P.S. K225 - The Eileen E. Zaglin

Test scores at P.S. 225 fall well below District 21 averages — ELA proficiency of 37.7% compared to the district's 60%, and math at 45.6% versus 63.2%. The school's overall score of 1.67 out of 4 places it near the bottom of the district. However, there's a mixed trend: math improved substantially from 34% in 2022 to nearly 50% by 2023 before settling at 45.6%, while ELA has been more volatile, dropping to 29.8% in 2024 before recovering somewhat to 37.7%. Grade-level data shows stronger performance in middle school math (62.5% in Grade 7) but significant weakness in Grade 8 (26% math, 22% ELA), suggesting a possible transition challenge as students approach Regents readiness.

The survey data reveals a school with exceptionally strong relational foundations: 100% of families report strong relationships, 97% trust the principal, and 95% trust teachers. Teachers report 96% safety and 93% instruction quality. However, this positive climate coexists with a serious attendance problem — chronic absenteeism sits at 52.7%, roughly double the district average, with particularly high rates among Black (62%) and Hispanic (63%) students. Suspensions increased from 2 in 2021-22 to 7 in 2023-24, though the 1% rate remains below the district average of 0.5%. The attendance issue, especially the stark racial disparities in chronic absenteeism, is the most pressing climate challenge — families feel connected to the school, but many students aren't showing up regularly enough to benefit from that environment.

The student body is predominantly White (42%) and Hispanic (32%), with a notable Asian population (22%) and very small Black (2%) and Native American (2%) populations. The diversity index of 67% reflects a moderately diverse community. With an economic need index of 82.2% — meaning over 80% of students meet poverty indicators — this is a high-need school serving families facing significant financial challenges. The 17% IEP population is notable. Parents are highly engaged through surveys (609 family responses) despite the socioeconomic challenges, and the PTA raised nearly $18,000, though that's only $20 per student compared to a district average of $79.

Brighton Beach is a densely populated, working-class neighborhood along Brooklyn's southern waterfront known for its large Russian and Eastern European immigrant community. The area has moderate transit access (75th percentile) but lower family density (59th percentile) and significant safety concerns — crime density ranks in the lowest 32nd percentile for safety. Just 25% of residents own homes, and median household income is under $50,000 with a 23% poverty rate. However, over half of residents have BA+ degrees, suggesting a population that values education despite economic constraints. The neighborhood offers beach access and strong cultural community ties.

Brighton Beach is highly walkable with good public transit options via the B and Q subway lines and multiple bus routes. Many families walk to school, though the area's traffic and parking can be challenging during peak hours.