P.S. 290 Juan Morel Campos

Test scores at P.S. 290 have declined substantially since their 2019 peak (ELA 39.8%, Math 47.4%) and now sit at 30.8% ELA and 42.3% math — both below the district averages of roughly 49%. Grade 3 shows particular strength in math (61.4%), suggesting some students are getting strong foundations, but grades 4 and 5 lag behind significantly. The overall quality score of 1.46/4 places this school in the lower tier of District 19.

There's a disconnect here. Parents feel good — 93% satisfaction and 95% trust in teachers — but teachers report lower confidence in leadership (58% principal trust) and instruction quality (72%, below the 88% district average). Chronic absenteeism is a major concern at nearly 63%, which likely impacts learning. On the positive side, there have been zero suspensions for three consecutive years, indicating a restorative or supportive approach to behavior. Teacher-reported safety is 86%, slightly below the 92% district average.

This is a predominantly Hispanic (76%) school in a neighborhood that reflects that makeup. With 87% economic need and 20% of students receiving special education services, the population faces significant challenges. The diversity index of 43% is moderate, with Black students representing 17%. Class sizes average 21.8, matching the district average.

East New York is a working-class Brooklyn neighborhood with significant transit access (70.88 score) but serious safety concerns (24.9 safety score). The area has seen real estate growth — median home value is $616,916 — but only 17% of households have children and just 16% of residents have a bachelor's degree. There are family-oriented resources, though the neighborhood scores low on education orientation (30.27).

Families in the zone walk to school, while others rely on busing or local transit — the area is well-served by public transportation