Amistad Dual Language School

The numbers here tell a remarkable growth story. In 2016, only about 30% of students were proficient in ELA and 21% in math — well below average. By 2025, those figures climbed to 56.9% in ELA and 63.3% in math, both meaningfully above the District 6 averages of roughly 47% and 52%. Math has been the stronger suit in upper grades, with 87% of fifth-graders and 71% of seventh-graders hitting proficiency. ELA dips a bit in the middle and upper grades (around 49% in grades 6 and 8), suggesting the transition to more demanding content is where students need the most support. The overall score of 2.4 out of 4 places Amistad solidly above the district average of about 2.0 — this is a school on a clear upward trajectory.

The day-to-day feel here seems remarkably positive. Zero suspensions across three consecutive years is genuinely exceptional — not a single student removed. Parent satisfaction sits at 97% (well above the district's 94%) and parent-teacher trust at 98%. Teachers report very high confidence in their principal (97%) and in classroom safety (96%), and instruction quality is rated at 98% versus a district average around 90%. Attendance is solid at 92%, just above the district average. The one real flag is chronic absenteeism at 73.8%, meaning roughly three out of four students missed 10% or more of school days — a significant concern that affects learning continuity even when test scores are rising. That said, the survey response rates are unusually high (79% of families, 32 teachers), so what we're hearing is genuine and not just the most engaged voices.

This is a school that mirrors its neighborhood. About 96% of students identify as Hispanic, with very small percentages of Black, White, Asian, and multiracial students — the diversity index of 12% is among the lowest you'll find. The economic need index of 82.3 reflects a population where most families are working-class or near the poverty line. About 26% of students have IEPs, and ELL support is part of the program mix. Despite modest incomes, families contribute meaningfully — the PTA raised over $47,000 last year, about $120 per student, more than double the district average of $52. That kind of participation tells you families are invested.

Inwood sits at the top of Manhattan, a neighborhood where the median household income is about $63,000 and roughly 15% of residents live below the poverty line. About 15% of households include children, and 40% of adults have a bachelor's degree or higher — a meaningful share for an area with this income profile. Homeownership is very low at just 9%, meaning most families rent. The neighborhood has long been a port of entry for Dominican and other Latino families, and the streets reflect that heritage. It's a working-class community with real cultural depth, where families are building stability and putting down roots.

Three subway options within a short walk: the A train at Dyckman St (about 4 minutes) and Inwood-207 St (about 5 minutes), plus the 1 train at 207 St (about 6 minutes). Families from across upper Manhattan and the Bronx can reach the school without a car.