P.S. 889

Test scores at P.S. 889 have nearly doubled over three years — ELA went from 42.9% in 2022 to 69.5% in 2025, and math improved from 42.1% to 62.3%. Both metrics now exceed the District 15 averages (65.5% ELA, 63.3% math), which is a notable reversal from where the school stood just a few years ago. The school scores 2.64 out of 4 overall, slightly above the district average of 2.58. Grade-level data shows particular strength in 4th grade (82.3% ELA, 68.3% math), while 3rd grade trails behind peers — a pattern worth watching for incoming families.

The survey data tells a remarkable story: 99% of teachers rate instruction quality as high, 98% feel safe at work, and trust in leadership is near-perfect (100% teacher-principal trust, 96% parent-principal trust). These numbers suggest a school where adults genuinely collaborate and families feel heard. Attendance sits at 92.7%, just below the district average, but chronic absenteeism is notably high at 79.3% — a district-wide pattern that affects this school too. Discipline is exemplary: zero suspensions in the past two years after one incident in 2022-23. The day-to-day feel is clearly one of warmth and mutual respect.

With 312 students across pre-K through 5th grade, P.S. 889 is a small-to-moderate elementary school. The student body is notably diverse: 32% white, 28% Black, 20% Hispanic, and 17% Asian, with a diversity index of 82%. About half of students (49.7%) qualify for free or reduced lunch, and 14% have IEPs — roughly typical for the neighborhood. PTA fundraising is $363 per student, below the district average of $491, suggesting fewer extracurricular extras funded by families but still meaningful community support.

Kensington is a densely populated, family-heavy Brooklyn neighborhood with strong transit connections (70th percentile) and a highly educated population (51% BA+). Median home values top $871,000, and homeownership is low at 34.5%, indicating many renters. The neighborhood scores poorly on safety (34th percentile) and has elevated environmental health concerns — lead exposure and asthma rates are notable. However, it scores high on family density (79th percentile) and education orientation (71st percentile), suggesting a community that values schools despite other challenges.

Kensington is highly walkable with good transit access, making it practical for families without cars. However, the lower safety percentile suggests parents should be mindful of routes and timing, particularly around certain blocks.