P.S. 309 The George E. Wibecan Preparatory Academy

P.S. 309 shows a remarkable academic transformation. Just two years ago, ELA proficiency sat at 27.8% and math at 26.8% — well below district averages. In 2025, ELA surged to 65%, exceeding the district average of 57.6%, while math reached 46.2%, still below the 57% district average but nearly doubled from the prior year. The overall quality score of 2.22/4 places the school slightly below the district average of 2.29, though this snapshot may not reflect the recent trajectory. Grade 5 shows stronger ELA (58.8%) than math (31.3%), suggesting literacy gains are taking hold more firmly than numeracy.

The school's climate data tells a complicated but largely positive story. Family trust metrics are exceptional: 100% parent satisfaction, 100% parent-principal trust, and 99% parent-teacher trust — all well above district averages. Teachers report strong collegial relationships (93% collegial trust) and high safety perceptions (96%). Instruction quality as rated by teachers reaches 92%, exceeding the district average of 86%. Discipline is notably restorative: zero suspensions for the past three years. However, chronic absenteeism at 43.8% is alarmingly high, particularly for male students (47.9%) and Black students (53%), suggesting significant attendance challenges that may undermine the academic gains.

The school serves 172 students in a predominantly Black and Hispanic community. Demographics show 60% Black, 29% Hispanic, 5% multi-racial, 4% white, and 2% Asian students. With a diversity index of 57% and 78.4% economic need index, this is a high-need population — 23% of students have IEPs. The neighborhood data shows 23% poverty and a low homeownership rate (26.7%), reflecting a community of renters in flux. The median home value of $1.18 million suggests neighborhood changes are underway, but household income of $70,755 and only 11.9% of households with children indicate this remains a challenging environment for families.

Bedford-Stuyvesant is a neighborhood in transformation — high transit access (94.64 percentile), growing home values ($1.18 million median), but real challenges for families. The safety score of 22.61 is low, with elevated crime density and asthma rates. However, family density is high (87.36 percentile) and education orientation scores well (69.35), meaning families with school-age children are common and value education. Only 11.9% of households have children, suggesting many residents are young adults or seniors. Parks and recreation data isn't provided, but the neighborhood's density and transit access mean amenities are walkable.

The neighborhood scores very high on transit (94.64), making it accessible by subway and bus. Families likely walk or take public transit rather than drive. The low safety score and crime density suggest parents may be cautious about independent movement, especially after school.