Launch Expeditionary Learning Charter School

This school has pulled off something notable: math proficiency jumped from 16.8% in 2016 to 64.7% in 2025 — a nearly 48-point gain that now puts it well above the district average of 57%. ELA improved from 15.4% to 55.2%, sitting just slightly below the 57.6% district average. The 2.4 overall score edges out the district average of 2.29. Grade-level data shows strong performance across 6th-8th, with 7th grade math particularly strong at 68.9%. This is a school that has clearly found what works — the question is whether it can sustain and continue climbing.

The survey data tells a striking story: 98% of parents rate teacher instruction quality as high, 96% are satisfied overall, and trust metrics hover between 95-99% across parent-teacher, parent-principal, and teacher-principal relationships. These numbers are substantially above district averages. However, the 58.5% chronic absenteeism rate — with Black students at 62% and Hispanic students at 46% — signals that getting students to school consistently remains a serious challenge. The 88.9% attendance rate matches the district average, suggesting the school is performing at parity rather than outperforming on attendance despite its strong climate scores.

This is a predominantly Black school in a neighborhood that, while diverse, has shifted demographically. With 82% Black and 12% Hispanic students, the school reflects the community's Black majority. The 82.9% economic need index is high — most students come from households facing significant financial challenges. At 267 students across grades 6-9 plus special education, it's a small school where most families know each other, which likely contributes to the exceptional trust scores. The 26% IEP population is notable and suggests robust special education services.

Crown Heights North is a transit-rich, family-dense area (90/100 family density score) with excellent subway access but significant safety concerns. The safety score of 13.79 is notably low, and crime density is elevated. However, the education orientation score of 77 suggests many families here prioritize schooling, and the 42.4% BA+ education rate indicates a educated parent population. Median home values exceed $1 million, yet homeownership is only 16.4% — most families rent. Parks and family resources exist, but safety perceptions likely shape daily routines.

The neighborhood's transit score is excellent, but safety concerns and environmental factors (elevated PM2.5, asthma rates) may affect how families commute and whether they walk, especially during darker months or evening activities