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GreatSchools Rating

P.S. 188 the Island School

Public | PK-8 | 368 students

Last modified
Community Rating

4 stars

Community Rating by Year
2013:
Based on 4 ratings
2012:
Based on 18 ratings
2011:
No new ratings
2010:
Based on 1 rating

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Parent involvement

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29 reviews of this school


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Posted January 21, 2013

P.S./M.S 188 is a great school. I'm impressed with the school's great leadership shown by their assistant principal and staff. They show much care for their students and their families. My child is doing very well in school and I know it s because of the teacher s involvement in his education. I feel confident about my child s education because I can easily approach the teachers with any concerns I have. I am very happy with the expansion of the school because my child will be there until the 8th grade. Congrats to P.S./M.S. 188.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted January 21, 2013

The staff in this school is awesome. They really care about the students and their safety. The programs are also wonderful.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted January 21, 2013

I am so happy to be teaching at PS /MS 188 and I look forward to working with such great team... a great Principal and assistant Principal, great staff and of course great teachers who make the school a success! I attended PS/MS 188 when it first opened decades ago, and I am very happy to give back to my school and community. I even moved back to the Lower East Side and I am so excited to teach at a school that has so much to offer their students... PS/MS 188 prepared me so well and I am very proud my brothers also attended, friends, and they all had much success.... it set the foundation for our future now I can help my students to become leaders
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted January 21, 2013

Last week, we met with P.S/M.S. 188's assistant principal, Ms. Suany Ramos, to discuss some academic issues regarding our daughter. Ms. Ramos greeted us warmly and listened to our concerns. Despite her very busy schedule, she took her time to review our daughter's academic records in detail. She offered us valuable advice and came up with a plan of action while we were still in the office. We couldn't be more impressed with her dedication to the children. This is not the first time dealing with the school; our two other daughters have graduated from P.S./M.S. 188 and are doing very well thanks to the solid foundation they received at P.S./M.S. 188 from Pre-K to 8th grade. -
—Submitted by a parent


Posted September 5, 2012

i am a parent of this school i am happy to say that i had 3 of my children graduate one is in college going on his second year and my daughter graduating next year for high school and my other daughter just graduated for 188 and now she is going to high school and my baby girl is going to the 6th grade so is ps188 a good school i say yes it is the staff is wonderful i will miss ps188 in three more years my baby girl will be leaving
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 23, 2012

I have my boys attending this school at the present time. We couldn't be any happier and proud to have our kids attending such a wonderful school. The outstanding leadership of the principal and assistant principal, the dedicated and wonderful teachers, the kind and exceptional staff, especially the parent coordinator and everybody from the afterschool program, and the motivated students make of this the most wonderful learning experience for any kid. Love the uniforms and the new electronics policies.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 23, 2012

P.S. 188 is a wonderful school. The staff is full of caring and motivated individuals that are the best role models a student can have. The school has a safe environment. there are so many extra curricular activities such as flag football, tennis, violin classes and a chorus. I graduated from this school and still remember what a wonderful time I had there.


Posted July 22, 2012

PS 188 is a a great school for every child. 188 has a very dedicated, caring,and commited staff where a low performance child can get all that support and tutoring to succeed academically and high performance students are challenged as well. PS 188 is a happy, safe environment. Our students always have a smile even after a long day of hard work. Students arrive at 7:00 A.M. and leave at 7:30 P.M. This a big plus. I highly recomend parents to visit PS 188.
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted July 16, 2012

I think the school has changed for the better. It has come a long way since I remember it as a child... (you see I was once a student here myself). The current culture is one of support, communication, and unity. Nothing can ever be perfect, but it is establishing core fundations to build on and these roots can only become stronger with time.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 15, 2012

I have my twin boys attending this school at the present time. We couldn't be any happier and proud to have our kids attending such a wonderful school. The outstanding leadership of the principal and assistant principal, the dedicated and wonderful teachers, the kind and exceptional stuff, especially the parent coordinator and everybody from the afterschool program, and the motivated students make of this the most wonderful learning experience for any kid. This is a school of outstanding academic standards and the children are treated with care and respect. Keep up the amazing job PS 188!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 15, 2012

This is definitely one of the highest achieving public schools in NYC. The rankings as measured by standardized tests are consistently among the top, and the quality of education the children gets is just excellent. I know many parents who move to this neighborhood because of this school.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 15, 2012

I loved this school ! the teachers are very dedicated to push the students to do the best that they can ! My child was very happy to attend this middle school becoming of the welcoming environment and the hard work the teachers put into making sure the students succeed. I am very satisfied that my child attending this middle school.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 15, 2012

The teachers and staff in this school are very organized and determined to make the students succeed! I am very satisfied with the work the teachers put in to help my child get into high school. i feel very confident with my child going to high school now because i know he would be prepared because of this school.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 9, 2012

P188 The Island School. Proud Uncle. This administration has been very knowledgeable of their students various learning situations and have demonstrated day after day a tireless interest in their success. The teachers truly work well and put their best efforts in seeing their students succeed. I am confident this regenerated pattern of wellness and student success will continue.


