Paula Hedbavny School

Test scores at Paula Hedbavny sit essentially at district averages — ELA at 48.7% versus the district's 47.1%, and math at 50.5% compared to 52.1% district average. Science scores are notably stronger at 75.7%. However, the trend line tells a more complicated story: scores peaked around 2018-2019 (ELA at 54.4%, math at 53.3%) and have since dipped, with 2024 showing the lowest ELA performance at 41.6% before rebounding slightly in 2025. The middle school grades show wild variance — Grade 8 performs strongly (76.3% ELA, 64.9% math) while Grade 6 lags significantly (28.1% ELA, 50% math). This inconsistency across grades suggests the academic experience may depend heavily on which team a student lands with.

The culture and climate data paints a picture of a school where relationships work — and it shows up in the numbers. Parent satisfaction sits at 93%, parent-teacher trust at 97%, and parent-principal trust nearly universal at 99%. Teachers report 90% instruction quality and 94% trust in leadership, with 95% collegial trust among staff. Teacher-reported safety is exceptionally high at 98%, well above the district average of 93%. The discipline record is remarkable: zero suspensions for three years running. The one concerning metric is chronic absenteeism at 64.6% — that's high, and it spans demographic groups (65.6% of males, 63.9% of Hispanic students). Attendance overall is 90.7%, essentially matching the district average. The day-to-day feel seems to be one of strong community and trust, though the absenteeism pattern suggests some families struggle with consistent attendance.

The student body is 76% Hispanic, reflecting Inwood's demographic makeup, with 16% White, 4% Black, and 3% Asian students. Twenty-one percent of students have IEPs, and the economic need index sits at 64.5% — meaning a majority of families face economic challenges. Yet engagement is remarkably high: the PTA raised $148 per student, nearly triple the district average of $52. This is a community that shows up for its school, even when resources are tight. The diversity index is 44%, and with 76% Hispanic enrollment, this is a school where the neighborhood's identity is strongly represented.

Inwood is a neighborhood of working-class families and renters — only 9.2% homeownership, with a median household income of $63,123 and 15.4% poverty rate. Despite modest economics, 40% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating an education-oriented community. Transit access is strong (63.6 percentile), making commutes manageable. The safety score is low (10.34 percentile), which is a reality of the neighborhood — parents should factor this into their calculus. Family density is moderate (53.26 percentile), and there's a sense of community rooted in long-term residents. The neighborhood has parks and is close to the river, giving families access to outdoor space.

Inwood is generally walkable, and the school draws from across the neighborhood. Transit access is strong, making it feasible for families without cars. However, the neighborhood's lower safety score means younger children benefit from walking with adults.