Opened as P.S. 187 in 1952, to serve the city's general student population during Mayor Vincent Impellitteri's administration, the renamed Marathon School today caters to approximately 175 special needs children and young adults up to age 21. With dozens of faculty members serving youngsters from across the city, the Marathon School's credo includes teaching skills in communication, collaboration, technology and independent living. The school seeks to instill a strong work ethic, and students are encouraged to perform public service at sites throughout the community. Construction on a new workout facility and playground geared to children with disabilities in the school's former parking lot is expected to be complete by late 2010 or early 2011.