P.S. 001 Courtlandt School

Test scores have swung significantly over the past decade, but the most recent 2025 data shows the school's strongest performance: 28.3% ELA and 37.3% math proficiency. This represents substantial recovery from pandemic-era lows (13.1% ELA in 2022), yet both metrics remain well below the district averages of 51.3% ELA and 49% math. The grade-level breakdown reveals inconsistency — fourth graders outperform in ELA (41.2%) while third graders lead in math (40%). The overall score of 1.31/4 places this school in the bottom tier of District 7, though the upward trajectory from 2022-2025 suggests intervention efforts are gaining traction.

The survey data tells a complex story. Parents are overwhelmingly positive — 95% satisfaction and 98% trust in teachers and the principal — suggesting strong family-school partnerships. Teachers report 79% instruction quality (below the 88% district average) and 70% safety perception. Notably, teacher-principal trust sits at only 65%, which is a meaningful gap. The school has achieved zero suspensions for three consecutive years, a remarkable feat. However, chronic absenteeism at 65.1% is a serious concern — meaning nearly two-thirds of students are missing significant instructional time. The daily environment appears warm for families but may have underlying staff leadership tensions.

With 485 students, this is a mid-sized elementary school. The student body is 74% Hispanic, 23% Black, 2% white — reflecting the Melrose neighborhood demographics. Nearly one-quarter (22%) of students have IEPs, indicating robust special education services. PTA fundraising totaled $10,446 ($22/student), slightly above the district average of $9.62 per student, suggesting active if modest parent involvement.

Melrose is one of the Bronx's most economically challenged neighborhoods, with a median household income of just $30,236 and a 38% poverty rate. Only 13.9% of residents have a bachelor's degree, and just 10% own homes. The area scores very low on stability (27%) and education orientation (29%), though transit access is excellent (78th percentile). Environmental health concerns are notable — elevated lead rates (15.2%) and high asthma emergency department rates (76 per 1,000) are serious considerations for families. The neighborhood is dense, urban, and working-class, with the school's location on East 152nd Street placing it near Melrose Commons Park.

Given the neighborhood's high population density and strong transit score, most families likely walk or take public transportation. The Metro-North and multiple bus routes serve the area. Street parking would be challenging during school hours.