P.S. 013 Clement C. Moore

Test scores at P.S. 013 show a dramatic improvement trajectory from 2016 to 2024 — ELA climbed from 37.6% to 50.6% and math from 40.1% to 71.8% — but the 2025 results pulled both subjects lower: ELA at 46.3% (below the district average of 51.1%) and math at 55.1% (roughly matching the district). The school's 2.03 overall score is slightly below the district's 2.12. Grade-level data shows students performing better as they advance: Grade 5 hits 53.5% ELA and 55.7% math, while Grade 3 sits at 38.5% ELA — a 15-point gap suggesting early grades may need more support. The upward trend before 2025 is encouraging, but the recent regression means the school is catching up rather than leading.

The survey data reveals a striking split: families love this school (94% satisfaction, 97% parent-teacher trust, 100% strong relationships), but teachers have deep concerns about leadership (only 20% trust in the principal, though 61% trust colleagues). Despite this, teacher-reported safety is excellent at 97%, and the school has maintained zero suspensions for three consecutive years. Attendance is a real challenge — the 92% rate barely matches the district, and chronic absenteeism at 70.6% is exceptionally high, particularly among white (75.8%) and Asian (81.8%) students, though Black students fare better at 54%. The day-to-day feel is clearly warm and safe for families, but the teacher-principal trust gap suggests internal strain that parents may not see.

With 1,109 students, P.S. 013 is a mid-sized elementary serving a predominantly Hispanic community (59%) alongside substantial Asian enrollment (28%). The economic need index of 80.2% is high — most families here qualify for free or reduced lunch — yet the school maintains a diverse student body with a diversity index of 59%. Only 16% of students have IEPs, which is below average. This is a working-class neighborhood school where families value education but face real logistical and economic challenges, reflected in the high chronic absenteeism rates.

Elmhurst is one of Queens' most densely populated, family-heavy neighborhoods, ranking in the 93rd percentile for family density. The area has moderate transit access (63rd percentile) but lower safety scores (26th percentile), with elevated asthma rates and air quality concerns. Median home values around $693,000 suggest an increasingly expensive neighborhood for buyers, though 74% of residents rent. With only 27% homeownership, this is a transient, working-class community. Families will find plenty of other kids around — that's the main character of the neighborhood — but should be aware of the safety and environmental metrics when weighing tradeoffs.

Elmhurst is highly walkable with good subway access nearby, making it practical for families without cars. The area is densely built-up, so expect crowded sidewalks during school pickup and drop-off.