P.S. 191 Paul Robeson

Test scores at P.S. 191 sit below the District 17 average — 51% ELA versus 60.5% district-wide, and just 35.4% math versus 57.3% district-wide. The school's overall quality rating of 1.73 out of 4 trails the district average of 2.36. But the story is messier than the averages suggest: math proficiency swung from 68.3% in 2023 to 32.1% in 2024, then back to 35.4% in 2025. Grade-level data shows particular struggle in third grade (31.3% ELA, 29.4% math) while fourth grade shows a standout ELA performance at 81.3%. The volatility suggests the school may be succeeding with certain cohorts while others fall behind — something families should probe deeper into.

The atmosphere at P.S. 191 appears warm and relational: 95% of parents report satisfaction, 97% trust teachers, and a remarkable 100% report strong relationships. Teacher instruction quality scores 84%, slightly below the 89.1% district average. However, only 2 teachers completed the survey — an extremely low response that makes the 100% relationship score hard to fully trust. Attendance is a real concern: the 87.4% rate trails the 91% district average, and chronic absenteeism hits 44.4% overall, with Hispanic students at 56.3% — a red flag for engagement. The bright spot: zero suspensions for three straight years, suggesting a restorative or trauma-informed approach to behavior.

With just 145 students across pre-K through 5th grade, this is a small school where many faces are familiar. The student body is 85% Black, 12% Hispanic, 2% White, and 1% Asian — reflecting the demographics of the surrounding Crown Heights neighborhood. The economic need index of 91.9 is notably high, meaning nearly all students qualify for free or reduced lunch. Nearly a third of students (31%) have IEPs, indicating substantial special education support. Despite the challenges that come with high economic need, the community appears tight-knit, and the near-unanimous family satisfaction suggests families feel at home here.

Crown Heights (North) is a transit-rich, family-dense neighborhood where 90% of the area ranks in the 90th percentile for family density. The education orientation score of 77 suggests many families with school-age children prioritize schools here. However, the safety score of 13.79 out of 100 is notably low — families should factor this into their daily routines. The median home value of $1.04 million reflects the neighborhood's gentrification, but the 20.2% poverty rate and 16.4% homeownership indicate a mix of long-time residents and newer arrivals. Transit access (86.97) is excellent for commuting parents.

The neighborhood's high family density and strong transit scores suggest most students walk or take public transportation. Families report the area is pedestrian-friendly but should be mindful of safety considerations given the low safety score.