P.S. 076 The Bennington School

Test scores have climbed sharply — from 20.5% ELA in 2022 to 53.8% today, and from 14.7% to 54.9% in math — putting the school essentially at parity with the district average (56.7% ELA, 55.6% math). Grade 4 stands out as particularly strong, with 76.8% ELA proficiency and 66.7% math — among the highest in the area. The overall score of 2.17/4 is slightly below the district average of 2.25, but the trajectory suggests continued improvement. Third grade shows solid math (56%) with room to grow in ELA (37%), while fifth grade performs well in ELA (52.9%) but lags in math (42.9%).

The survey data tells a striking story: nearly every trust metric exceeds 90%. Parents give teachers 98% trust and the principal 97%. Teachers report 98% instruction quality and 96% feeling safe at work. There have been zero suspensions for three consecutive years — a rare achievement. However, chronic absenteeism is high at 53.5%, affecting all demographic groups similarly (50-63% across racial groups). The family survey response rate is low at 11%, which may mean the high satisfaction scores reflect engaged families rather than the full community. Still, the teacher-to-teacher collegial trust sits at 84%, which is solid though slightly lower than other trust measures, suggesting some peer dynamics to navigate.

With 693 students in grades PK-5, the school reflects its neighborhood: 49% Hispanic, 38% Black, with smaller Asian (6%) and White (6%) populations. The diversity index of 63% indicates a mixed community. Economic need is high at 82.6% — most families qualify for free or reduced lunch — and 21% of students have IEPs. PTA fundraising is modest at $20 per student (district average is $23.69), suggesting fewer discretionary dollars for enrichment programs compared to wealthier areas. Still, the strong survey participation from families who do engage points to a core of invested parents.

Allerton is a working-class Bronx neighborhood known for its stability — the stability score of 83.91 is among the highest in the city, meaning many families have lived here for years or decades. It scores high on family density (72.8) but lower on education orientation (41), suggesting families are rooted here but the area isn't defined by its schools. Safety scores (11.88) are low, reflecting urban challenges. Transit access is moderate (55.94), and median home values of $535,177 have risen significantly, though only 15.9% of residents own their homes. The median household income of $46,623 and 24.7% poverty rate indicate a neighborhood where many families are getting by, not quite getting ahead.

Allerton is a highly walkable neighborhood — many families arrive on foot, and the area's grid layout makes it easy for kids to walk or bike to school. For those coming from further afield, the subway and bus connections are adequate but not exceptional.