P.S. 176 Cambria Heights

P.S. 176 delivers strong academics with ELA and math proficiency rates (79.1% and 81.8%) that outpace the District 29 averages by roughly 22-28 percentage points — a meaningful gap that reflects real instructional strength. The school has shown an upward trajectory over the past decade, climbing from 58.2%/48.5% in 2016 to today's marks, with a notable bounce-back after a dip in 2024. Performance is consistent across grades 3-5, with math particularly strong at 83.3% in grade 4.

The culture here is defined by exceptional family trust — 95% of parents report strong relationships, and nearly all feel trust in teachers (94%) and the principal (93%). Teacher-reported safety is high at 94%. However, there's a notable gap between family sentiment and teacher sentiment: instruction quality scores (82%) and teacher-principal trust (77%) both fall below district averages, and only 26 teachers responded to the survey. Chronic absenteeism is high at 81.4%, which may reflect post-pandemic attendance challenges more than school climate issues. The zero-suspension record is a genuine strength, suggesting a restorative or relationship-based approach to behavior.

With 76% Black students, P.S. 176 reflects the demographics of Cambria Heights, a neighborhood that remains predominantly Black with growing Asian (5%) and Hispanic (6%) populations. The diversity index of 49% and economic need index of 39.4 suggest a middle-class community that is more affluent than many Queens neighborhoods. The 12% IEP population is typical, and class sizes (23.1) match the district average.

Cambria Heights is one of Queens' more stable, family-oriented neighborhoods — think tree-lined blocks, a predominantly homeowner population (86.4%), and a poverty rate of just 5.4%. It's not a transit hub (transit score: 40.23), so most families walk or drive. Safety scores are moderate (69.35), and the neighborhood's stability score of 98.85 reflects long-term residents and established community bonds. Families will find the area quiet and residential, with the typical amenities of a middle-class Queens neighborhood.

Families primarily walk or drive — the neighborhood is residential and low-traffic, making for safe walks to school, though it's not near major subway lines