P.S. 177 The Marlboro

Test scores at P.S. 177 have followed a bumpy but upward trajectory — from 36% ELA in 2016 to 65.4% in 2025, and from 39% math to 68.1% over the same period. Both metrics now exceed the District 21 averages (60% ELA, 63% math), placing the school solidly above where the district typically lands. The grade-level breakdown shows consistency rather than a weak link — third graders hit 62.9% ELA, fourth graders 63.4%, and fifth graders 69.7%, suggesting the improvement isn't a fluke in one cohort but a schoolwide pattern. The overall quality score of 2.67 out of 4 also sits above the district average of 2.46.

The survey data reveals a school where families feel heard and students feel safe — 95% parent satisfaction, 98% parent-teacher trust, and 99% teacher-reported safety paint a picture of a place where the day-to-day experience is positive. Teachers rate instruction quality at 91%, and the 'strong relationships' score of 97% is exceptional. That said, there's a notable divide in how teachers view leadership: teacher-principal trust sits at 64% and teacher collegial trust at 63%, suggesting some tension among staff that parents may not directly perceive. Attendance is the clear weak spot — while the overall attendance rate of 92.8% is slightly above district average, the chronic absenteeism rate of 75.8% is strikingly high, with particularly elevated rates among Asian students (82.2%) and Hispanic students (74.2%). The discipline record is pristine with zero suspensions across three years.

With 876 students split roughly evenly among Asian (31%), Hispanic (31%), and White (36%) families, P.S. 177 reflects the multicultural character of Gravesend. The diversity index of 65% is notably high, and with 17% of students having IEPs, the school serves a meaningful population with special needs. An economic need index of 80 means most families face significant financial challenges, yet the community remains engaged — 774 families responded to the survey (a 90% response rate), and PTA fundraising brought in over $48,000 this year, showing active parent involvement despite economic pressures.

Gravesend is one of Brooklyn's most family-dense neighborhoods, with children in roughly 26% of households, and it's known for its strong community ties and local businesses. The area scores well on transit access (70.5 percentile) and family density (85.4 percentile), making it practical for commuters, though safety scores (47.5 percentile) indicate some concerns families should be aware of. The median home value near a million dollars reflects the neighborhood's desirability even as a quarter of households live below the poverty line.

the school is accessible by foot from most of its zoned area, and the strong transit score reflects easy access to the subway — many families walk or take the train rather than drive