P.S. 132 Ralph Bunche

P.S. 132 outperforms District 29 on both measures: 61.9% ELA proficiency beats the district's 56.9%, and 77.1% math proficiency is dramatically higher than the district's 53.7%. The trajectory tells the real story. Math proficiency has nearly doubled since 2016 (41.4% to 77.1%), and the school's overall quality score of 2.78/4 sits well above the district average of 2.21/4. Every tested grade is above 70% in math, with Grade 3 leading at 82.9%. This is a school on a clear upward arc, not a school coasting on past reputation.

The trust numbers here are remarkable: 100% of teachers report strong relationships, 100% say instruction quality is high, and 98% feel safe — all well above district averages. Parent satisfaction sits at 93% (vs. district's 91%), and 100% of parents say they trust the principal. There are zero suspensions, three years running, which is notable in a city where many elementary schools register some. The one red flag is chronic absenteeism at 62.1% — meaning more than six in ten students miss 10% or more of the school year, a serious issue that the school's strong academics somehow overcome. Families who can prioritize daily attendance would benefit most.

The student body is 89% Black with a 63.8% economic need index, meaning most students come from lower-income households. This sits in some tension with the surrounding Laurelton neighborhood, where median household income is $106,251 and only 4.9% of residents live in poverty. The school likely draws from a wider catchment that includes more working-class families than the immediate census tract suggests, or reflects how zoned schools can serve populations distinct from their postal address. Eighteen percent of students have IEPs, slightly above typical, suggesting an inclusive approach to special education.

Laurelton is a solidly middle-class, homeowner-heavy neighborhood where roughly four in five residents own their homes and median home values sit near $600,000. The area is largely family-oriented, with nearly 17% of households including children. The adult population is educated — about a third hold a bachelor's degree or higher — and the poverty rate is well below the city average. It's a stable, established community, but one where families are largely getting around by car rather than transit.

This school is beyond walking distance of the subway; families will need a car, school bus, or local bus service to get here.