M.S. K394

Test scores at M.S. K394 have been volatile but show meaningful improvement. The 2025 scores (ELA 47.2%, Math 41.5%) represent a significant jump from 2022's low points (18.8% ELA, 6.7% math) and even outpace pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Science proficiency at 66.7% is notably stronger than literacy and math. However, both ELA and math remain below the district averages of 60.5% and 57.3% respectively — students here are catching up, not leading. Grade-level data shows Grade 6 performing strongest in ELA (62.5%) while Grade 7 excels in math (65.5%), suggesting uneven growth across subjects and grades.

The survey data tells a remarkable story: 98% of families report satisfaction, 99% trust teachers, and 100% report strong relationships — these numbers are exceptional. Teachers report 98% instruction quality and 100% trust in the principal, indicating strong leadership alignment. Safety perception is high at 98% among teachers. However, there's a significant tension: chronic absenteeism sits at 51.2%, meaning more than half of students are missing significant school time. Attendance (88.8%) trails the district average. The suspension rate of 2% is low and consistent with prior years. The high family survey response rate (94%) suggests engaged families, but the attendance picture raises questions about whether that engagement translates to daily attendance.

This is a small school with 273 students serving grades PK through 8, with a heavy focus on middle school. The student body is predominantly Black (70%) with Hispanic students comprising 22% and Asian students 7%. The diversity index of 46% is moderate. With 87.8% economic need index, this is a high-poverty school serving families facing significant challenges. The IEP population (14%) is slightly below district averages. Despite the socioeconomic challenges, the community is deeply engaged — 183 families responded to the survey (a 94% response rate), indicating strong PTA and family involvement.

Crown Heights is a dense, transit-rich Brooklyn neighborhood with strong family orientation (90th percentile) and education focus (77th percentile). The area has excellent public transit access (87th percentile) but lower safety scores (14th percentile). Median home values are over $1 million, though the poverty rate sits at 20.2%. The neighborhood has a strong sense of stability among families with children, though crime density and environmental health indicators (asthma rates, lead exposure) suggest some challenges. Families report the area is family-friendly with good access to parks and community resources.

The neighborhood is highly walkable with excellent transit options. Families can easily reach the school via multiple subway lines and bus routes. The area's density and pedestrian-friendliness make it manageable for families without cars.