Top-Rated Elementary Schools in New York City

July 2, 2024

Discover top-rated elementary schools in New York City! Get insights on academic performance, after-school programs, and more.

Overview of Elementary Schools in New York City

New York City boasts a diverse range of elementary schools, offering various educational options to meet the needs of its students. The elementary school landscape in NYC can be categorized into three main types: public elementary schools, charter schools, and magnet schools.

Public Elementary Schools in NYC

Public elementary schools in New York City are typically identified by a "PS" number, which stands for "Public School" [1]. For instance, "PS 46" refers to "Public School 46." It's important to note that some PS numbers can be ambiguous and used by more than one school in the city.

The list of public elementary schools in NYC is organized according to the New York City Department of Education (DOE) regions. This ensures that students have access to quality education within their respective areas. Additionally, the list of public elementary schools may include some charter schools interspersed throughout, with the possibility of additional charter schools listed separately at the end.

Charter Schools in NYC

Charter schools are another option for elementary school education in New York City. These schools operate independently and are granted charters by the state. They often have their own unique curriculum and educational approach. Charter schools are publicly funded but have more flexibility in terms of governance and management.

Charter schools provide an alternative to traditional public schools and aim to offer innovative and specialized educational programs. They may focus on specific subjects, teaching methods, or student populations. Charter schools in NYC aim to provide families with additional choices for their children's education.

Magnet Schools in NYC

New York City also features magnet schools as part of its elementary school landscape. Magnet schools are part of a nationally recognized network of schools funded through the United States Department of Education. These schools are designed to offer unique learning experiences that empower learners and provide equitable school choice to families.

Magnet schools in NYC follow a whole-school, theme-based approach that allows students to explore specific areas of interest and develop specialized skills. They offer a diverse range of educational programs, including science, technology, arts, and more. Magnet schools aim to create an engaging and enriching learning environment that stimulates students' curiosity and fosters their talents.

By providing different types of elementary schools, New York City ensures that families have a wide range of educational options to choose from. Whether it's public schools, charter schools, or magnet schools, each offers unique features and approaches to support the academic growth and development of students in the city.

Academic Performance of Elementary Schools in NYC

Assessing the academic performance of elementary schools in New York City provides insights into the educational landscape and the proficiency levels of students in key subjects like reading and math.

Proficiency in Reading and Math

Based on state test scores from the previous academic year, approximately half of New York City's third through eighth graders demonstrated proficiency in reading and math. Specifically, 51.7% of students were considered on grade level for reading, while 49.9% achieved the same level of proficiency in math.

Disparities in Student Performance

Disparities in student performance were evident when comparing different grades. For instance, only 42.3% of eighth graders were proficient in math, whereas 55% of third graders achieved the same level. In terms of reading proficiency, 59.9% of eighth graders were on grade level, while approximately 48% of third graders achieved the same level.

Furthermore, there were notable differences in achievement across racial and ethnic groups. Asian American and white students tended to outperform their Black and Latino peers in both math and reading. For instance, approximately 77.6% of Asian American students were proficient in math, compared to only 34.3% of Black students. In reading, 72.3% of Asian American students were on grade level, while only 40.3% of Black students achieved the same level of proficiency.

Moreover, the data revealed disparities among students with disabilities and those learning English as a new language. Only 21.7% of students with disabilities demonstrated proficiency in reading, and 24.4% achieved proficiency in math. Similarly, students learning English as a new language had 11.1% on grade level in reading and 21.5% in math.

Improvement in Test Scores

Despite the challenges faced during the pandemic, there was a notable improvement in student performance compared to the previous academic year. Roughly 49% of students passed reading tests, and approximately 38% achieved proficiency in math. These results indicate progress in the city's recovery from the impact of the pandemic on education.

By examining the proficiency levels in reading and math, as well as the disparities in student performance, educators and policymakers can identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to ensure all students receive a high-quality education.

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) Results

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) provides valuable insights into the academic performance of students across the United States. Let's take a closer look at the NAEP results for elementary schools in New York City, specifically in the areas of reading and math proficiency.

Reading Proficiency in NYC

According to the most recent data from the NAEP, 36% of fourth-grade students in New York City scored at or above the Proficient level in reading in 2019. This percentage was slightly higher than the national average of 35% of students scoring at or above Proficient.

The NAEP Proficient level signifies solid academic performance and demonstrates a strong understanding of the subject matter. While New York City's reading proficiency rate is slightly above the national average, there is still room for improvement to ensure that all students are equipped with strong reading skills.

Math Proficiency in NYC

In terms of math proficiency, the NAEP results for New York City are more encouraging. In 2019, 49% of fourth-grade students in the city scored at or above the Proficient level in math. This percentage surpassed the national average of 41% of students scoring at or above Proficient.

The higher math proficiency rate in New York City reflects the efforts made by educators and students to excel in this subject. However, it's important to continue supporting and implementing effective math instruction to ensure that all students have a strong foundation in mathematics.

The NAEP results provide valuable insights into the academic achievements of elementary school students in New York City. While the city's reading proficiency rate is slightly higher than the national average, there is still work to be done to improve overall reading skills. On the other hand, the math proficiency rate in New York City exceeds the national average, highlighting the success in this subject area. By leveraging these results, educators and policymakers can make informed decisions to further enhance the educational experiences and outcomes for elementary school students in the city.

