P.S. 196 Ten Eyck

Test scores at P.S. 196 Ten Eyck have followed a bumpy trajectory — rising from just 18.9% ELA in 2016 to a high of 41.5% in 2019, then cratering during remote learning (30.4% in 2022), rebounding strongly in 2023 (41.4% ELA), dropping shockingly in 2024 (22.1% ELA), and recovering again in 2025 to 46.2% ELA and 38.2% math. This volatility is concerning — it suggests the school lacks consistent instructional stability. Currently, both scores fall well below the district averages of 62% ELA and 59% math. Third graders perform strongest (52.6% in both subjects), while fifth graders lag in math (27.3%), suggesting that math instruction may be weaker in upper grades or that pandemic disruptions hit older students harder.

The survey data here tells a striking story: nearly every measure of trust, safety, and relationships scores at 95% or above. Parents give 95% satisfaction, 96% trust teachers, and 95% trust the principal. Teachers report 100% instruction quality, 100% collegial trust, and 97% feeling safe. The school has had zero suspensions for two of the past three years. Yet there's a disconnect: chronic absenteeism sits at 50.2% — roughly half of students are missing too much school. This suggests that while families who are engaged feel very positive, a significant portion of the community isn't showing up regularly. The school appears to function as a tight-knit hub for participating families, but may struggle to reach those who've drifted away.

This is a high-need community: 72% Hispanic, 19% Black, 83% economic need index, and 21% students with IEPs. The school reflects its neighborhood demographics closely. PTA fundraising is minimal at $13 per student (the district average is $123), indicating limited discretionary family income rather than lack of engagement — 115 families completed the survey, showing real participation. The diversity index of 49% reflects a relatively homogeneous student body typical of this part of Brooklyn.

East Williamsburg is a mixed-use, transit-accessible neighborhood with a strong industrial past being reshaped by new residents. The median home value exceeds $1 million, yet only 12.5% of residents own homes — most rent. Only 9.2% of households have children, making this more of a young-professional and creative-class area than a traditional family neighborhood. Safety scores (43.3) are below average, though transit access (61.3) is solid. There's a notable amount of lead risk (21.2% elevated rate) and asthma rates (104 per 10,000) that parents should be aware of.

The school is along Bushwick Avenue, a major Brooklyn corridor with good subway access nearby. Families from the zoned area can walk or take short bus rides; driving is difficult given limited parking and heavy traffic.