P.S. 086 The Irvington

The 2025 scores of 42.7% ELA and 41.4% math place the school just below the district averages of 45.9% and 43.2%, respectively — a gap worth noting but one that has narrowed considerably. The school's overall quality rating of 1.68 out of 4 is also marginally below the district average of 1.78, reflecting that this is an improving school operating in the middle of the pack in District 32, which includes several high-performing charter schools that skew the averages upward. Grade-level data shows a notable strength in Grade 5 (54.2% ELA) and Grade 3 math (52.8%), while Grade 4 math (22.9%) represents a clear area needing attention.

The climate data tells a nuanced story. Teachers report exceptional safety (97%) and strong collegial trust (90%), and they rate instruction quality at 88% — above the district average. Families are clearly engaged: 93% satisfaction, 92% parent-teacher trust, and an impressive 69% survey response rate (well above typical). However, the chronic absenteeism rate of 78.6% is extraordinarily high, suggesting significant barriers to daily attendance despite the positive survey feelings. Discipline is a bright spot: zero suspensions for three consecutive years, indicating either strong behavioral practices or a culture that resolves issues without exclusion.

This is a high-need community: 95% of students are Hispanic, 89.6% qualify for free or reduced lunch, and 19% have IEPs — all well above city averages. The diversity index of 15% reflects a relatively homogeneous student body, which is typical for zoned schools in this part of Bushwick. Yet the PTA raised $28 per student (about $10,500 total), showing real family investment despite economic challenges. The community is working-class and family-dense, with 10.9% of households having children and a median income around $87,000.

Bushwick is a neighborhood of contrasts: it has excellent transit access (84th percentile), strong family density (72nd percentile), and an education-oriented community (59th percentile), but scores poorly on safety (18th percentile) and has environmental health concerns including elevated asthma rates. The median home value of $882,000 reflects recent gentrification, but only 11% of residents own homes, meaning most families rent. There's a vibrant street culture with restaurants and shops along Irving Avenue, and several parks nearby offer outdoor space.

The school is highly walkable from surrounding blocks, and families with young children often walk or take short bus rides. The L train at Jefferson Street and multiple bus routes serve the area well, making car-free commuting realistic for most families. However, the low safety score means evening pickup may warrant extra attention.