Brooklyn School of Inquiry

Test scores here are extraordinary — 93.7% ELA and 94% math proficiency dwarf the district averages of 60% and 63%, and the school regularly outperforms peer institutions in District 21. Looking at the grade-level breakdown, performance is consistently strong from third through eighth grade, with eighth graders hitting a stunning 98.1% proficiency in both subjects. The 2025 scores represent a notable recovery from a dip in 2022, suggesting the school has regained its momentum after the pandemic disruption.

The survey data paints a remarkably positive picture. Parents report 92% satisfaction, 96% trust in teachers, and 94% trust in the principal — numbers that reflect a school where families feel heard and valued. Teachers themselves rate instruction quality at 97% and report 99% safety, suggesting strong professional confidence. The zero suspension rate across three consecutive years indicates a discipline approach focused on restoration rather than exclusion, which aligns with programs like Restorative Circles. The one note of caution is teacher-principal trust at 88% — lower than other dimensions but still healthy.

The student body is majority white (58%) with significant Asian representation (27%), reflecting both the school's screened admissions and the demographics of the broader Gravesend neighborhood. The diversity index of 62% is moderate for the area, and with an economic need index of 33.5%, families here are relatively stable economically. Only 9% of students have IEPs, which is notably low and may reflect the school's screened nature. ELL support is offered, though the 4% Hispanic population suggests limited English Language Learner services are needed.

Gravesend is a predominantly residential, family-dense neighborhood in southwestern Brooklyn, known for its strong community ties and relative affordability compared to nearby Manhattan Beach or Sheepshead Bay. The neighborhood scores well on family density (85th percentile) and education orientation (63rd percentile), meaning families here prioritize schooling. Transit access is solid (70th percentile), making commutes feasible. However, safety scores are moderate (47th percentile), and the area has some environmental health concerns — elevated lead rates and asthma indicators that any parent should be aware of when considering outdoor activities.

Gravesend is a walkable neighborhood with good local traffic. Families in the immediate area can walk, while those from further afield rely on the B1 bus and nearby subway lines. The school's location on Avenue P is accessible from the neighborhood's residential streets.