Learners and Leaders

Test scores at Learners and Leaders sit below District 24 averages — 45.3% ELA proficiency versus the district's 51.1%, and 37.9% math versus 54.8%. The school's overall quality rating of 1.66/4 also trails the district average of 2.12. Looking at trends, both subjects have been volatile: math peaked at 57.3% in 2016, dropped to 36.1% in 2022, rebounded to 50% in 2023, then fell again to 37.9% in 2025. Performance improves notably in upper grades — 5th graders hit 61.2% ELA and 50% math — suggesting students who stay through elementary make meaningful progress, but the school struggles with early literacy and numeracy foundations.

The survey data tells a striking story: this is a school where people genuinely trust each other. Parent satisfaction sits at 94%, parent-teacher trust at 97%, and parent-principal trust at an exceptional 98%. Teachers report 88% instruction quality and 98% feeling safe — well above the district average for safety. Strong relationships between families and staff rate 96%. However, chronic absenteeism of 69.5% dramatically undermines classroom learning — only about 30% of students attend consistently. The school has maintained zero suspensions for three consecutive years, reflecting a discipline philosophy centered on keeping students in class and building relationships rather than removing them.

The student body is 77% Hispanic, reflecting Ridgewood's neighborhood demographics, with 11% white, 8% Asian, and small populations of Black, Multi-Racial, and Native American students. Economic need is high at 72.9%, and 23% of students have IEPs — both well above typical district averages. PTA fundraising totals $16,761 ($33 per student), slightly above the district average of $32 per student, indicating engaged families despite economic challenges. The diversity index of 46% is moderate for Queens.

Ridgewood is a working-class Queens neighborhood with a median household income of $83,559, 12.6% poverty rate, and only 20.4% homeownership — mostly renters. The area scores poorly on safety (40th percentile) and education orientation (38th percentile), but has strong transit access (73rd percentile) and decent family density (61st percentile). The neighborhood has a blue-collar identity with strong immigrant roots, good local restaurants, and access to parks. Safety indicators show elevated asthma rates and some environmental concerns (PM2.5 levels), though crime density is moderate.

Ridgewood is a walkable neighborhood where many families arrive on foot; the area has good public transit connections making car-free commuting feasible for most families.