P.S. 58 - The School of Heroes

P.S. 58 performs above the District 24 average in both subjects — 54.9% in ELA versus 51.1% district-wide, and 60.4% in math versus 54.8% district-wide. The overall quality score of 2.31 out of 4 also edges out the district average of 2.12. However, the trend line shows some volatility: ELA peaked at 58% in 2018, dipped to 46% in 2024, and has rebounded to 54.9%. Math has been steadier, climbing from 51% in 2016 to the current 60.4% with only minor dips. Grade-level data shows 4th and 5th graders outperforming 3rd graders in both subjects, suggesting early elementary years may need additional support.

The survey data tells a story of strong community bonds but concerning attendance patterns. Parents report near-universal satisfaction (94%) and exceptional trust in teachers (98%) and the principal (96%). Every single parent surveyed said the school fosters strong relationships. Teachers report feeling safe (97%) and maintain solid collegial trust (84%), though their assessment of instruction quality (79%) falls below the district average of 92%. The discipline record is exemplary — zero suspensions for three consecutive years. The big red flag is chronic absenteeism: 74% of students are chronically absent, with rates as high as 87% among Asian students. This suggests attendance enforcement or family engagement around showing up consistently may be a challenge.

With 828 students, P.S. 58 is a mid-sized elementary school that reflects the surrounding neighborhood's working- and middle-class demographics. The student body is 44% Hispanic, 39% Asian, 14% White, and small percentages of Black, Multi-Racial, and Native American students — a diverse mix that produces a diversity index of 62%. Nearly 60% of students come from homes with economic need, and 16% have IEPs. PTA fundraising is modest at $9 per student (versus $32 district average), suggesting fewer extra fundraising resources than some peer schools.

Maspeth is a tight-knit, residential Queens neighborhood known for its quiet streets, single-family homes, and community feel — the kind of place where neighbors recognize each other at the local deli. With a median home value of $783,000 and homeownership at 52%, it's stable and family-oriented, though only 23% of households have children. The neighborhood scores moderately on safety (68th percentile) and has lower transit access (36th percentile), meaning most families likely drive or walk. The education orientation score of 45 suggests this isn't a neighborhood where every family is deeply plugged into school performance — it's more of a traditional residential area where schools serve the community.

Given the moderate transit score, families likely walk or drive. Grand Avenue is a main thoroughfare, so traffic and parking can be a morning consideration for drivers.