P.S. 018 Park Terrace

Test scores here are significantly below the District 6 average — ELA proficiency sits at 33.1% versus the district's 47%, and math at 30.8% versus 52%. The school has shown meaningful growth over time, roughly doubling ELA proficiency from 16% in 2016 to 33% today, but that progress has stalled over the past two years. Grade-level patterns are inconsistent: 8th graders outperform in ELA (44%) but struggle in math (22%), while 6th graders show the opposite pattern (21% ELA, 40% math). The overall quality score of 1.28/4 places it well below the district average of 1.98.

The survey data tells a remarkable story: 98% of parents report satisfaction, 97% trust teachers, and 98% trust the principal — numbers that far exceed district averages. Teachers rate instruction quality at 95% and report feeling completely safe (100%). Yet there's a striking contradiction: chronic absenteeism sits at 60.3%, meaning most students are missing significant school time. The school has maintained zero suspensions for three years running, suggesting a restorative or supportive approach to discipline. This gap between high trust and poor attendance suggests families believe in the school culture but face barriers to getting kids through the door consistently.

This is one of the least diverse schools in Manhattan: 95% Hispanic, with almost no Asian, Black, or White students. The economic need index of 89 reflects significant poverty in the student population. At 282 students across grades K-8, the school is small and tight-knit. The neighborhood of Inwood has a moderate median income ($63K) but a low homeownership rate (9%), meaning most families are renting — typical for this part of Upper Manhattan. Twenty-seven percent of students have IEPs, indicating substantial special education support needs.

Inwood sits at the northern tip of Manhattan, known for its quiet residential streets, Inwood Hill Park, and strong neighborhood identity. The area has solid transit options (64th percentile) but scored poorly on safety indicators (10th percentile), with elevated crime density and asthma rates. Families here tend to be working-class, and the neighborhood has a family density score in the 53rd percentile. There are local resources like parks and community centers, though the area doesn't have the same abundance of enrichment options as wealthier Manhattan neighborhoods.

Families in this zoned neighborhood walk to school — the area is pedestrian-friendly with relatively flat streets, and most students live within the zone.