S.T.A.R. Leadership Academy

Math scores have climbed steadily from 49.5% in 2022 to 66.1% in 2025 — a 17-point gain that now puts this school well above the district average of 57.3%. ELA proficiency sits at 57.2%, essentially matching the district average of 56.1%, though the trajectory has been bumpier (it dipped to 40.1% in 2024 before rebounding strongly). Third graders perform strongest in math (72.9%), while fifth graders lead in ELA (61.1%). The overall score of 2.47/4 places it above the district average of 2.27, positioning it among the stronger performers in District 27.

The survey data is extraordinary: 100% of families report strong relationships, 99% trust teachers, and 98% trust the principal. Teachers echo that sentiment — 99% feel safe at work and 96% trust the principal. This is a school where the community clearly feels connected to leadership. However, there's a tension with attendance: chronic absenteeism sits at a staggering 67.5%, more than double what's typical. The school has zero suspensions (below the 0.5% district average), which suggests a supportive approach to discipline. The attendance issue appears systemic rather than disciplinary — something families considering this school should factor into their planning.

With 411 students and a class size matching the district average at 23.4, this is a mid-sized elementary school. The student body is majority Hispanic (50%) with significant Asian representation (22%) and smaller Black (8%), White (14%), and Native American (4%) populations. The diversity index of 75% reflects a genuinely diverse community. Half of students (51.6%) come from high-economic-need households, and 13% have IEPs — roughly typical for the district. PTA fundraising of $73 per student is below the district average of $121, suggesting fewer extra funds for enrichment programs.

Ozone Park is a family-dense Queens neighborhood with a strong education orientation (91.95 percentile) and high homeownership rates (58%). The median home value of $696,423 and median household income of $83,103 suggest a working-to-middle-class community. Safety scores are moderate (58.62), and transit access is average (52.11). The area scores well on health environment (86.97), though lead exposure and asthma rates show some concern. The neighborhood's stability score of 59 indicates an established community.

Ozone Park is a drivable neighborhood — families often commute by car, though some walk to the zoned school. Public transit options exist but aren't as robust as in Manhattan or inner Queens.