Kingsborough Early College School

Test scores here sit below the District 21 average — 53% ELA versus 60% district-wide, 49% math versus 63% — but the picture is more nuanced than a simple comparison. Math has nearly doubled from a 30.6% proficiency low in 2016 to 49.1% in 2025, with a notable jump to 50.4% in 2023. ELA has been steadier, hovering around 50% since 2018. Grade-level breakdown shows middle school performing strongest, particularly 8th grade (56% ELA, 55% math), suggesting the early college pipeline may be working as students advance. Science at 56% is solid. The overall 2.04/4 score reflects these mixed results — respectable but not top-tier.

This is a school where the adults are aligned and families feel heard, but attendance is a real problem. Parent satisfaction hits 94%, and trust in the principal reaches an exceptional 99%. Teachers report 99% instruction quality and 97% collegial trust — these are numbers most schools would envy. Discipline is exemplary: zero suspensions. Yet chronic absenteeism sits at 60.2%, with Hispanic students (65%) and males (66.3%) particularly affected. This suggests a gap between what families believe about the school and whether students actually show up. The survey response rates are low (11% families, 44 teacher responses), so take the glowing trust numbers with some caution — they reflect respondents, not necessarily the full community.

With 739 students across grades 6-12 and a diversity index of 75%, Kingsborough Early College is notably diverse compared to its neighborhood. The student body is 38% Hispanic, 28% White, 23% Black, and 8% Asian, while Gravesend itself is more homogeneous with a 35% BA+ education rate and $58K median household income. The 73% economic need index indicates most families face significant financial challenges. At 19%, the IEP population is meaningful, suggesting the school serves a range of learning needs. The 28% White enrollment is notably higher than many district schools, possibly reflecting screened admissions patterns.

Gravesend in south Brooklyn offers a classic outer-borough family feel — moderate home values ($630K), moderate safety scores, and a 17.9% household-with-children rate that suggests more singles and couples than families with kids. The neighborhood has solid transit access and moderate education orientation, though it's not as family-dense as some nearby areas. Crime density is notable (1,178 per 100K), and asthma rates (104 per 10K) suggest environmental health considerations. For families, the area provides affordable(ish) Brooklyn living with good sports facilities and neighborhood restaurants, though it's a commute from Manhattan.

Gravesend is car-friendly with moderate walkability. Families from outside the neighborhood likely need to commute — the 10% acceptance rate suggests many applicants travel from other parts of District 21 and beyond.