The Bronx School of Young Leaders

Test scores here are below the District 10 average — 35% ELA versus 45% district-wide, and 41.2% math versus 43.5% district — but context matters: this school has climbed from 12% ELA in 2016 to the mid-30s, with math jumping from 10% to over 40% in that span. The 2025 scores show a slight dip from 2024, particularly in ELA (down from 37.9% to 35%), which could signal a one-year fluctuation or a trend worth watching. Grade 8 students outperform younger grades significantly, hitting 41% ELA and 46% math, suggesting the school's academic interventions may take time to pay off.

The attendance story is complicated: 91% daily attendance is essentially on par with the district average, but a staggering 65.1% of students are chronically absent — meaning they miss 10% or more of school days. This is a red flag for a middle school, where engagement often dips. On the positive side, survey data shows exceptional trust in leadership: 98% of teachers trust the principal, 95% trust their colleagues, and 90% of parents trust the principal. Teachers rate instruction quality at 92%. Discipline is minimal — only 3 suspensions last year — which aligns with a school trying to keep kids in class. The low family survey response rate (8%) means parent voice may be underrepresented.

This is a predominantly Hispanic school (72%) with significant Black enrollment (24%), mirroring the neighborhood's demographics. Nearly 92% of students qualify for economic need programs, and 28% have IEPs — both well above city averages. The diversity index sits at 41%, which is moderate. Families here are working-class to low-income, given the neighborhood's median household income of just $32,393 and 37% poverty rate. Homeownership is rare at 6.5%, suggesting most families rent.

University Heights and Morris Heights is a densely populated, transit-rich section of the Bronx with a strong family presence (94th percentile for family density) but significant safety concerns. The neighborhood scores just 6.13 out of 100 on safety, with high crime density and elevated rates of childhood asthma and lead exposure. However, transit access is excellent at the 70th percentile, making commutes manageable. Median home values of $590,000 reflect the broader NYC market rather than local incomes.

The school is accessible by multiple bus lines and near major Bronx thoroughfares; families walking from nearby blocks is common in this dense urban setting