Exploring the Best Public Elementary Schools in New York City
New York City’s public elementary school landscape is diverse, with institutions distinguished by academic performance, cultural programs, and community engagement. This overview highlights some of the most notable schools across the city’s five boroughs, providing essential facts for families seeking quality education options.
Manhattan
P.S. 6 The Lillie Devereux Blake School
Established in 1894, P.S. 6 is situated on the Upper East Side and is known for its strong academic performance and active parent involvement. Serving approximately 800 students from kindergarten through fifth grade, it maintains an average class size of 23 to 28 students, creating an environment conducive to focused learning. The school’s mascot, Pale Male, a Red-tailed Hawk, reflects its urban setting. Its website is www.ps6nyc.com.
P.S. 41 Greenwich Village School
Founded in 1867, P.S. 41 is situated in a historic district in Greenwich Village. It emphasizes academic excellence combined with rich cultural programming. With a student body of around 800, it serves K-5 students in a neighborhood known for its artistic and intellectual vibrancy. The school’s official site is www.ps41.org.
P.S. 158 Bayard Taylor School
Located on York Avenue, P.S. 158 is recognized for high academic standards and dedicated faculty. It educates preschool through fifth-grade students, with an enrollment of about 720 students. The mascot, the Owl, symbolizes wisdom and knowledge fitting its rigorous standards. Visit www.ps158.org for more information.
Brooklyn
P.S. 172 Beacon School of Excellence
P.S. 172, known as the Beacon School of Excellence, is located in Brooklyn. It consistently receives recognition for academic achievements and fostering student success. The school emphasizes comprehensive education with programs tailored to diverse learning styles. Their website is www.ps172.org.
P.S. 9 The Sarah Smith Garnet School
Situated in Prospect Heights, P.S. 9 honors Sarah Smith Garnet, a pioneer in education and civil rights. It offers a robust enrichment curriculum that includes art, music, and technology. Its ethos emphasizes community engagement and diversity. More details are available at www.ps9brooklyn.org.
Staten Island
P.S. 35 The Clove Valley School
P.S. 35 in Staten Island is noted for its academic excellence and student achievement. It provides a well-rounded curriculum and has a reputation for strong community involvement. To learn more, visit ps35pta.com/.
Manhattan
Shuang Wen School
Also known as P.S. 184, Shuang Wen is a dual-language elementary and middle school located in Lower Manhattan. It offers instruction in English and Mandarin, fostering bilingual proficiency. Its approach prepares students for a globalized environment. The school’s website is www.ps184.org.
Additional Notable Schools
New Explorations Into Science, Technology, and Math School (NEST)
NEST, situated in Manhattan, specializes in STEM education. It educates students from K-12 with an average student-teacher ratio of 18:1. Academic performance data shows 97% scoring proficient or above in math and 98% in reading. Its focus on innovation attracts families prioritizing science and technology studies. Website: www.nestmk12.net.
P.S. 77 Lower Lab School
P.S. 77 is renowned for its advanced curriculum and child-centered teaching. It caters to elementary students in Manhattan and is committed to educational innovation and academic achievement. More details are found at www.ps77.org.
The Anderson School (P.S. 334)
Located on the Upper West Side, The Anderson School is a gifted and talented program. It serves students from K-8 with a curriculum designed for advanced learners. Its challenging academic environment is distinguished within the city’s public system. The site is www.ps334.org.
P.S. 87 William Sherman School
P.S. 87 on the Upper West Side emphasizes strong academics with a focus on arts education. It enrolls students from K-5 and balances academic rigor with artistic pursuits. The website is www.ps87.info.
P.S. 11 William T. Harris School
Located in Greenwich Village, P.S. 11 prioritizes community engagement and inclusive teaching methods. It serves students in grades K-5 and promotes a supportive learning environment. Its URL is www.ps11m.org.
Each of these schools exemplifies how NYC’s public school system caters to a variety of educational philosophies, student needs, and community values. Their emphasis ranges from rigorous academics to cultural and artistic programs, providing families with numerous options rooted in quality education and civic engagement.
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
