P.S. 198 Isidor E. Ida Straus

P.S. 198 consistently outperforms District 2 averages — 81.7% ELA and 81.5% math proficiency versus district averages of 73.2% and 72.5% respectively. The trajectory is remarkable: from 54% ELA in 2016 to over 81% in 2025, a 27-point jump that reflects either major instructional shifts or changing enrollment patterns (or both). Grade 4 particularly stands out with 88.9% ELA proficiency, while even the lower-performing Grade 5 cohort hits 75% in reading. The overall 3.26/4 score places it solidly above the district average of 2.91, making this one of the stronger zoned options in a district full of competitive schools.

The survey data is overwhelmingly positive — 96% parent satisfaction, 98% teacher instruction quality, and a remarkable 100% teacher-reported safety. Relationships between families and staff score at ceiling (100% strong relationships), and teachers report complete trust in their colleagues (100% collegial trust). Discipline is entirely absent: zero suspensions for three consecutive years. Yet the 75.2% chronic absenteeism rate casts a long shadow over these sunny numbers. The disparity is stark along racial lines: 90.9% of white students attend consistently versus 49% of Hispanic students and 62.5% of Black students. This suggests the school's climate may work beautifully for some families while others face barriers to attendance the data doesn't fully explain.

The student body reflects its wealthy neighborhood: 43% white, 28% Hispanic, 15% Asian, 7% Black, with a diversity index of 79% — diverse for the Upper East Side but less so than more mixed Manhattan neighborhoods. The economic need index of 39.3% is well below the citywide average, meaning fewer students face poverty-related barriers to learning. At 21%, the IEP population is notable, suggesting robust special education services. PTA fundraising of $608 per student — well above the district average of $517 — indicates active family involvement and resources that supplement the curriculum.

Carnegie Hill and the surrounding Upper East Side is one of New York's most family-oriented neighborhoods, with a 98.08 family density score and 93.49 education orientation — meaning families here prioritize schooling and have the resources to support it. Transit access is excellent (95.02), making commutes manageable even from other boroughs. The trade-off is safety: a score of 26.44 places this area in the lower percentile for crime and collision rates. Median home values exceed $1.85 million, and 84% of residents hold bachelor's degrees or higher, giving the neighborhood a distinctly affluent, educated character.

The school is accessible via the Q and 6 trains, with strong bus connections. Many families walk, given the neighborhood's pedestrian-friendly streets and the high percentage of local residents. Street parking can be challenging during school hours.