P.S. 5 Port Morris

Test scores at P.S. 5 have improved substantially over the past decade, with ELA climbing from 14.5% in 2016 to 39.2% in 2025 and math jumping dramatically from 9.5% in 2022 to 34.9% this year. However, the school still trails district averages (51% ELA, 49% math) and received an overall score of 1.48 out of 4. Performance varies significantly by grade: elementary students in grades 3 and 4 show strong proficiency (math at 65-72%), while middle school grades — particularly grade 8 math at just 15% — struggle. The school offers robust STEM programming including computer science and robotics, but the middle school academic trajectory is a concern.

This is a school with a paradox: families love it (97% satisfaction, 96% parent-teacher trust), but teachers report feeling less safe (61% vs. 80.5% district average) and chronic absenteeism is extremely high at 76.4%. Attendance has improved to 93%, which beats the district average, but the large number of chronically absent students suggests underlying challenges with getting kids to school consistently. Discipline is minimal (1% suspension rate, only 4 suspensions last year), which is positive. Teachers rate instruction quality highly (90%) and trust the principal (94%), indicating stable leadership. The day-to-day feel seems to be one of strong relationships within the school community, but with structural barriers around attendance and safety perception.

P.S. 5 reflects its Melrose neighborhood: predominantly Hispanic (70%) and Black (27%) students, with 94.7% economic need index — among the highest in the district. Nearly 27% of students have IEPs. The school serves a community where median household income is just $30,236 and 38% live in poverty. Despite these challenges, the diversity index (43%) shows a reasonably varied student body, and families report high satisfaction. The school offers extensive programming (90/100 richness score) including arts, sports, STEM, and Saturday Academy, giving students opportunities often lacking in high-poverty neighborhoods.

Melrose is a high-poverty, high-density Bronx neighborhood with strong transit access (78th percentile) but significant challenges. Safety scores are very low (2nd percentile), reflecting the reality of the South Bronx. Only 10% of residents own homes, and just 14% have bachelor's degrees. However, 16% of households have children, and there are family-oriented resources in the area. The neighborhood sits near several subway lines, making it accessible from other parts of the Bronx and Manhattan.

The school is located near major transit hubs in the South Bronx, with good subway access. Families from across the district and beyond can reach it relatively easily. However, the low safety score of the neighborhood means parents should consider logistics carefully, particularly for younger children walking to school.