Space Shuttle Columbia School

Test scores here beat the district average — 64.9% in ELA and 65.1% in math compared to district averages of 61.3% and 61.0% respectively. But the real story is the trajectory. This school has climbed steadily from 47% ELA in 2016 to nearly 65% today, with math jumping from 35% to 65% over the same period. That's not a fluke — that's consistent improvement across multiple years. Grade-level data shows strength across the board, with 4th grade particularly strong at 66.7% ELA and 73.6% math. The overall score of 2.6/4 also sits above the district average of 2.45.

The survey numbers here are remarkable. Parents give 94% satisfaction, trust teachers at 97% and the principal at 98%. Teachers report 100% safety and 99% collegial trust. Strong relationships between adults and students? Also 100%. This is a school where the adults clearly trust each other and families trust the leadership. Attendance-wise, the 93.1% rate beats the district average, though the 78.4% chronic absenteeism rate is worth noting — it suggests some families struggle with consistent attendance despite the school's other strengths. Discipline is a non-issue: zero suspensions for three consecutive years.

With 684 students, this is a mid-sized elementary with a notably diverse population: 43% White, 26% Hispanic, 25% Asian, 3% Black. The diversity index of 71% is higher than many Staten Island schools. Economic need sits at 52.4%, meaning roughly half the student body comes from families qualifying for free or reduced lunch. About 22% of students have IEPs. The neighborhood around the school is heavily homeowner-dominated (76%) with a median household income around $98,000 and low poverty (10.5%).

This is one of Staten Island's most stable, family-oriented neighborhoods — think tree-lined blocks, single-family homes, and a 76% homeownership rate. Safety scores are strong at 85 out of 100, and the area registers high stability (87). Transit access is limited (score of 18), which tells you everything about getting here without a car. Education orientation scores 65, suggesting this is a community where families value schools. There's virtually no poverty here (10.5%), so the school's 52% economic need index reflects a student body that draws from beyond the immediate neighborhood.

Walkable within the immediate neighborhood, but families living beyond a short radius will need a car — transit options are minimal in this part of Staten Island.