M.S. 390

Test scores at M.S. 390 remain below the district average — 40% ELA versus 45% districtwide, 39.6% math versus 43.5% — but the trajectory tells a different story. In 2016, just 10.7% of students were proficient in ELA and 9.1% in math. By 2025, those numbers hit 40% and 39.6% respectively. That's genuine growth, not a fluke. Grade 8 math is particularly strong at 54%, suggesting the school is getting something right as students move through the building. The overall quality score of 1.59/4 trails the district average of 1.77, but the gap is closing.

Here's where M.S. 390 gets complicated — and interesting. Parents absolutely love this school: 97% satisfaction, 98% trust in teachers, 97% trust in the principal. These numbers blow the district averages out of the water. Teachers, though, are less bullish — 80% report trust in leadership and rate instruction quality at 80%, both below district averages. Attendance is decent at 92%, but chronic absenteeism is a serious issue at nearly 74%, well above district norms. Suspensions sit at 2% — higher than the district average of 0.28% but relatively stable after a spike in 2022-23. The day-to-day feel seems to be one where families feel heard and respected, but where teachers may be navigating challenging circumstances.

This is a predominantly Hispanic school — 82% of students, compared to a neighborhood that's similarly majority Hispanic. About 15% of students are Black, with almost no Asian or white students. Nearly a quarter of students have IEPs, and the economic need index sits at 92.5%, meaning virtually all families qualify for free or reduced lunch. This is a school serving students who face significant out-of-school challenges — and the demographics reflect that reality.

The neighborhood scores reveal tradeoffs. Safety scores a low 6.13 — a real concern for families. Transit access is strong at nearly 70, making commutes manageable. Family density is exceptionally high at 94, meaning lots of kids in the area. Education orientation is low at 30, which tracks with lower parental education rates (only 15% have bachelor's degrees). Median household income is just $32,000, and poverty hits 37%. There are parks and transit options nearby, but families are navigating a neighborhood where resources are stretched.

The area is walkable with decent transit connections, though safety concerns on the streets may factor into how families get to school. Many students likely walk or take local buses.