Lyons Community School

Test scores at Lyons are significantly below the District 14 average — 32.5% ELA proficiency versus 62.4% district-wide, and 18.5% math versus 59.5%. However, the historical trajectory tells a more hopeful story: math climbed from just 1.8% in 2016 to 28.6% in 2024, and ELA reached 32.6% in 2023 after hovering in single digits as recently as 2017. Grade 7 shows the strongest performance (37% ELA, 26.9% math), while younger grades struggle more. The school is clearly improving, but from a very low base — students here are catching up, not leading.

This is where Lyons shines brightest. Parents report 100% satisfaction, 98% trust in teachers, and 100% trust in the principal. Teachers give 95% marks for instruction quality and 96% trust in leadership. There's zero suspensions — a stark contrast to the district average of 0.56%. This suggests a restorative, relationship-based approach to discipline rather than exclusionary practices. However, chronic absenteeism is a serious concern at 50.9% (compared to 88.9% attendance rate district-wide), and the family survey response rate was only 5% — so while the families who responded are highly satisfied, the sample is small. The day-to-day feel appears supportive and trusting, though chronic absenteeism suggests some families struggle with engagement.

Lyons serves 396 students across grades 6-12, with 57% Hispanic, 39% Black, and 33% receiving special education services — the latter a notably high proportion. The economic need index sits at 91.2%, reflecting a student body drawn from the neighborhood's working-class population. This aligns with East Williamsburg's demographics: a historically immigrant, Hispanic, and Black community facing displacement pressures from rapid gentrification. At 48% diversity index, the school reflects its neighborhood's changing face.

East Williamsburg sits in north Brooklyn, known for its mix of industrial history, artist communities, and increasingly affluent new residents. The neighborhood has a safety score of 43.3 (below average), a solid transit score of 61.3, and a family density score of 66.67. Median home values exceed $1 million, yet 24.3% of households live in poverty — reflecting sharp inequality. The area offers several parks and has improved transit options, but families should note the elevated asthma rates (104.4 per 1,000) and lead exposure concerns (21.2% elevated lead rate).

The school is located in a walkable area of East Williamsburg, accessible by multiple subway lines. Families from nearby neighborhoods can typically walk or take short bus rides, though traffic and parking can be challenging during school hours.