Success Academy Charter School - Upper West

Test scores here are in a league of their own — 95% ELA and 96% math proficiency, compared to district averages of 59% and 54%. These aren't new highs; the school has maintained 90%+ proficiency in both subjects since at least 2016, with math consistently in the mid-90s and ELA climbing from the high 80s to the mid-90s in recent years. Grade-level data shows strong performance across the board, with 7th grade ELA reaching an exceptional 98.8%. The overall score of 3.82/4 reflects this sustained excellence. For families, this means students are not just meeting grade-level expectations — they're consistently exceeding them.

The survey data picture is incomplete — only 4 family responses were received, giving a 0% response rate, so the day-to-day climate is hard to gauge from parent surveys. Attendance is solid at 94.1% (above the district average of 90.4%), suggesting families value being there. However, the chronic absenteeism figure of 81.9% appears anomalous and warrants clarification from the school. Without robust survey data, parents should ask directly about teacher retention, communication frequency, and how the school handles behavioral issues.

The student body looks quite different from the affluent neighborhood surrounding the school. While the Upper West Side has a median household income of $152K and only 8% poverty, 55% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, and 39% are Hispanic, 19% Black, 19% White, 14% Asian, with 4% Native American. The diversity index of 87% is high, and the school draws from across the city through its lottery. At 14%, the IEP population is slightly above typical, suggesting some support for students with special needs. This is a school that serves a economically and racially diverse mix of kids despite its wealthy zip code.

The Upper West Side is one of Manhattan's most family-centric neighborhoods, scoring 98th percentile for family density and 95th for education orientation. It's transit-rich (91st percentile) with easy access to Central Park and the Museum of Natural History. The median home value of $1.5M reflects the area's affluence, though only 38% of residents own homes. Safety scores are moderate (24th percentile), which is something parents should factor in. The neighborhood has a strong community feel with many parents, strollers, and family activities — it genuinely feels built for kids.

The neighborhood is highly walkable with excellent subway access, making it accessible to families across the borough and beyond who choose this school through the charter lottery.