FDNY - Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety

State test proficiency data was not available for this school, making it difficult to directly benchmark academic performance against district averages. However, the school matches the district average class size at 21.8 students, and teacher-reported instruction quality (94%) exceeds the district average (88%) — a strong signal that classrooms are functioning well from the educators' perspective. AP courses are offered, though the specific number is not disclosed.

The survey data tells a striking story: parent satisfaction at 99% and nearly universal trust between families and both teachers (100%) and the principal (100%). Teacher collegial trust is exceptionally high at 97%, and teacher-principal trust sits at 95%. The school reports zero suspensions — a notable data point in a district where the average suspension rate is 1.56%. This combination suggests a school that has built strong relational foundations and addresses student behavior through restorative or supportive approaches rather than removals. The trade-off: family survey response rate is relatively low at 23%, meaning these strong numbers reflect a subset of engaged families.

The student body is 61% Black, 32% Hispanic, 2% Asian, 3% White, and 1% Native American — reflecting the demographics of East New York, which has historically been one of Brooklyn's most culturally rich and predominantly Black and Hispanic neighborhoods. With 40% of students receiving IEP services and an economic need index of 81.3%, the school serves a population with significant support needs. The diversity index of 50% indicates moderate demographic diversity within the school.

East New York is a Brooklyn neighborhood with deep roots in working-class history and a growing population of young families. It scores well on transit access (71st percentile) and family density (68th percentile), making it practical for commuters. However, it scores low on safety (25th percentile), education orientation (30th percentile), and stability (2nd percentile). The median household income is $57,841 with a 25% poverty rate, and only 30% of residents own homes. Families should know the neighborhood has faced disinvestment historically, though it also has strong community networks and increasing development. Lead exposure rates (16.3%) and asthma rates (104 per 1,000) are elevated compared to city averages, which are health considerations for families.

The neighborhood is moderately walkable with good transit access. Pennsylvania Avenue is a major corridor with bus service. Families traveling from other parts of Brooklyn or Queens will rely on public transit or car.