After-School Programs in Elementary Schools

After a full day of learning, many elementary school students in New York City have the opportunity to participate in after-school programs that provide a safe and enriching environment. These programs offer a range of activities and learning opportunities that go beyond the traditional curriculum. In this section, we will explore the availability of free after-school programs in NYC and the extracurricular activities offered in elementary schools.

Free After-School Programs in NYC

The New York City Department of Education recognizes the importance of providing after-school opportunities for elementary school students. They offer free, high-quality after-school programs for grades K-5, catering to the needs of working families in the city. These programs are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children after school hours, while also offering enrichment activities and learning opportunities.

The after-school programs provided by the NYC Department of Education aim to enhance students' academic, social, and emotional development. They offer a variety of activities, including homework help, arts and crafts, sports, music, dance, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programs. These programs help students explore their interests, develop new skills, and build positive relationships with peers and caring adults.

Extracurricular Activities in Elementary Schools

In addition to the free after-school programs offered by the NYC Department of Education, individual elementary schools in New York City often provide their own extracurricular activities to further enrich students' educational experience. These activities vary from school to school and can include clubs, music programs, athletics, and more.

For example, St. Raymond Elementary School in New York City offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities, such as clubs, music, and athletics. These activities allow students to explore their interests, develop talents, and foster a sense of community within the school.

Extracurricular activities play a vital role in the holistic development of elementary school students. They provide opportunities for students to engage in teamwork, leadership, creativity, and problem-solving skills outside of the regular academic curriculum. By participating in these activities, students can cultivate their passions, build self-confidence, and develop important life skills.

Whether through free after-school programs provided by the NYC Department of Education or extracurricular activities offered by individual schools, elementary school students in New York City have access to a wide range of opportunities that contribute to their overall educational experience. These programs and activities help create a well-rounded learning environment that supports the growth and development of every child.

Class Size in Elementary Schools

The class size in elementary schools plays a significant role in shaping the learning experience of students. In New York City, the average class size and its distribution across the boroughs provide insights into the educational environment.

Average Class Size in NYC

During the 2022-2023 school year, the average class size in elementary schools in New York City was 21.5 students per class, as reported by the NYC Department of Education. This average provides a glimpse into the typical student-teacher ratio in elementary classrooms throughout the city.

Class Size by Borough

When examining class size by borough, it is important to consider the variations across different regions of New York City. According to the NYC Department of Education, the Bronx had the highest average class size among the five boroughs during the 2022-2023 school year, with an average of 22.9 students per class in elementary schools. The other boroughs followed with slightly smaller average class sizes:

Borough Average Class Size

Bronx: 22.9
Manhattan: 21.6
Brooklyn: 21.4
Queens: 21.0
Staten Island: 20.8

These figures shed light on the variations in class size across the different boroughs, highlighting the unique educational landscapes in each area.

Furthermore, it is important to note that approximately 44% of the elementary schools in New York City had an average class size of 24 or more students during the 2022-2023 school year. This statistic underscores the prevalence of larger class sizes in some schools, which can impact the individual attention and learning experience of students.

It is worth mentioning that, during the 2022-2023 school year, around 40% of the elementary schools in New York City reported having at least one class with 30 or more students [6]. This finding highlights the challenges faced by some schools in managing class sizes and providing optimal learning environments for their students.

Understanding the average class size and its distribution across the boroughs offers valuable insights into the educational landscape of elementary schools in New York City. These factors can influence the student-teacher ratio, individual attention, and overall learning experience for students in their formative years.

Private Schools in New York City

When it comes to K-12 education in New York City, families have the option to choose between public schools and private schools. Private schools offer alternative educational experiences and often provide a more specialized approach to learning. Let's explore the K-12 education options and magnet schools available in New York City.

K-12 Education Options

New York City is home to a wide range of private schools that cater to students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. These schools often have smaller class sizes and can offer a more personalized education experience compared to public schools. Private schools may have specific educational philosophies, such as Montessori or Waldorf, and may focus on specific areas of study, such as arts or sciences.

Private schools in New York City can vary greatly in terms of curriculum, teaching methods, and extracurricular offerings. Some private schools have a religious affiliation, while others are secular. Tuition fees for private schools can also vary significantly, and financial aid may be available for families who qualify.

Magnet Schools in NYC

In addition to private schools, New York City also boasts several magnet schools at the elementary level. Magnet schools are public schools that offer specialized curricula and instruction, often focusing on specific subjects or areas of study. These schools aim to attract a diverse student population by offering unique educational opportunities.

Magnet schools in New York City provide a range of specialized programs, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), performing arts, language immersion, and more. These schools aim to foster students' talents and interests, providing them with a focused education in their chosen field.

Attending a magnet school can provide students with enhanced learning opportunities and a chance to develop their skills and passions in a specific area. These schools often have a competitive admissions process, and students may be required to demonstrate aptitude or interest in the school's specialized program.

Whether families choose private schools or magnet schools in New York City, there are a variety of educational options available to meet the diverse needs and interests of students. It's important for families to research and visit different schools to determine the best fit for their child's educational journey.