P.S. 096 Richard Rodgers

Test scores at P.S. 096 have skyrocketed from just 25% ELA and 28% math proficiency in 2019 to 87% and 83% respectively in 2025 — a jump of 60+ percentage points in six years. These numbers far outpace the district averages of 57% ELA and 56% math, placing this school among the top performers in the Bronx. Third graders are nearly all passing (98% math, 98% ELA), though performance dips somewhat in grade 5, particularly in math (71%). The school earns a 3.4 overall rating against a district average of 2.25.

The survey data paints a picture of strong family relationships but some tension in the staff building. Parents report extremely high satisfaction (96%) and trust in teachers (98%) and the principal (97%). Teachers give the school high safety marks (98%) and report strong collegial trust (91%). However, teacher-principal trust sits at 83% — notably lower than other metrics and below the district average for teacher instruction quality (90% vs 92.4%). The school has maintained zero suspensions for three consecutive years, a notable achievement. Yet chronic absenteeism is a serious concern at 70.4% — far too many students are missing significant school time.

The school reflects its neighborhood's demographics closely: 64% Hispanic, 18% Black, 13% White, and 3% Asian, with an 84% economic need index. This is a high-need community where most families are renting (only 16% homeownership) and few have bachelor's degrees (21%). Twenty percent of students have IEPs, suggesting robust special education services. PTA fundraising is minimal at $5 per student (versus $24 district average), indicating limited discretionary family income rather than disengagement.

Allerton is a densely populated, family-oriented Bronx neighborhood with significant stability (84% long-term residents) but real safety concerns — the safety score of 12 out of 100 is notably low. Transit access is moderate (56th percentile), and the area has a high family density (73%). Education orientation scores just 41, reflecting the lower college-education rates in the community. Environmental health indicators show elevated lead risk (15%) and very high asthma rates (76 per 1,000), common in older Bronx housing stock.

Allerton is a walkable neighborhood with many families arriving on foot. The school sits near several bus lines, and the area's high family density means many children live close enough to walk or take short drives. Parking can be challenging during drop-off and pickup times.