Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, it was well-known across Brooklyn that schools in largely African American and Puerto Rican areas were inferior to those in white neighborhoods. Brooklyn CORE researched the difference in reading and math scores and compared the number and quality of textbooks in schools in white neighborhoods and schools in minority neighborhoods. The results showed huge difference. Years of useless negotiations inspired CORE to consider school boycotts, picketing, and sit-ins at the Board of Education. At the center of CORE"S education initiatives was the Bibuld family.

In 1962, the Bibuld children were assigned to PS 282, a school that their parents thought was below standards. They believed that PS 200, located in a mostly white neighborhood, was a more promising option or their children. however, the Board of Education denied their application. With support from CORE, Mr. and Mrs. Bibuld took their children to PS 200, despite the fact that the children had been refused admission. The Bibuld children were not allowed to officially enroll, but the principal of PS 200 did allow them to stay as guests. The Bibuld family and Brooklyn CORE called this action a school "sit-in." To support the Bibuld children, Brooklyn CORE also organized protests and sit-ins at the Board of Education. Nearly 300 CORE members participated in these activities.