P.S. 109 Sedgwick

Test scores at P.S. 109 hover around 33% in ELA and 25% in math — both significantly below District 9 averages of roughly 45%. The historical trend shows real instability: scores jumped from the low 20s in 2016 to the low 30s by 2018-2019, then plummeted during the pandemic to 19% ELA in 2022, and have only recently clawed back to pre-pandemic levels. Grade 5 students are performing noticeably stronger in ELA (45%) but struggling in math (16%), while younger grades show more balanced but lower results. The 1.15 overall score out of 4 places this school firmly in the lower tier of District 9.

The survey data tells a striking story: families love this school (98% satisfaction, 99% parent-teacher trust, perfect scores on 'strong relationships'), but teachers tell a more complicated story. Teacher instruction quality scores lag at 73% compared to a 90% district average, and teacher-principal trust sits at 68%. These gaps often signal a school where leadership works well with families but hasn't fully aligned staff around instructional priorities. The 83% teacher-reported safety rate matches the district average — families and staff both feel physically safe. The zero suspension rate is exceptional and suggests a restorative or relationship-based approach to behavior, though with very few teacher survey responses (11), the teacher perspective may be under-represented.

This is a predominantly Hispanic school (77%) with substantial Black enrollment (21%) and almost no white or Asian students — reflecting the neighborhood's demographics. With 92% economic need and 21% of students receiving special education services, the population faces significant challenges outside school walls. Yet the 71% family survey response rate and 297 responses indicate strong family engagement — these families are showing up and weighing in.

University Heights and Morris Heights is a densely populated, family-heavy Bronx neighborhood where most residents rent rather than own (only 6.5% homeownership). The median household income of $32,000 places it among the city's lower-income areas, and just 15% of adults have a bachelor's degree. Transit access is solid (70th percentile), making commutes manageable. Environmental health indicators show elevated lead rates (18%) and high asthma rates (75.5 per 1,000), reflecting broader urban health challenges. The area scores high on family density and stability — this is a tightknit community where families have put down roots.

This is a walkable neighborhood where most families arrive on foot — the high family density and low car ownership mean children commonly walk or take short bus rides to school. The area's transit score makes it accessible for working parents who rely on public transportation.