P.S. 160 William T. Sampson

Math is the standout here — 81.1% proficiency versus the district average of 71.2%, with 85.4% of fifth graders passing. ELA sits at 65%, slightly below the district average of 66.2%. The school has made massive gains from 2016 (when only 45% passed ELA and 63% math), climbing nearly 20 points in both subjects by 2019 before a pandemic dip and recovery. The overall 2.92/4 score edges out the district average of 2.75, placing it among the stronger performers in District 20.

This is a school where families feel heard and teachers feel supported. Parent satisfaction hits 96%, and trust metrics between families and staff hover near 99%. Teachers rate instruction quality at 95% and report 99% safety — numbers that suggest a stable, positive day-to-day environment. Perhaps most notably, the school has had zero suspensions for three consecutive years. The attendance rate of 97% far exceeds the district average, and survey response rates (100% families, 84% teachers) indicate deep engagement.

The student body is 89% Asian — predominantly of Chinese descent, reflecting the neighborhood's large immigrant population. White and Hispanic students each make up a small slice (3% and 7%). Nearly all students (90.6%) come from economically disadvantaged households. Despite that, families are deeply engaged: the PTA raised over $100,000 last year ($100 per student), well above the district average of $61. The diversity index is low at 24%, meaning the school is quite homogeneous — which can mean strong community cohesion but less exposure to diverse perspectives.

Borough Park is a family-first neighborhood where three generations often live within walking distance of each other. The area scores high on family density (97 percentile) but lower on safety (53) and education orientation (49). It's working-class and immigrant-heavy, with a 32.8% poverty rate and only 20.5% of adults holding a bachelor's degree. Families often walk or take public transit — the neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly but busy. Fort Hamilton Parkway is a commercial artery with shops, restaurants, and groceries serving the local community.

Very walkable neighborhood — many families live within blocks and walk to school. The area is flat, sidewalks are crowded with pedestrians, and public transit is accessible.