Fordham High School for the Arts

State test proficiency data isn't provided, so we can't directly compare this school's academic performance to the district's 45% ELA and 44% Math averages. What we do know: the school offers AP courses and a robust Regents Academy, and maintains an average class size of 22.9 — identical to the district average. The program richness score of 90/100 suggests strong academic offerings, but without proficiency data, parents are flying somewhat blind on academic outcomes.

The survey data here is remarkable. Parents report near-universal satisfaction (99%), and trust in both teachers and the principal hits the same high mark — an unusually strong alignment. Teachers report 91% collegial trust and 82% trust in leadership, though teacher-rated instruction quality (83%) sits below the district average of 91%. With zero suspensions and 100% family survey response rate, the school has clearly built a culture where families feel engaged and heard. The day-to-day feel appears collaborative and trusting, though teacher instruction quality may be an area to watch.

With 61% Hispanic and 31% Black students, the school mirrors Belmont's predominantly Latino community. The diversity index of 53% reflects a school that's culturally unified but not monolithic. Notably, 24% of students have IEPs — slightly higher than many District 10 peers — suggesting the school supports a meaningful population of students with special needs. At 396 students across four grades, it's a mid-sized high school that feels personal.

Belmont is a dense, transit-accessible neighborhood in the central Bronx — home to the famous Arthur Avenue retail market and a mix of family-owned businesses. The area has a low homeownership rate (3.8%) and high poverty (38%), but also shows stability (68%) and decent transit options. Families should know the neighborhood scores poorly on safety (2.3 percentile) and has elevated asthma rates and lead exposure risks — environmental health factors that matter for families with young children or sensitivities.

Belmont is pedestrian-friendly and well-served by the Bx12 bus and nearby Metro-North. Many students walk or take public transit from surrounding blocks.