P.S. 8 Shirlee Solomon

The academic performance at P.S. 8 is exceptional by any measure. ELA proficiency of 88.9% and math proficiency of 95.5% place the school roughly 27-34 percentage points above the district average — a gap that represents years of academic progress. The trend line shows consistent, sustained growth: math proficiency has climbed from 64.9% in 2016 to 97% in 2025, while ELA has risen from 67.3% to 88.9% over the same period. Grade-level data reveals particularly strong performance in the upper elementary years, with 5th graders achieving near-perfect math scores (100%) and strong reading scores (97.3%). Even third graders, the youngest tested group, show strong foundations with 93.2% ELA and 98.4% math proficiency.

The school culture reflects what families consistently report as a deeply trusting environment. Parent satisfaction sits at 96%, teacher-principal trust at 98%, and every single parent surveyed (100%) reported strong relationships with teachers — numbers that are nearly unheard of in NYC public schools. Teachers report 100% instruction quality and 95% safety, both above district averages. Perhaps most notably, the school has maintained zero suspensions for three consecutive years, suggesting an approach to discipline that prioritizes relationship-building over exclusionary practices. The attendance rate of 94.7% runs about three points above the district average, indicating families see value in showing up consistently.

The student body reflects its neighborhood: predominantly white (60%) with significant Asian representation (22%) and smaller Hispanic (14%) and Black (2%) populations. The diversity index of 59% is moderate, and the economic need index of 35.5% is notably lower than many city schools, reflecting the neighborhood's relative affluence. At 540 students across six grades plus pre-K, the school maintains a manageable scale that allows for the strong relationships families report. Twenty-two percent of students have IEPs — a figure that suggests the school serves a range of learning needs alongside its high-performing core.

Great Kills-Eltingville is one of Staten Island's most stable, family-dense neighborhoods. With an 80.5% homeownership rate and median home values approaching $640,000, the area attracts families seeking suburban-style living with New York City access. The neighborhood scores very high on safety (81.6) and stability (93.1), and families report a strong education orientation (72). However, transit access is limited (26), meaning most families commute by car. The area offers parks and family resources typical of Staten Island's more affluent corridors, though getting to Manhattan requires patience.

The neighborhood is car-dependent; most families drive or rely on school buses. Walking is common for families who live within the zoned area, but there is minimal pedestrian infrastructure connecting to transit hubs.