P.S. 536

P.S. 536 now outperforms the district average in both math (57.4% vs. 43.3%) and overall score (2.01 vs. 1.76), though ELA sits just below the district average (43.3% vs. 44.6%). The story is really in the trajectory — in 2016, the school was at 16-17% proficiency in both subjects. Today, fourth graders are hitting 70% math proficiency, and the school has essentially closed the gap with the district on math while narrowing it on ELA. This isn't a school that was always strong — it's one that's gotten significantly stronger.

The survey data tells a remarkable story: 98% parent satisfaction, 100% trust in the principal, 96% teacher instruction quality, and zero suspensions for three consecutive years. Teachers report feeling supported (99% trust in principal) and collegial (97% collegial trust). However, only 77% of teachers report feeling safe — notably below the district average of 85%, and chronic absenteeism is staggeringly high at 78.5%. The day-to-day feel appears warm and trusting between families and staff, but attendance is a real challenge.

With 318 students, the school is small and intimate. The student body is predominantly Hispanic (61%) with significant Black (19%) and Asian (15%) populations — reflecting the neighborhood's diversity. Nearly all students (91.2%) come from economically disadvantaged households, and 16% have IEPs. The diversity index of 61% means this is a school where children from different backgrounds learn together. PTA fundraising is modest at $25 per student (about half the district average), suggesting fewer extra resources but also a tighter-knit community.

The Soundview-Bruckner-Bronx River area is a high-density, working-class Bronx neighborhood with a family orientation score in the 71st percentile. Median household income is just $41,359, and only 13% of residents own homes. The neighborhood scores very low on safety (15th percentile) and education orientation (28th percentile), but high on stability (83rd percentile). Families should expect a neighborhood that feels grounded in long-term residents but where safety concerns are real.

The neighborhood is dense and family-dense, though the low safety score suggests parents may prefer walking children to school rather than having older kids commute alone. Transit access is moderate (49th percentile).