Comprehensive Model School Project M.S. 327

Math proficiency at 55.3% sits well above the district average of 44.7%, while ELA at 44% tracks roughly with the district. The overall quality score of 1.99/4 exceeds the district average of 1.79, placing this school above many of its District 9 peers. Test scores have fluctuated over the past decade — math dipped to 39% in 2022 before rebounding strongly, while ELA has remained more volatile. Grade-level data shows 7th graders performing strongest in both subjects, suggesting the middle grades are where students tend to catch up.

The survey data tells a striking story: 96% of parents report satisfaction, 96% say they trust teachers, and 97% trust the principal. Teachers give nearly universal marks — 99% say instruction quality is strong and 97% trust the principal. This is rare air in public education. Discipline is virtually nonexistent with just one suspension last year and a 0% suspension rate. Yet attendance is a concern — the 89.4% attendance rate is slightly below district average, and the 62.3% chronic absenteeism rate is high, particularly for female students at 67%. The day-to-day feel seems positive and trusting, but getting students to show up consistently is a struggle.

The student body is 80% Hispanic and 18% Black, reflecting the neighborhood's demographics. With an economic need index of 91.9% — meaning nearly all students qualify for free or reduced lunch — this is a high-need community. A quarter of students have IEPs, and the school offers robust ELL support. The diversity index is low at 32%, but the program richness score of 90/100 indicates the school offers far more than the basics.

Mount Eden-Claremont (West) is a densely populated, working-class Bronx neighborhood with a family density score of 94.64 — it's one of the most family-heavy areas in the city. Transit access is excellent (83.52 score), making commutes manageable. However, safety scores are low (0.77), the poverty rate is 32.3%, and only 16% of adults have a bachelor's degree. There's a notable health environment concern with elevated asthma rates and lead exposure risks. Homeownership is just 4.4%, meaning most families rent.

Transit access is strong, and the neighborhood is highly walkable given its urban density. Families without cars can likely manage, though safety concerns around the area may factor into decisions.