P.S. 169 Bay Terrace

Math proficiency at 81.1% consistently runs well above the district average of 69.6%, making this a strong choice for families prioritizing numeracy. However, ELA at 61.8% sits below the district average of 64.9%, and scores have been volatile — jumping to 63% in 2022 before settling at 52% in 2024 and recovering to 62% in 2025. Third-grade ELA (63%) and fifth-grade math (87%) show the strongest performance, suggesting instruction improves in upper elementary. The overall score of 2.86/4 edges slightly above the district average of 2.69, but the gap between strong math performance and lagging reading skills is worth monitoring.

Survey data reveals an exceptionally tight-knit community. Parent satisfaction at 95% and teacher-principal trust at 99% are outstanding — this is a school where families and staff clearly feel heard and supported. Teacher-reported safety hits 100%, and there have been zero suspensions for three consecutive years. The one concerning metric is chronic absenteeism at 88.3%, which is notably high even accounting for how NYC measures it. This suggests some families may be keeping children home more than needed, or that there are underlying attendance barriers to address despite the strong community feel.

The student body mirrors the neighborhood's demographic profile: 39% Asian, 29% White, 24% Hispanic, with very small Black (3%) and Multi-Racial (5%) populations. At 75% diversity index, the school is moderately diverse but less so than the district overall given the high Asian and White concentrations. Economic need is low at 27.6%, with 16% of students receiving IEP services — roughly typical for the area. PTA fundraising of $113 per student ($40,621 total) reflects active family involvement, though it trails the district average of $50 per student, possibly due to the small enrollment base.

Bay Terrace-Clearview is one of Queens' most family-stable neighborhoods, with 78% homeownership, a median household income of $109K, and only 6.4% poverty. The area scores exceptionally high on safety (77th percentile) and health environment (98th percentile), with low crime density and lead exposure rates. Transit access is weaker (38th percentile) — families should expect to drive or rely on buses rather than subway proximity. The education orientation score of 61 reflects a community that values schools without being overly competitive. With 15.6% households having children, this is a quieter residential area where families know each other.

This is a car-dependent neighborhood. Families without vehicles will need to plan for bus routes or carpooling, as the transit score below 40 indicates limited subway or bus frequency. The area is pedestrian-safe but spread out.