Success Academy Charter School - Union Square

Test scores here are extraordinary — 94% ELA and 96% math proficiency place this school far above District 2's already-strong averages of 73% and 73%. Looking at the trend, scores have been remarkably consistent over the past decade, hovering between 86-94% in ELA and 90-99% in Math, with the most recent year showing a bounce back from a 2023 dip. Grade-level data shows strength across all tested grades, with 7th grade reaching an exceptional 98% on both subjects — though 8th grade math (93%) is the only score below 94%. This is a school where academic rigor is clearly baked into the model.

The attendance rate of 93.9% is solid, but the chronic absenteeism rate of 81% is extraordinary and concerning — meaning the vast majority of students are missing significant school time despite the school's strong academics. The family survey response rate is effectively zero (2 responses), making it impossible to assess parent perception of school culture, safety, or communication. Teacher-reported safety is strong at 95%, and instruction quality ratings are high at 90%. Without family survey data, it's hard to gauge whether parents feel heard or if there's a strong home-school connection.

The student body is notably diverse with 34% Asian, 25% Hispanic, 22% White, 13% Black, and small percentages of Multi-Racial and Native American students — a diversity index of 84% that reflects the neighborhood's own mixed demographics. The economic need index of 47.7% indicates a meaningful population of students from higher-need households, though this is balanced by a relatively affluent neighborhood. At 971 students across a non-contiguous grade structure, the school feels larger than it might for a traditional K-5 elementary.

Gramercy is one of Manhattan's most family-oriented neighborhoods, with a 96.93 education orientation score and 95% family density. It's characterized by historic brownstones, quiet streets, and excellent transit access (97.7 score). The median home value of $922,000 and household income of $154,000 reflect a well-to-do area with 83% of residents holding bachelor's degrees. However, safety scores are notably low (17.24 percentile), and environmental health indicators show concerns around air quality and lead exposure — typical of dense urban neighborhoods.

Given the neighborhood's excellent transit score (97.7), most families arrive via subway or bus rather than walking, though the area is pedestrian-friendly with tree-lined streets. Families driving will face limited parking and typical Gramercy congestion.