P.S. 099 Isaac Asimov

Test scores at P.S. 99 show a bumpy trajectory — the school peaked in 2019 (ELA 49.5%, Math 52.4%) before dropping during the pandemic and partially recovering. Current scores (ELA 44.6%, Math 53.8%) remain below the district averages of 60% and 63% respectively. Grade-level data shows math stronger in the upper grades (61.7% in 7th grade, 57.3% in 8th), while ELA hovers in the 40-50% range across most grades. The 1.97 overall score places it below the district average of 2.46. Notably, 3rd grade math (61.2%) performs well, suggesting early math instruction may be a strength.

The survey data reveals a striking split: families love this school (97% parent-teacher trust, 96% principal trust, 100% report strong relationships), but teachers are less enthusiastic. Teacher instruction quality scores 79% versus a district average of 93%, and teacher-principal trust is notably low at 54%. Teacher collegial trust sits at 65%. However, teacher-reported safety is strong at 93%, and the school has achieved zero suspensions for two consecutive years — a significant achievement. The chronic absenteeism rate of 63% is concerning, particularly for Hispanic students (68%) and females (66%), suggesting attendance interventions may be needed.

With 800 students, P.S. 99 is mid-sized for a K-8. The demographics reflect the neighborhood: 44% Asian, 31% white, 19% Hispanic, 5% Black — giving a diversity index of 69%. The economic need index of 79.7% indicates many students come from higher-need households, and 13% have IEPs. The PTA raised only $8 per student ($6,458 total), far below the district average of $79 per student, suggesting less fundraising capacity than peer schools — likely a function of the neighborhood's mix of working-class and middle-class families.

Mapleton-Midwood (West) is a family-dense neighborhood in central Brooklyn with a 90.8 family density score — meaning lots of kids around. The median home value is over $1 million, and median household income is $71,408 with an 18.3% poverty rate. Education orientation scores 67.8, indicating families here value schooling. Safety scores 57.9 (moderate), transit scores 60.5 (decent), but health environment is low (26) and stability is very low (19), suggesting a neighborhood in transition. There are parks and family resources in the area, though the specific amenities aren't detailed.

The neighborhood is walkable for most families, with moderate transit options available. As a zoned school, most students walk or take short bus rides from the surrounding blocks.