P.S. 031 William T. Davis

Test scores at P.S. 031 have climbed from pandemic-era lows (9.9% ELA in 2022) to 44.3% ELA and 38.3% math in 2025 — gains that represent real instructional momentum. However, these proficiency rates still fall roughly 17 percentage points below the Staten Island district averages. Grade 4 leads in ELA at 51.2%, while Grade 5 shows stronger math performance than reading. The overall quality score of 1.65/4 indicates the school is still building toward district norms.

The climate data tells a nuanced story. Parents report exceptionally high trust in teachers (95%) and the principal (95%), with 100% reporting strong relationships — these are standout numbers. Teachers also report strong collegial trust (89%) and decent trust in leadership (88%). However, teacher-reported safety sits at 80%, notably below the district average of 95%, and instruction quality scores 86% versus 93% district-wide. With only one suspension last year and minimal discipline issues, the safety concern may reflect building conditions or neighborhood perception rather than actual incident rates.

This is a high-need community school: 92% economic need index, 27% students with IEPs, and a student body that is 46% Black and 44% Hispanic with very few white or Asian students. The diversity index of 61% reflects a relatively homogeneous community in terms of race/ethnicity but one that aligns with the neighborhood's demographic makeup. PTA fundraising is extremely low at $1 per student ($451 total), suggesting limited volunteer capacity among families who may be managing significant logistical and economic stressors.

St. George-New Brighton is a densely populated, transit-rich corner of Staten Island with a moderate poverty rate of 19.5% and median home values over $550,000. The neighborhood scores poorly on safety (36th percentile) and family density (24th percentile), though it rates high on stability and transit access. With only 13% households with children and a 33% college-educated population, this is not a traditional family-oriented neighborhood — it may feel more urban and transitional than typical Staten Island residential areas. The area has elevated asthma rates and some environmental concerns.

The neighborhood has strong transit scores (86th percentile), suggesting good bus and ferry access. However, the low family density and safety concerns mean many families may drive or receive carpools, particularly given Staten Island's car-dependent reputation overall.