P.S. 159 Luis Munoz Marin Biling

Test scores here have been volatile — ELA jumped from 27.1% in 2024 to 55.4% in 2025, while math rose from 31% to 39.7%. The 2025 scores put ELA above the district average (55.4% vs. 45%) but math remains slightly below (39.7% vs. 43.5%). The overall 1.9/4 score is slightly above the district average of 1.77. Grade-level data shows strong 3rd grade performance (72.7% ELA, 52.2% math) but steeper challenges in 5th grade (40% ELA, 19% math), suggesting the upper grades may need additional support or that early gains haven't fully carried through.

This is where P.S. 159 really stands out. Parent satisfaction hits 95%, and trust metrics between families and teachers (98%) and families and the principal (98%) are exceptional. Teachers report 100% instruction quality and 94% feeling safe — both well above district averages. There's a notable discipline gap: zero suspensions for three straight years, yet chronic absenteeism sits at a troubling 72.6% (above the already high district average). The pattern is interesting — families clearly trust and support this school, but getting kids through the door consistently seems to be a challenge.

At 154 students, this is a small school with a predominantly Hispanic student body (84%), reflecting the surrounding Belmont neighborhood. Nearly one in five students (18%) have IEPs, and the economic need index is extremely high at 93.7% — meaning virtually all students qualify for free or reduced lunch. The diversity index is low at 30%, which is expected given the neighborhood's demographic makeup.

Belmont is a high-need Bronx neighborhood with a poverty rate of 37.7%, median household income of just $32,956, and only 13.1% of adults holding a bachelor's degree. The area scores very low on safety (2.3/100) and education orientation (22.22/100), though transit access is decent (58.62). Only 3.8% of residents own homes, indicating a largely renter population. Environmental health concerns include elevated lead rates (15.2%) and high asthma-related emergency visits (75.5 per 1,000).

Belmont is a walkable neighborhood, and most families likely walk or take public transit. The area has moderate transit access, though the low safety score suggests parents may have concerns about children traveling alone.