P.S. 047 Chris Galas

Test scores at P.S. 047 Chris Galas have moved decisively upward, with ELA at 65.2% and math at 68.1% — both above the district averages of 56% and 57%. The school hit a rough patch between 2019-2022 when both subjects dropped into the mid-40s to mid-50s, but the trajectory since then has been steep and consistent. Grade-level data shows particular strength in the upper grades — 7th graders posted 81% ELA and 95% math proficiency — while younger grades hover in the low-to-mid 60s. The 2.67 overall score beats the district average of 2.27, placing this school solidly above typical District 27 performance.

The culture here reflects a mixed picture. Teachers report near-universal confidence in instruction quality (96%) and feel completely safe (100%), with extremely high collegial trust (97%). Parents are more measured — while parent-teacher trust hits 90%, overall parent satisfaction sits at 83%, below the district average, and parent-principal trust is the weakest link at 78%. Zero suspensions for three consecutive years is a real strength. However, chronic absenteeism is a significant issue at 63.2%, with particularly high rates among Asian families (73.3%) and White families (66.5%), suggesting potential cultural or logistical barriers to getting kids to school consistently.

This is a predominantly white school (72%) in a neighborhood that matches — the surrounding area has a 65.9% homeownership rate and median household income over $115,000. At 253 students across grades K-8, it's small enough that teachers know every kid. The diversity index of 51% reflects modest representation of Hispanic (15%), Asian (7%), and Black (5%) families. Economic need is relatively low at 35.7%, and 28% of students have IEPs — a meaningful population that suggests the school supports diverse learning needs.

This is a stable, residential corner of Queens characterized by single-family homes and low turnover. The neighborhood scores exceptionally high on stability (96%) and health environment (89%), with a safety score of 76. Transit access is notably weak (20%) — families are largely car-dependent. There's decent family infrastructure nearby, though not as densely packed as urban core neighborhoods. The poverty rate is low at 9.3%, and nearly half of residents have bachelor's degrees or higher.

Walkable within the immediate neighborhood but families from further afield will need cars — transit options are limited and the area is spread out