Middle School 322

Test scores at MS 322 are below district averages—27.7% ELA and 38.1% math proficiency versus district averages of 47% and 52% respectively. However, the long-term trend shows meaningful growth: math proficiency has climbed from 17% in 2016 to 38% in 2025, and ELA improved from 15% to 28% over the same period. The school earns a 1.32 overall score compared to the district's 1.98. Notably, 8th graders perform substantially better than younger grades—52% math proficiency in 8th grade versus 19% in 6th grade—suggesting the school is effectively building skills over time, though students arrive significantly below grade level.

The climate data reveals a paradoxical picture. Families overwhelmingly trust the leadership—98% parent-principal trust and 96% parent-teacher trust are exceptional, and 93% of parents report satisfaction. Teachers, however, show lower confidence: only 78% trust the principal and 84% rate instruction quality as good, below the district average of 90%. The attendance rate (91.4%) mirrors the district average, but chronic absenteeism is a significant concern at nearly 70%—meaning many students are missing substantial school time. Discipline has increased: suspensions rose from zero in 2021-22 to seven last year (3% rate), still below the peer average but trending the wrong direction. The low survey response rates (23 teachers, 61 families) suggest these Trust numbers represent a committed minority rather than a universal experience.

MS 322 serves 258 students in a tightly knit, high-need community: 95% Hispanic, 2% Black, and 95% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch (economic need index of 90.8%). The student body reflects the Washington Heights neighborhood, which has a median household income of $76,919 and a 14% poverty rate—lower than many Manhattan neighborhoods but still significant. At 22%, the school has a higher-than-average population of students with IEPs, and offers ELL support for English language learners. With only 15% diversity index, this is a culturally homogeneous community—families looking for a diverse peer group would need to look elsewhere.

Washington Heights is a dense, transit-rich neighborhood in Upper Manhattan with strong family infrastructure. The area scores highly on family density (80th percentile) and education orientation (60th percentile), with 41.8% of residents holding bachelor's degrees. Safety scores are moderate (10th percentile), and the neighborhood has elevated environmental health concerns (higher asthma rates and lead exposure indicators). Transit access is strong, making commutes from other parts of Manhattan and the Bronx feasible. The median home value of $575,428 reflects the area's ongoing development, though only 17.5% of residents own homes—most families rent.

The school is on Broadway in the heart of Washington Heights, a walkable urban neighborhood with strong subway access via the A, C, and 1 lines. Families from across District 6 and neighboring districts commonly commute here.