P.S. 146 Ann M. Short

Test scores at P.S. 146 have come a long way since 2016, when just 11.5% of students were proficient in ELA and 15.2% in math. By 2024, those numbers reached 30.2% and 39.8% respectively — meaningful growth by any measure. However, the 2025 scores (27.3% ELA, 35.4% math) represent a step back from that peak, and both remain well below the district averages of 49.8% and 45.2%. Grade-level data shows older students performing notably better in math (51.4% proficiency in 5th grade) than in reading, suggesting the school's math instruction may be gaining more traction than literacy — an area worth watching for incoming families.

The culture here tells a nuanced story. Parents absolutely love this school — 100% satisfaction, 100% trust in teachers and principal, and 100% reporting strong relationships. Teachers echo that sentiment with 98% rating instruction quality highly and 93% feeling safe at work. There's not a single suspension on record for three consecutive years. Yet there's a tension: chronic absenteeism sits at 52%, meaning more than half of students are missing significant school time — nearly identical across gender and racial groups. This suggests the school's warm culture may not be translating into consistent daily attendance for every family.

This is a predominantly Hispanic and Black student body in a neighborhood that matches that profile — 60% Hispanic, 29% Black, with small Asian and white populations. Nearly 40% of students have IEPs, suggesting robust special education services. With an economic need index of 93.3%, this school serves families facing significant financial challenges. The diversity index of 58% reflects a fairly homogeneous community in many ways, though the neighborhood itself is richly multicultural.

East Harlem is a neighborhood of stark contrasts. Families with children make up nearly 97% of the area's percentile ranking for family density, and transit access is excellent (80th percentile). However, safety scores are among the lowest in the city (12/100), and environmental health indicators show concerns — elevated lead rates and high asthma emergency department visits. Median household income is just $44,054, and homeownership is extremely rare at 7.8%, meaning most families rent. The community has deep cultural roots and plenty of family resources, though parents should be aware of the safety realities when considering after-school activities or commutes.

Given the high family density and excellent transit scores, many families likely walk or take the subway. The 96th percentile family density means neighbors and classmates often live close by.