P.S. 019 Asher Levy

ELA proficiency at 55.4% and math at 52.8% place this school slightly above the District 1 averages (51.7% and 47.4% respectively), though both have dipped from a 2019 peak where ELA hit 58.5%. Science scores are notably strong at 90%. The overall quality rating of 2.16/4 also sits modestly above the district average of 1.98. Grade-level data shows 4th grade performing strongest (60.7% ELA, 63% math), while 5th grade math lags at 42.3% — a notable gap that parents of younger children should monitor.

Here is where the picture gets complicated — and revealing. Teacher instruction quality scores an impressive 96%, vastly outpacing the district average of 87%, and there were zero suspensions in 2021-22. This tells you teachers trust the leadership and the environment is respectful. However, chronic absenteeism sits at 48.2% — alarmingly high — and parent satisfaction lags at 75.2% versus an 88% district average. The attendance gap is especially stark for Hispanic students (54.6% chronic absenteeism) compared to Black students (28.1%). This combination — strong teacher sentiment but weak family engagement — suggests a school where the programs may be solid but the community connections need work.

With 57% Hispanic, 18% Black, 12% White, and 6% Asian students, this school reflects the working-class and immigrant roots of the East Village better than the neighborhood itself, which skews childless and affluent. The diversity index of 68% and economic need index of 67.8% indicate a predominantly working-class population. The 41% IEP rate is notably high — nearly half the student body receives special education services, which speaks to either strong identification practices or significant student support needs.

The East Village offers exceptional transit access (93.1 score) and a culturally rich, stable environment (77.01 stability score), but it's not particularly designed for families — only 6.6% of households have children, and the safety score of 14.94 is among the lowest in the city. The median home value of $1.06 million and homeownership rate of just 13.9% tell you this is a neighborhood of renters, artists, and young professionals. Families here are likely navigating higher costs without the typical support networks found in more family-oriented areas.

The East Village is highly walkable and well-served by multiple subway lines, making it accessible from much of Manhattan without a car. Families in the neighborhood can walk to school easily.