Ampark Neighborhood

These numbers tell a remarkable story — Ampark's 77.2% math proficiency blows past the District 10 average of 43.5% by a full 34 percentage points, and ELA at 64.3% is nearly 20 points above the district average. The trajectory is striking: math has climbed steadily from 48.7% in 2016 to 77.2% this year, with particularly strong growth in the past three years. Grade 5 students are performing at 88.4% math proficiency — genuinely exceptional for the Bronx. This isn't a school coasting on neighborhood advantages; it's posting these numbers with 48.3% economic need index.

Parents love the instruction quality — 96% rate it highly, and 91% say they're satisfied overall. Teacher-reported safety is a perfect 100%, which is remarkable. But there's a red flag in the data: teacher-principal trust sits at just 48%, far below the collegial trust of 95% among teachers themselves. This suggests a disconnect between staff and leadership that parents may not see day-to-day but could affect school stability. Attendance is a mixed picture — 93.5% daily attendance is solid, but the 79.6% chronic absenteeism rate is alarmingly high, meaning roughly 4 in 5 students missed significant school time. There have been zero suspensions in three years, which reflects either excellent behavior or a very restorative approach.

The student body is 60% Hispanic, reflecting the neighborhood's demographics, with 15% White, 13% Black, and smaller Asian and Multi-Racial populations. At 67% diversity index, it's moderately diverse. The 20% IEP population is typical for the Bronx. PTA fundraising of $145 per student is about double the district average, showing engaged families willing to chip in — that $49K total goes a long way in a school of 341 students.

Kingsbridge Heights-Van Cortlandt Village is a Transit-rich, working-class Bronx neighborhood where families make up 86% of the population density — this is a place where kids are everywhere. Median income is modest at $55K, and only 18% of residents own homes, so most families are renting. The area scores well on stability (84%) but flags on education orientation (36%) and safety (7.66 score). Air quality (PM2.5) is moderate, and lead exposure rates are a concern at 18%. There are green spaces nearby, and the Transit score of 82 makes commuting manageable.

The neighborhood is walkable and well-served by subway lines, making it accessible for families without cars — though the safety score is low, families report feeling secure in the school community