P.S. 147 Isaac Remsen

The 2025 test scores represent a striking leap — 86.7% ELA and 77.4% Math — compared to the school's historical performance in the mid-thirties to low-forties across both subjects from 2016-2024. This dramatic improvement substantially outpaces the district averages of 62.4% ELA and 59.5% Math. However, parents should note that such a dramatic one-year jump warrants watching to see if it reflects sustained instructional gains or other factors. The overall quality rating of 3.28/4 puts this school well above the district average of 2.44, suggesting meaningful progress in how the school is rated overall, even as the raw proficiency numbers have fluctuated historically.

The culture and climate data is exceptional. Parents give near-universal marks: 97% satisfaction, 97% trust in teachers, 96% trust in the principal, and 100% report strong relationships — essentially, families feel heard and connected. Teachers echo this: 95% trust in the principal, 95% collegial trust, and 92% rate instruction quality highly. Safety is reported at 94% by teachers (slightly below the district average of 97%, but strong). The discipline record is remarkable: zero suspensions for three consecutive years. The one area of concern is chronic absenteeism at 45.3% — notably high, especially for female students at 52.3% — suggesting some families struggle with consistent attendance despite the strong survey relationships.

P.S. 147 serves 214 students in a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood. The student body is 58% Hispanic, 20% Black, 8% White, 6% Asian, and 9% Multi-Racial — reflecting the demographics of East Williamsburg, which has become increasingly diverse as families move in. The economic need index of 79.9% is high, meaning most students come from households facing financial challenges. A quarter of students have IEPs, indicating significant special education support needs. The diversity index of 68% suggests a fairly diverse student population. PTA fundraising of $71 per student is below the district average of $123, suggesting fewer extra resources from parent fundraising.

East Williamsburg sits in northern Brooklyn, an area that has transformed over decades from industrial to mixed-use residential. The neighborhood scores show tradeoffs: transit is solid (61st percentile), family density is high (67th percentile), and education orientation is strong (65th percentile), but safety scores are low (43rd percentile) and the health environment is a concern (16th percentile), partly driven by air quality issues (PM2.5 levels) and elevated asthma rates. Median home values are over $1 million, yet homeownership is just 12.5% — most families rent. The poverty rate of 24.3% and high economic need at the school (80%) reflect the financial realities many families navigate.

East Williamsburg is generally walkable, and the area has good subway access via the L train and several bus routes. Many families likely walk or take public transit. However, parents should factor in the neighborhood's safety scores (43rd percentile) when considering commutes, particularly for younger children walking alone.