Corona Arts & Sciences Academy

Test scores here are below the district average: 32% in ELA versus 51% district-wide, and 25% in math versus 55% district-wide. The school has hovered in this range for years — scores dipped significantly in 2022 (math dropped to 10%) but recovered. Grade-level data shows Grade 8 performing slightly better in math (27%) than Grade 6-7, suggesting some growth as students move through. Science proficiency sits at 24%. The overall quality score of 1.15 out of 4 places this school in the lower tier of District 24.

Here's what stands out: despite academic challenges, parent trust in teachers and the principal both hit 97%, and parent satisfaction sits at 92% — nearly matching the district average. Teachers report 86% instruction quality and 87% trust in leadership, though collegial trust among staff is lower at 76%. Attendance is slightly better than district average at 93%, but chronic absenteeism is a serious issue at nearly 80% — meaning most students miss significant school time. On discipline, the school has almost eliminated suspensions (0%), with only 3 total in the most recent year. The vibe is clear: this is a school that's prioritized relationship-building and safety over punitive discipline, and families have noticed.

The student body is 97% Hispanic, reflecting the neighborhood's demographics. Nearly a quarter of students have IEPs, and the school offers ELL support. Economic need is extremely high at 90%, meaning almost all families qualify for free or reduced lunch. At 741 students across grades 6-8 with an average class size of 24.5 (matching the district average), this is a mid-sized middle school. The diversity index is very low at 10%, which is important context for families seeking exposure to diverse backgrounds.

Corona is a working-class Queens neighborhood known for its large Latino population, family density (in the 90th percentile), and community feel. Median household income is around $66,000, and only 16% of adults have a bachelor's degree. The neighborhood scores poorly on safety (33/100) and education orientation (18/100), with elevated asthma rates and lead exposure concerns. However, it's family-dense and has decent transit access. The community is tight-knit, and many families have multi-generational roots here.

The neighborhood is relatively walkable, and many families in this area live within walking distance since it's a zoned school. For those coming from further afield, the area has bus access, though transit scores are moderate (45/100).