High School for Community Leadership

This school didn't report state test scores in the data provided, so direct academic comparisons to district averages (ELA 63%, Math 63%) aren't possible. However, 97% of teachers rate their own instruction quality as high — notably above the district average of 92% — suggesting strong classroom dynamics. The school offers AP courses alongside ELL support and world languages (French and Spanish), covering the expected academic bases for a comprehensive high school.

The culture here is the story. Parent satisfaction hits 94% (above the district average of 93%), and trust metrics are extraordinary: 98% of parents trust teachers, 98% trust the principal, and a perfect 100% of teachers trust the principal and each other. That's rare in any school. Attendance sits at 91%, matching the district average exactly. There's been not a single suspension recorded — zero — which either reflects excellent behavior or a disciplinary approach that avoids removing students from class. With 17% of students having IEPs, the school appears to serve a meaningful population with special needs.

With 458 students, this is a small high school — intimate enough that teachers likely know most students by name. Demographics lean heavily Black (30%) and Hispanic (34%), with significant Asian representation (24%) and very few white students (5%). The diversity index of 75% reflects a racially mixed student body. Economic need sits at 67%, meaning a majority of students come from households facing financial challenges. Seventeen percent have IEPs, indicating meaningful special education services.

Jamaica Hills-Briarwood is a residential Queens neighborhood with a median home value of $612,000 and median household income around $84,000 — solidly middle-class, with 39.6% homeownership. About 23% of households have children, and 44% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The area scores in the middle on most measures: moderate safety (47th percentile), modest transit access (28th percentile), and decent family orientation (47th percentile). There's a notable asthma concern in the area (54.6 per 1,000 ER visits), worth knowing for families managing respiratory health.

Families typically arrive by bus or car — the neighborhood's transit score is relatively low, and Gothic Drive isn't on a major subway line. Most students commute from elsewhere in District 28, so travel time can vary significantly depending on where in Queens families live.