Benjamin Banneker Academy

The school does not report 2024-25 state test scores in this dataset, making direct academic performance comparisons difficult. However, district averages for District 13 show 53% ELA and 46% math proficiency — benchmarks Banneker students would be expected to meet or exceed given the selective admissions process. The average class size of 21.2 matches the district average exactly, and the school offers AP courses alongside ELL support and Spanish language instruction.

Survey responses paint a picture of strong relational trust: 93% of parents trust the principal, 90% trust teachers, and teachers rate instruction quality at 91% with 91% trust in leadership. However, only 22% of families responded to the survey — a relatively low rate that means the 93% satisfaction figure may not reflect all parent perspectives. The school reports zero suspensions, a stark contrast to the district average of 1.4%, suggesting either effective behavior management or a different disciplinary approach.

With 75% Black and 17% Hispanic students, Banneker's enrollment is predominantly students of color in a neighborhood that is 71.5% college-educated but only 13.5% families with children. The diversity index of 43% reflects a student body that is less diverse than many Brooklyn schools, concentrated in two racial groups. At 70%, the economic need index is notably high — indicating significant student poverty — while 17% of students have IEPs. The school draws applicants from across the city, with nearly 1,300 competing for 50 Humanities seats.

Clinton Hill is a transit-rich, education-oriented neighborhood with an 88th percentile transit score and strong 83% education orientation. Median home values exceed $1.1 million, yet the poverty rate is a modest 10.3%. The area scores poorly on safety (35th percentile) and has elevated environmental concerns including air quality indicators and a 7.8% elevated lead rate. This is a neighborhood of professionals and older residents — only 13.5% of households have children, meaning the school population doesn't fully reflect the immediate area's demographics.

Clinton Hill has excellent public transit access (88th percentile) making the school accessible via subway and bus without a car. The area is walkable with tree-lined streets, though parents should note the neighborhood's safety scores are below average.