P.S. 134 Henrietta Szold

Test scores here are significantly below the District 1 average — ELA proficiency of 26.7% and math at 24.6% compare to district averages of 52% and 47% respectively. The trend has been volatile: scores peaked in 2019 (35% ELA), dropped sharply during remote learning (falling to 10.8% ELA in 2024), and have recovered somewhat in 2025. Grade 4 shows stronger performance (55% ELA, 48% math), while Grade 5 struggles significantly (6.3% in both subjects). The overall quality score of 1.03 out of 4 places this school in the lowest tier of District 1.

The survey data tells a striking story: parents love this school (95% satisfaction, 98% trust in teachers and principal), and 100% report strong relationships. However, teachers tell a different tale — only 41% trust the principal, and just 59% report feeling safe. Teacher instruction quality ratings (74%) also fall below the district average of 87%. On the positive side, chronic absenteeism at 41% is high, but attendance has improved from previous years, and the school maintains a zero suspension rate for three consecutive years — a deliberate approach to discipline that prioritizes keeping students in classrooms.

This is a predominantly Hispanic (58%) and Black (29%) student body, reflecting the neighborhood's demographics. With only 177 students across all grades, class sizes are small at 21 students on average. A notably high 38% of students have IEPs — significantly above typical elementary schools — suggesting the school has become a landing spot for students with additional learning needs. The diversity index of 59% is moderate. PTA fundraising is minimal at $8 per student (versus $272 district average), indicating limited discretionary resources for enrichment.

The Lower East Side is a densely populated, transit-rich neighborhood with deep immigrant roots and strong community ties. It scores very high on education orientation (89th percentile) and transit access (89th percentile), but lower on safety (16th percentile) and health environment (11th percentile) — lead exposure and asthma rates are elevated compared to city averages. The median home value of $834,000 reflects the area's gentrification, while 23% poverty rate and 6.5% households with children indicate a mixed-income population.

Excellent transit access makes this a workable commute for families across Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn; the neighborhood is highly walkable, though street safety is a concern given the low safety score.