he also explained complicated public issues in a very understandable and attractive manner. These stories also felt like the work of real intensive beat coverage, sticking to and exploring one gigantic institution – NYC schools – and doing a great job of it under some tough circumstances.”

“Very impressive set of stories that [are made possible] only through the relationships and source-building that comes from aggressively covering a beat, building trust and spending time inside the schools.”

“Patrick Wall really knows New York City public schools. This is in-depth, smart, watchdog reporting, with a sharp eye for detail. This guy is clearly well sourced!”