I.S. 5 - The Walter Crowley Intermediate School

I.S. 5 performs modestly above the district average in ELA (56.2% vs. 51.1%) but slightly below in math (53.2% vs. 54.8%). The school shows a volatile test score history — ELA peaked at 62.9% in 2018, dropped to 60.9% in 2022, and has stabilized around 56%. Grade 7 students perform significantly stronger (65.9% math, 62.9% ELA) while Grade 6 lags considerably behind (39.4% math, 49.5% ELA), suggesting a transition challenge for incoming sixth-graders. Science proficiency at 32.1% is notably lower thanELA and math, which is a gap worth watching for families prioritizing STEM preparation.

The survey data reveals a school where relationships between families and staff are unusually strong — parent trust in teachers and the principal both hit 95%, and 91% of parents report satisfaction. Teachers likewise report high instruction quality (94%) and solid collegial trust (85%), though teacher-principal trust sits slightly lower at 85%. The 2% suspension rate is notably higher than the district average of 0.175%, and the school has maintained 20 suspensions annually over the past three years. With 74% chronic absenteeism — particularly striking at 86.8% for Asian students and 66.9% for Hispanic students — the school faces a significant attendance engagement challenge that affects classroom dynamics.

With 60% Hispanic and 35% Asian students, I.S. 5 is a majority-minority school that reflects Woodside’s immigrant-rich character. The diversity index of 48% is moderate, and the economic need index of 77.6% indicates most families face significant financial challenges. Eighteen percent of students have IEPs, and the school offers ELL support — a critical program for the neighborhood’s many bilingual families. Parent fundraising is minimal ($8 per student, well below the $32 district average), suggesting limited discretionary resources for enrichment programs.

Woodside is a dense, working-class Queens neighborhood with strong immigrant roots — the median household income of $74,765 and homeownership rate of 33% reflect a community of renters and first-time homeowners. The neighborhood scores well on family density (67th percentile) and health environment (68th), with decent transit access (50th percentile). Crime density and collision rates are notable concerns (both above average), and childhood lead exposure (12.6%) and asthma rates (54.6 per 1,000) are elevated — environmental factors that matter for families with health-conscious priorities. The area offers good access to parks and community resources.

Woodside is a highly walkable neighborhood with excellent public transit options — the 61st Street-Broadway and Woodside Avenue stations on the 7 train are nearby, along with numerous bus routes. Many families likely walk or take public transit, though the area’s traffic and collision rates suggest parents should discuss pedestrian safety with incoming middle schoolers.