P.S. 061 Francisco Oller

This school has undergone a dramatic turnaround — ELA proficiency sits at 51.3% and math at 48.1%, both above District 12 averages (44.6% and 43.3% respectively). Looking at the grade-level breakdown, 4th and 5th graders perform strongest — 5th grade ELA hit 62.1% — while 3rd grade (28.6% both subjects) suggests early intervention needs attention. The eight-year trend shows relentless upward momentum: from just 15.4% ELA and 12.7% math in 2016 to current levels, though 2024 to 2025 saw a slight ELA dip (27.9% to 27.9%, wait — actually 27.9% to 51.3% — let me check: the data shows 2024: 27.9% ELA, 53.4% Math; 2025: 51.3% ELA, 48.1% Math — so math dipped slightly). Overall score of 1.99/4 exceeds the district average of 1.76.

The survey data tells a remarkable story: teachers rate instruction quality at 100%, and families give 93-96% marks across trust metrics (parent-teacher, parent-principal, and strong relationships). Teacher-reported safety at 93% far exceeds the district average of 84.6%. The school has maintained a zero suspension rate for three consecutive years — notable in a district where the average is 0.42%. However, the 70.7% chronic absenteeism rate (72.4% for boys, 68.6% for girls, 72.4% for Hispanic students) is a serious concern that undermines what should be even stronger academic outcomes. Families are showing up and trusting the staff; the gap is getting students through the door consistently.

At 241 students, this is a small zoned elementary with a predominantly Hispanic student body (81%) and 16% Black students. The diversity index sits at 35%, reflecting the neighborhood's demographics. With 15% IEP students and an economic need index of 94 — meaning nearly all students come from households facing significant financial hardship — the school serves a population with substantial support needs. The 61% family survey response rate (107 responses) suggests decent engagement, though the small teacher sample (17 responses) means some teacher metrics should be interpreted cautiously.

Crotona Park East is a working-class Bronx neighborhood characterized by high family density (84th percentile), low homeownership (9.6%), and limited college-educated residents (14.7% with BA+). Safety scores are notably low (12.64 percentile), and the poverty rate hits 28.5%. The area does offer strong transit access (67th percentile) and proximity to Crotona Park provides green space. For families, the tradeoffs are typical of the South Bronx: affordable housing and community ties, but environmental health concerns (elevated asthma rates, PM2.5 exposure) and safety considerations require weighing.

The neighborhood is walkable and transit-accessible, with strong subway and bus options (67th percentile transit score). Many families walk to school given the small geographic area and family-dense streets.