P.S. 360

P.S. 360 delivers strong academic results that substantially outpace District 29 averages — ELA proficiency of 77% is 20 percentage points above the district average, and math at 74% exceeds the district by 21 points. However, the school's performance history shows volatility: scores dipped sharply in 2022 (53% ELA, 43% math) before recovering and then dipped again in 2024 (57% ELA) before bouncing back to current highs. Grade-level data shows third graders perform strongest (83% ELA), with performance gradually declining through fifth grade (71% ELA), suggesting potential challenges in sustained academic growth as students progress.

The survey data paints an exceptionally positive picture — 100% of teachers rate instruction quality and school safety at the highest level, and nearly all families express trust in teachers (97%) and the principal (98%). These are numbers most schools can only dream of. Yet there's a tension: chronic absenteeism sits at a troubling 73.5%, far exceeding what you'd expect at a school with such engaged families. Black students show the highest chronic absenteeism at 78%, compared to 52% for Hispanic students. On the positive side, attendance overall (92.4%) meets the district average, and the school has maintained zero suspensions for three consecutive years — a remarkable discipline record.

P.S. 360's student body is 89% Black, reflecting the demographics of St. Albans, one of Queens' most historically Black neighborhoods. With only 316 students total and an average class size of 23, this is a small school where relationships can be personal. The economic need index of 43% indicates a moderate level of student hardship, while 11% of students have IEPs. Family engagement is notably strong — PTA fundraising of $268 per student is eight times the district average, and family survey response rates of 77% suggest broad participation.

St. Albans is a stable, residential neighborhood in southeast Queens characterized by single-family homes (75% homeownership) and a 97% stability score. The median home value approaches $600,000, and the poverty rate is low at 9%. Families cite the area's safety (65/100) and community feel as major draws, though transit access is limited (39/100) — this is a neighborhood where cars are nearly essential. The area scores well on health environment indicators, with moderate air quality and lower environmental hazards compared to other parts of the city.

Transit options are limited in St. Albans; most families walk or drive. The neighborhood is residential and pedestrian-friendly for local walks, but getting to school without a car can be challenging.