P.S. 256 Benjamin Banneker

Test scores at P.S. 256 are significantly below the District 13 averages — ELA proficiency of 29.2% versus the district's 53.1%, and math at 25.6% versus 45.9%. The school earned an overall score of 1.1 out of 4, compared to the district average of 1.98. Looking at the trend, scores peaked in 2018 (ELA 42.4%, math 41%) before dropping sharply in 2022 during the pandemic (ELA hit 20%, math just 12.1%), and have since recovered somewhat but remain below pre-pandemic levels. Third graders show the lowest ELA performance at 23.1%, while fifth graders perform equally in both subjects at 30.3%. Teacher instruction quality ratings are notably low at 60% compared to the district average of 87.6%.

The climate picture is mixed. On the positive side, parent trust in teachers is exceptional (97%), family relationships score 100%, and the school has maintained zero suspensions for three consecutive years — a rare record that suggests restorative approaches are working. Teacher-reported safety is strong at 96%, on par with district averages. However, teacher-principal trust is notably low at 46%, and teacher instruction quality ratings (60%) lag significantly behind the district. Chronic absenteeism is a serious concern at 46.2%, well above the district average. Parent satisfaction sits at 86% and family survey response rates are low at 18%. The day-to-day feel appears to be one where teachers and families have strong bonds with each other, but there may be disconnect between staff and leadership.

With 212 students across pre-K through 5th grade, this is a small school where most children are zoned and likely walk to school. The student body is 54% Black, 38% Hispanic, 4% Asian, and 3% White, with a diversity index of 55%. Economic need is very high at 83.8% — meaning most families qualify for free or reduced lunch. About 13% of students have IEPs. The neighborhood around the school is predominantly Black and working-class, with a 48.2% college-educated population and 20.4% homeownership. PTA fundraising is very low at $23 per student compared to the district average of $438, suggesting fewer resources for enrichment programs.

Bedford-Stuyvesant is a historically Black neighborhood in central Brooklyn known for its brownstones, family roots, and increasing development. The neighborhood scores very high on transit (86th percentile) and family density (92nd percentile), meaning getting around is easy and there are lots of kids. Education orientation scores 71st percentile, indicating many families with school-age children. However, safety scores are low at 22nd percentile, and the poverty rate sits at 27.9%. The median home value is over $1.2 million, but only 20% of residents own homes. There's good access to transit and local shops, and the neighborhood has seen new cafes and businesses move in, though it retains its working-class character.

Very walkable neighborhood with high family density — most zoned students likely walk or take short bus rides. The area is pedestrian-friendly with good subway access.