P.S. 153 Adam Clayton Powell

Test scores here are below the district average — 24% ELA and 42% math proficiency compared to District 6 averages of 47% and 52%. But context matters: the school hit its peak in 2019 (40% ELA, 42% math) before the pandemic knocked scores down to 20% and 21% in 2022. The 2024-25 scores show recovery underway, with math climbing back to pre-pandemic levels and ELA inching upward. Fifth-graders are struggling most (only 16% ELA proficiency), while third and fourth graders are performing better. The 1.32 overall score on the 4-point scale is below the district average of 1.98.

Here's where P.S. 153 stands out: parent satisfaction hits 93%, teacher-principal trust reaches an extraordinary 97%, and 96% of families report strong relationships with the school. Teacher instruction quality scores 95%. Critically, there have been zero suspensions for three consecutive years — a discipline record most schools would envy. That said, the 61.9% chronic absenteeism rate is a serious concern, meaning roughly 6 out of 10 students miss too much school. This disconnect — families love the school but kids aren't showing up consistently — suggests the challenge isn't satisfaction, it's attendance logistics or barriers at home.

With 403 students across pre-K through 5th grade, this is a mid-sized elementary school. The student body is predominantly Hispanic (73%) with significant Black (17%) and small White (7%) and Asian (2%) populations. Nearly 87% of students have economic need, and 17% have IEPs. The neighborhood itself is mixed-income with a median household income around $66K and 23% poverty rate — about 40% of adults have bachelor's degrees. The school reflects its community's demographics and serves a population with real socioeconomic challenges.

Hamilton Heights-Sugar Hill is a neighborhood built for commuters — transit scores near perfect at 95, with easy subway access. It's not particularly family-dense (only 13% of households have children), but those who live here value the strong sense of community. Safety scores are lower here than in many Manhattan neighborhoods, though the school itself maintains a safe environment according to teacher surveys. There's decent access to nearby parks and the area has seen ongoing development, though it's not a typical suburban-feeling family enclave.

Very walkable — Amsterdam Avenue is a main thoroughfare with good sidewalks, and the school's location near multiple subway lines makes it accessible without a car for most families in the area