Academy for Young Writers

The school's ELA proficiency at 46.2% sits just below the district average of 48.9%, while math at 16.7% is dramatically lower than the district average of 48.2% — a significant gap that puts this school near the bottom of District 19. However, the long-term trend shows real progress: ELA climbed from 26% in 2016 to the mid-40s in recent years, and math improved from single digits to the mid-teens, with a recent peak of 23.7% in 2023 before dipping again. Grade-level data reveals a stark divide: 7th graders perform notably better (59.5% ELA, 25% math) while 6th graders struggle significantly (27.6% ELA, just 3.7% math), suggesting the transition to middle school is a particular challenge.

The school reports zero suspensions — a notable achievement in a district where the average suspension rate is 1.6% — suggesting a focus on restorative approaches. Family survey results are exceptionally strong: 92% of parents report satisfaction, 95% trust teachers, and 97% trust the principal. However, teacher surveys tell a more nuanced story: while 85% rate instruction quality acceptable, teacher-principal trust sits at 81% and collegial trust at only 73%, with a small sample of just 44 teacher responses. The low family survey response rate (26%) also means the glowing trust numbers may not represent all families.

The student body is 63% Black and 32% Hispanic, with minimal Asian (3%) and White (2%) enrollment — reflecting the demographics of the surrounding Spring Creek-Starrett City neighborhood. Nearly a quarter of students (24%) have IEPs, and the economic need index of 86% indicates almost all families face significant financial challenges. The diversity index of 49% is moderate, though the school population is far less diverse than the city overall.

Spring Creek-Starrett City is a predominantly low-income residential area in eastern Brooklyn with limited family resources — only 4.8% of households have children, one of the lowest family-density scores in the city. Median household income is $41,167, and just 24% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher. Safety indicators show elevated concerns: crime density is high, and asthma-related emergency department visits (104 per 1,000) and elevated lead rates (20%) suggest environmental health challenges. Transit access is limited (40.6 percentile), and the area scores low on education orientation.

The neighborhood is largely residential and car-dependent for most families. Students from further away rely on public transit, which has limited coverage in this area compared to more central Brooklyn neighborhoods.