P.S. 117 J. Keld / Briarwood School

P.S. 117 has outpaced its district averages in both subjects — ELA at 65.4% versus the district's 62.8%, and math at a notably strong 73.3% compared to the district's 62.8%. The school's overall score of 2.77/4 also exceeds the district average of 2.51. Grade-level data shows particularly strong fourth-grade performance at 70.3% ELA and third-grade math at 78.8%, suggesting effective instruction in the upper elementary grades. The long-term trend shows significant volatility — scores dipped notably in 2016-2017 before climbing through 2019, then dropped again in 2022 before surging to their highest point in 2025. This suggests the school may be in a strong upward trajectory, though the historical pattern of fluctuations is worth monitoring.

The school's climate data reveals a striking disconnect between teacher and family perceptions on one hand and attendance reality on the other. Teachers rate instruction quality at 99%, school safety at 99%, and express extremely high trust in leadership (97% teacher-principal trust, 95% teacher collegial trust). Families similarly report strong relationships (93%) and high parent-teacher trust (96%). Yet chronic absenteeism sits at a troubling 63.2% — far above what would be expected given these positive climate indicators. The school has maintained a zero suspension rate for three consecutive years, indicating a supportive discipline approach. Parent satisfaction at 91% is slightly below the district average of 92.6%, though still very strong.

With 795 students, the school reflects the diversity of its Queens neighborhood: 41% Hispanic, 33% Asian, 14% White, 9% Black, and 3% Native American students. The diversity index of 76% indicates a richly mixed student body. Economic need is substantial at 70.3%, and 17% of students have IEPs, suggesting the school serves a population with varied learning needs. The neighborhood itself has a median household income of $83,991 with a 13.4% poverty rate and 44.2% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher — indicating an educated, working- to middle-class community.

Jamaica Hills-Briarwood is a predominantly residential Queens neighborhood with moderate family density (23% of households have children) and a median home value of $612,000, indicating a stable, middle- to upper-middle-class community. The area scores average on safety (47/100) and family orientation (47/100), with moderate transit options (28/100). The neighborhood has typical urban environmental considerations including air quality (PM2.5 at 8.7) and a lead elevated rate of 17.1%, which parents may want to discuss with their pediatricians. Local retail along Hillside Avenue and nearby Flushing Meadows-Corona Park provide family amenities.

The school is located in a residential area of Jamaica Hills-Briarwood. Many families walk or drive, and the area is served by nearby bus routes connecting to the subway lines at Jamaica Center. Street parking can be competitive during school hours.