I.S. 238 - Susan B. Anthony Academy

Test scores at this school have more than doubled since 2016 — ELA climbed from 21% to 46% and math from 19% to 48% — a genuine improvement trajectory. However, the school still falls below the District 29 average (57% ELA, 54% math), and science proficiency at 23% is notably low. Grade-level breakdown shows 8th graders outperforming in math (53%) while 6th graders lead in ELA (49%), suggesting stronger math instruction in the upper grades. The overall 1.87 rating out of 4 places it below the district average of 2.21.

The survey data reveals a paradox: families trust leadership enormously (97% parent-principal trust, 93% parent-teacher trust), and teachers report high instruction quality (90%, above the district average). Yet chronic absenteeism at 68% is staggeringly high — among the highest in the area — and the suspension rate of 3% exceeds the district average of less than 1%. The discipline trend is slowly rising (22 suspensions in 2021-22 to 27 in 2023-24), which parents should factor in. The day-to-day feel appears to be one of strong relational culture between staff-families and decent classroom instruction, but with real challenges around student attendance and behavioral interventions.

With 1,023 students across grades 6-8, this school reflects the neighborhood's demographic makeup: 37% Hispanic, 30% Asian, 24% Black, and 7% Native American students. The economic need index of 75% is high — three-quarters of students qualify for free or reduced lunch — and 15% have IEPs. The diversity index of 76% is a real strength, offering kids exposure to multiple backgrounds. Parent survey response rate was modest at 27% (213 responses), though teacher response was stronger at 70 surveys.

The Jamaica neighborhood scores very high on transit (90th percentile) and family density (87th percentile), meaning it's easy to get around without a car and many families with kids live nearby. However, safety scores are low (23rd percentile), and the education orientation is weak (40th percentile), reflecting fewer enrichment options compared to more affluent Queens neighborhoods. Median home values are $616k with a 24% homeownership rate, indicating a primarily renting population.

The area is highly walkable with excellent subway access, though the lower safety score means families may prefer daytime visits. Students from nearby blocks can walk; those from further away rely on the strong transit network.