Academy of Applied Mathematics and Technology

Test scores here are mixed — math proficiency jumped from 26% in 2022 to 53% in 2024, a major turnaround, while ELA has held steady around 42-44% for the past four years. Compared to the district average (51% ELA, 49% math), this school is slightly below in reading but competitive in math. The overall quality score of 1.8/4 falls just below the district average of 2.0. Grade-level data shows 7th graders outperforming peers (49% ELA, 57% math), suggesting the school may be stronger at building skills as students move through the grades.

The numbers tell a mixed story. On the positive side: teachers love working here — 95% trust the principal, 97% trust their colleagues, and 92% rate instruction quality above the district average. Parents are also largely on board, with 98% trusting the principal and 90% satisfied overall. The school has nearly eliminated suspensions (just 1 last year, down from 3 in 2021-22). However, there's a serious attendance problem: 75% of students are chronically absent, far above what's typical. This isn't a discipline or safety issue — it's a structural challenge in a neighborhood where families face housing instability, health crises, and economic stress that make consistent school attendance difficult.

The student body is predominantly Hispanic (67%) and Black (30%), reflecting the neighborhood demographics. Nearly all students (95%) qualify for free lunch, and 27% have IEPs — a higher-than-average special education population. At 288 students across three grades, it's a small school where most kids know each other. The diversity index of 43% is relatively low given the demographic makeup, essentially split between two major ethnic groups.

Mott Haven-Port Morris is one of the city's most economically challenged neighborhoods. Median household income is just $29,000, 40% of residents live in poverty, and only 12% have a bachelor's degree. The area scores very low on safety (17th percentile) and family density (24th percentile), though it has decent transit access. There's a high lead exposure rate (12%) and elevated asthma rates, indicating environmental health concerns. Many families here are renters (only 6% homeownership) and may be dealing with housing instability.

Families walk to this neighborhood school, though the area's low safety score means parents of younger children often accompany them. The school is accessible by bus and subway, with moderate transit options nearby.