P.S. 081 Robert J. Christen

Test scores at P.S. 081 are striking — 87.8% ELA proficiency and 88.9% math proficiency place this school far above District 10 averages of 45% and 43.5% respectively. The school has climbed significantly from 2016 levels (60.6% ELA, 64.2% Math), though performance has fluctuated year to year, with a notable dip in 2022 and 2024 before rebounding sharply in 2025. Fourth grade shows the strongest performance (94.1% ELA), while fifth grade trails slightly but still exceeds 82% in both subjects. At 3.53 out of 4 on the overall score, the school ranks among the highest-performing in District 10.

The school’s climate data paints a remarkably positive picture. Parent satisfaction sits at 96%, with nearlyunanimous trust in teachers (98%) and the principal (97%). Teachers report 99% quality of instruction and 100% safety — the latter well above the district average of 87%. There have been zero suspensions for three years running, suggesting a restorative or extremely low-conflict environment. However, the 75.9% chronic absenteeism rate is a serious red flag — nearly three-quarters of students are considered chronically absent, with rates highest among Asian (85%) and White (82.5%) students, suggesting the absenteeism may relate to families using the school as a safety net while residing elsewhere or traveling frequently.

The school population is majority Hispanic (51%) with a substantial White population (31%), reflecting the neighborhood's demographics. About 6% are Asian, 6% Black, and 5% Multi-Racial, yielding a diversity index of 68%. The economic need index of 38.3% is notably lower than many Bronx schools, aligning with the neighborhood's median household income of $112,815 and low 7.4% poverty rate. IEP students represent 17% of enrollment. PTA fundraising of $169 per student is more than double the district average, indicating strong parental involvement and resources.

Riverdale-Spuyten Duyvil is one of the Bronx's most affluent and stable neighborhoods, with a 62.3% college-educated population, 58% homeownership rate, and median home values over $421,000. The neighborhood scores 87 out of 100 for education orientation and 93 for stability, reflecting a community that prioritizes schools. Safety scores (65) are moderate, while transit access (23) is limited — this is a neighborhood where families are likely to drive or walk. The area has lower poverty and crime density compared to other parts of the Bronx.

The neighborhood is car-oriented given low transit scores; families without vehicles may find commuting challenging. Walkability is reasonable within the immediate Riverdale area but the school draws from a zone that may require driving.