I.S. 136 Charles O. Dewey

Test scores remain well below the district average — 36% ELA versus 65% districtwide, 22% math versus 63% — but the eight-year trend shows real momentum. ELA has climbed from 15% in 2016 to 36% in 2025, and math from 10% to 22%. Grade-level data reveals a pattern: 6th and 7th graders perform similarly (around 35% ELA), while 8th graders pull the math average down significantly at 11%, likely reflecting pandemic disruptions to their earlier learning. The overall score of 1.16/4 places this in the lower tier of District 15, but the trajectory matters — this is a school that's been gaining ground.

The climate data tells a complicated story. Parent satisfaction is strong at 92%, with trust in teachers (94%) and the principal (95%) running notably high. Teachers report 94% instruction quality and 84% trust in leadership — solid but not unanimous. The discipline picture is clean: zero suspensions for two years running after five in 2021-22, suggesting a Restorative Circles approach is taking hold. But attendance is a concern — 92% overall attendance masks a 72.6% chronic absenteeism rate, meaning roughly three-quarters of students are missing significant school time. The family survey response rate of 31% (142 responses) is modest, so the positive feedback may not represent every household.

This is a predominantly Hispanic middle school in one of Brooklyn's most working-class neighborhoods. At 77% Hispanic, 9% Asian, and 9% White, the student body reflects Sunset Park's immigrant character. The economic need index of 84% is high — most families qualify for free or reduced lunch — and 28% of students have IEPs. The diversity index sits at 45%, which is moderate. What stands out is the program richness: 90/100 with everything from algebra and Regents prep to gardening, French, dance, and a zoo program. The PTA fundraising is minimal ($13 per student versus $491 district average), reflecting the neighborhood's income constraints.

Sunset Park is a densely populated, immigrant-rich area in southwest Brooklyn with strong family presence (74% family density percentile) but moderate safety concerns (42.5 safety score). The neighborhood has good transit access, a handful of parks including the actual Sunset Park, and many small businesses along 4th and 5th Avenues. Median home values have climbed past $1 million, but median household income sits at $81,000 with a 17% poverty rate — many families are cost-burdened. Air quality (PM2.5) is acceptable, but lead exposure and asthma rates are notable health concerns.

The school is on 4th Avenue near the border of Sunset Park and Greenwood Heights — highly walkable for neighborhood families, with good subway access via the R or F lines a few blocks north.