Future Leaders Institute Charter School

Test scores show a school performing below district averages — ELA proficiency at 46.9% versus the district average of 59.3%, and math at 43.2% versus 54%. The overall score of 1.8/4 falls below the district average of 2.27. However, historical data reveals an upward trajectory: math climbed from 22.9% in 2016 to 50% in 2024 (though dipping slightly to 43.2% in 2025), and ELA improved from 28.2% to 46.9% over the same period. Grade-level data shows strong upper-grade performance (Grade 7: 62.2% ELA, 60% math) but struggling younger grades (Grade 4: 23.1% ELA, Grade 6: 20% math), suggesting inconsistency across the K-8 span.

The school's climate data reveals a paradox: extremely strong relationships paired with notable challenges. Parent satisfaction (94%) and parent-teacher trust (98%) far exceed district averages, and teachers report near-universal trust in leadership (97%) and collegial bonds (95%). However, teacher-reported safety (82%) falls well below the district average of 94%, and chronic absenteeism is a serious concern at 49.2% — nearly half of students are chronically absent. The attendance rate of 87.8% also trails the district average of 90.4%. These numbers suggest a school where families and staff feel connected but where getting students to school consistently remains a daily struggle.

This is a highly homogeneous school in a neighborhood that has seen demographic shifts. The student body is 72% Black and 25% Hispanic, with essentially no Asian, white, or multi-racial students — a diversity index of 40% reflects this. The school serves a very high-need population: 85.9% economic need index and 16% IEP students. In context, the surrounding Harlem (South) neighborhood has a 20.3% poverty rate and median household income of $68,758, suggesting the school draws from families facing significant economic challenges.

Harlem (South) is a transit-rich, family-dense neighborhood with serious safety considerations. The area scores 98.85 on transit access (nearly perfect) and 95.4 on family density, meaning families are everywhere. However, the safety score of 1.15 (percentile-ranked) indicates elevated crime density. Education orientation scores 76.25, reflecting strong community emphasis on schools. The median home value of $1.3 million suggests gentrification pressures, while only 18.2% homeownership indicates most families rent. Lead exposure and asthma rates are notable health concerns in the area.

Excellent transit access makes car-free commuting viable for most families, though the neighborhood's safety score suggests parents should be mindful of routes and timing