P.S. 049 Willis Avenue

P.S. 049 has crossed an important threshold — both ELA (57.1%) and math (66.9%) now sit above the District 7 averages (51.3% and 49% respectively). The trajectory is striking: math proficiency more than doubled from 2022 to 2025, climbing from 34.4% to 66.9%. ELA saw a similar jump, rising from 30.9% to 57.1% over the same period. The school scores 2.48 out of 4 overall, well above the district average of 2.0. Performance is consistent across grades 3-5, suggesting the gains aren't concentrated in a single cohort but reflect broader instructional improvement.

The survey data tells a powerful story: 95% of parents are satisfied, 100% report strong relationships with teachers, and 95% trust the principal. Teachers are equally positive — 94% rate instruction quality highly, and 95% trust the principal. This level of alignment between families and staff is unusual. Teacher-reported safety (83%) is slightly above the district average (80.5%). The school has zero suspensions for three years running, which speaks to either excellent behavior management or strong preventive practices. The one concern: chronic absenteeism sits at 67%, which is high and likely reflects the socioeconomic challenges families in this neighborhood face rather than school climate issues.

The student body is 73% Hispanic and 24% Black, reflecting the neighborhood's demographics. Nearly a quarter of students have IEPs, and virtually all (93%) come from economically disadvantaged households. The diversity index (39%) is lower than many Bronx schools, but this is a neighborhood where most families share similar backgrounds and challenges. PTA fundraising is minimal — just $2 per student — which means fewer enrichment extras compared to better-resourced schools.

Mott Haven-Port Morris is one of the poorest neighborhoods in New York City. Median household income is just $29,000, and 40% of residents live below the poverty line. Only 6% of residents own homes, and just 12% have a college degree. The safety score (17 out of 100) is low, reflecting the neighborhood's challenges. There are few family-oriented resources — only 12% of households have children. Families here face real daily stresses, and the school operates in this context.

Many families walk to school, though the neighborhood's safety concerns mean some parents accompany younger children. Public transit access is moderate (transit score of 48).