Academy of Exploratory Arts

Test scores have climbed steadily from 22.4% ELA in 2016 to 42.1% in 2025, and math improved dramatically from 9.4% in 2022 to 37.3% last year — a 28-point jump in just three years. However, the school still trails district averages (51% ELA, 49% math) by about 9-12 percentage points. Grade 4 performs strongest with 50% ELA proficiency, while Grade 5 struggles in math at just 17.6%. The overall quality score of 1.59 out of 4 sits below the district average of 2.0, indicating the school is still building toward peer performance.

Families report extremely high trust in teachers (95%) and the principal (92%), and 91% say strong relationships define the school community. Parent satisfaction runs at 90%, slightly below the 93.5% district average. However, teachers report concerning safety perceptions (62% vs. 80.5% district average) and lower instruction quality ratings (70% vs. 88% district). The attendance picture is challenging: 89.4% daily attendance but a steep 65.1% chronic absenteeism rate, with female students missing more school than males (71% vs 60%). The discipline record is spotless — zero suspensions for three years running.

The student body is predominantly Hispanic (76%) with 23% Black students and very small populations of other groups. Nearly all students (93%) qualify for free or reduced lunch, reflecting the neighborhood's high economic need. With only 234 students across PK-5 and an average class size of 20.5, this is a small school where families can expect personal attention. Twenty percent of students have IEPs, slightly above typical.

Mott Haven-Port Morris is one of the highest-poverty neighborhoods in New York City, with median household income around $29,000 and a 40% poverty rate. Only 12% of adults have bachelor's degrees, and 94% of residents rent rather than own. The area scores very low on safety (17th percentile) and education orientation (5th percentile), though transit access is moderate. Families should expect a neighborhood where economic hardship is visible and resources are stretched.

Given the neighborhood's low safety score and limited family-oriented infrastructure, most families likely drive or use public transit. The school is accessible but families should consider the practical realities of getting children to and from school in an area with significant population turnover and transient residents.