Cardinal McCloskey Community Charter School

Cardinal McCloskey posts strong proficiency scores that place it well above the District 10 average — math at 67.9% versus the district's 43.5%, and ELA at 55.7% versus 45%. However, these numbers mask a bumpy historical trajectory: math scores swung from 36% to 32% to 39% to 68% over four years, while ELA jumped from 15% to 42% to 32% to 56%. The grade-level breakdown reveals a pattern where third graders perform exceptionally (77% ELA, 84% math), but scores dip noticeably in fourth and fifth grades. This suggests strong early gains that may require additional support to sustain as students advance.

The survey data tells a remarkably consistent story: families and teachers love this school. Parent satisfaction sits at 96%, with parent-teacher trust and parent-principal trust both at 97%. Teachers report 96% instruction quality and 99% trust in the principal — nearly unanimous. Safety is perceived as strong at 98% teacher-reported. However, there's a notable gap: teacher collegial trust drops to 75%, and only 17 teachers responded to the survey, making that figure less reliable. The attendance picture is concerning: while the 90% attendance rate roughly matches the district average, chronic absenteeism is alarmingly high at 58% — well above what's typical. This suggests a significant portion of students are missing substantial school time, which could explain the score gaps between third and upper grades.

With 279 students in grades K-5, this is a small school where families are likely to know each other. The student body is predominantly Hispanic (76%) with significant Black enrollment (18%), closely mirroring Belmont's demographics. Nearly one in five students has an IEP, and the economic need index of 89.6% indicates almost all families qualify for free or reduced lunch. The diversity index of 41% reflects a school that's diverse by ethnicity but fairly homogeneous in socioeconomic status — everyone here is in similar economic circumstances, which can foster a strong sense of community. The 59% family survey response rate suggests moderate but not universal engagement.

Belmont is a tight-knit, working-class Bronx neighborhood known for its strong Italian heritage and family-oriented feel, though its demographics have shifted to predominantly Hispanic. The area has a low safety score (2.3 out of 100) and high crime density, which parents should factor into their commute and after-school plans. Transit access is decent (58.62), making the school reachable by bus. Environmental health concerns are notable — asthma rates are high and lead exposure affects 15% of children tested. The neighborhood has a family density score of 55.56, meaning you'll see other kids around, and a stability score of 67.82 suggesting many long-term residents. Median income is just under $33,000 and homeownership is nearly nonexistent at 3.8%, so most families rent.

Families walk and take public transit. The neighborhood is densely populated and transit-connected, though parents should be aware of the area's safety challenges when planning routes and after-school logistics.