Public School 9 The Sarah Smith Garnet School

PS 9 performs well above the District 13 average — 72.2% ELA proficiency compared to the district's 53.1%, and 58.7% in math versus 45.9% district-wide. The school has shown dramatic recovery after a dip during the pandemic years (2022-2024 saw scores tumble to the mid-40s), with 2025 numbers jumping back above pre-pandemic peaks. Third graders lead the way with 76.2% ELA proficiency, suggesting strong early instruction, though performance drops somewhat by fifth grade (66.7% ELA). The overall 2.62 score on the 4-point scale puts the school solidly in the upper tier for District 13.

The climate data tells a remarkably consistent story: this is a school where people feel connected and safe. Parent satisfaction sits at 91%, with nearly universal trust in both teachers (98%) and the principal (98%). Teachers report 89% quality of instruction and 90% trust in the principal — numbers that suggest real buy-in from staff. Attendance is strong at 94.6%, well above the district average. The discipline record is spotless: zero suspensions for three consecutive years. However, chronic absenteeism at 86.6% raises a question worth investigating — the definition or measurement of this metric may warrant clarification with the school.

With 723 students, PS 9 is a medium-sized elementary school that reflects the neighborhood's diversity — 39% Black, 30% White, 20% Hispanic, 9% Asian, and 2% multiracial. The diversity index of 77% is notably high. Economic need is moderate at 38.5%, and 13% of students have IEPs. The PTA raised an impressive $802 per student ($580,132 total), well above the district average of $438 per student — a sign of active, financially engaged families.

Prospect Heights is a highly educated, family-oriented neighborhood with a median household income of $150,273 and only 6.4% poverty rate. The education orientation score of 97.32 (near the top percentile) tells you everything — families here care deeply about schools. Transit access is excellent (76.63), making commutes manageable. Safety indicators show some concerns (crime density and air quality metrics suggest an urban environment), but the neighborhood is known for its community feel and proximity to Prospect Park.

Many families walk to school given the neighborhood's walkability and the fact this is a zoned school serving its immediate area. Strong transit options exist for those coming from further afield.