P.S. 306

Test scores at P.S. 306 have climbed meaningfully over the past decade — ELA proficiency went from 16.8% in 2016 to 39% in 2025, and math from 16.5% to 38.4% — but the school still trails District 10 averages (45% ELA, 43.5% math). The 2025 scores represent a slight dip from 2023's peak (39% ELA vs. 30.8%, though math improved), suggesting progress isn't linear. Grade-level data shows Grade 5 outperforming earlier grades (43.6% ELA), which indicates older students may be benefiting from sustained interventions. The overall quality score of 1.55/4 sits below the district average of 1.77, confirming this is a school where students are catching up rather than leading.

The climate data tells a nuanced story. Parents love this school — 94% satisfaction and 97% trust in both teachers and principal are exceptional, rivaling some of the highest-performing schools in the city. Teachers report solid instruction quality (87%) and reasonable safety perceptions (82%), though both fall slightly below district averages. The standout is discipline: zero suspensions for three years running, a remarkable record in any context. However, chronic absenteeism is a serious concern at 69.5% — nearly 70% of students are missing significant instructional time, which likely explains why academic gains haven't been faster. Teacher collegial trust (74%) is the weakest metric, suggesting some friction among staff that doesn't extend to families.

With 71% Hispanic and 27% Black students, P.S. 306 reflects the demographic makeup of its high-need neighborhood. Nearly 93% of students qualify for free lunch, and 20% have IEPs — both well above typical district averages. The diversity index of 37% is relatively low, meaning the student body is fairly homogeneous, which is common in zoned schools serving specific neighborhoods. Class sizes average 22.9 students, identical to the district average, so there's no particular size advantage or disadvantage.

University Heights/Morris Heights is a dense, transit-rich Bronx neighborhood with significant challenges. The area scores very low on safety (6.13/100) and has high crime density and collision rates, though it's quite walkable with strong transit access (69.73). The neighborhood is family-dense (94.25 percentile) but has very few households with children (14.1%), suggesting many families are multigenerational or composed of young adults without kids. With only 6.5% homeownership and a median income around $32,000, this is a working-class community where families are navigating economic pressure. There's limited green space and the health environment scores poorly (asthma rates are notably high).

The area is highly walkable with good transit options, though safety concerns during certain times may affect how families navigate to and from school