Posted July 9, 2012

P188 is great when it counts... Role Models. Their staff really help the kids on a daily bases. I saw how Ms Almonte was reaching out, concern over my son missing homework in math. We stepped it up and my boy was able to graduate, because he passed his city-wide math exam. Thank You. I definitely recommend this school.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 6, 2012

My son just graduated from this school and I have nothing but great things to say about The Island School. Eventhough he was only there for a year, I am proud to say that the education and preparation that has been provided to him for High School has been exceptional. The teachers are kind, dedicated and have great expectations for the students. And last but not least Ms. Ramos is a great leader who practices an open door policy and was always available to update me on my son's progress or downfalls.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 6, 2012

I believe that 188 is one of the best schools in Manhattan, I had two children in the past attend the school from grades 6-8 and they did very well in the school. I would refer parents to look into this school, they have an excellent curriculum and the Principal was a great leader, and as for the teachers they are teachers that care about their students.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted July 6, 2012

As a teacher who has taught in other NYC schools, 188 The Island School 188 The Island School is by far the best place for both teachers and students. Everyone is treated with respect and dignity, and students are encouraged to become scholars in all disciplines. While other schools focus on test scores and bureaucratic secrecy, 188 is an oasis that thrives by promoting open communication between staff and students.188 is the best!
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted July 4, 2012

Wow, I am totally shocked to see the negative reviews of my school. The Island School received an A last year on the NYC Dept. of Education's school report card. We offer an unparalleled talent development program including computer programming, filmmaking, drumming, drama, and animation. Academically, our students consistently achieve at or above their peers. Our teachers are committed to connecting with students and meeting their academic and emotional needs every step of the way. With a state of the art science lab, gorgeous library, Internet Cafe, you would be hard pressed to find a school better suited for student success. Please disregard the ratings-- they do not reflect what you'll find in this school. Instead, take a look at our website, www.island188.org, and come by for a visit!
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted June 13, 2012

My child got placed into this school due to zoning. During my visit I saw poor teacher / student interaction on more than one occasion. The students were distrustful and there was a complete lack of authority and leadership from the teachers. Also, the bathrooms were filthy, worse than an outhouse. I am concerned for my child and I am desperately trying to place him somewhere else.
—Submitted by a parent


Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.

About these ratings

The Community Rating is the school’s average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.

The test results by subgroup show how the designated group of students is performing in comparison to the general population.
English Language Arts

The state average for English Language Arts was 56% in 2012.

32 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
34%

2011

 
 
41%
Math

The state average for Math was 61% in 2012.

36 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
53%

2011

 
 
41%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 New York used the New York State Assessments to test students in grades 3 through 8 in English language arts and math, and in grades 4 and 8 in science. The results for English language arts and math are displayed on GreatSchools profiles and the science results will be added when they are released in the Fall of 2013. The tests are standards-based, which means they measure how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of New York. The goal is for 90% of students to meet or exceed grade-level standards on the tests.

See New York's state standards

Source: New York State Education Department

English Language Arts

The state average for English Language Arts was 59% in 2012.

27 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
37%

2011

 
 
57%
Math

The state average for Math was 69% in 2012.

26 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
65%

2011

 
 
70%
Science

The state average for Science was 88% in 2011.

26 students were tested at this school in 2011.

2011

 
 
84%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 New York used the New York State Assessments to test students in grades 3 through 8 in English language arts and math, and in grades 4 and 8 in science. The results for English language arts and math are displayed on GreatSchools profiles and the science results will be added when they are released in the Fall of 2013. The tests are standards-based, which means they measure how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of New York. The goal is for 90% of students to meet or exceed grade-level standards on the tests.

See New York's state standards

Source: New York State Education Department

English Language Arts

The state average for English Language Arts was 58% in 2012.

32 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
25%

2011

 
 
41%
Math

The state average for Math was 67% in 2012.

35 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
51%

2011

 
 
52%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 New York used the New York State Assessments to test students in grades 3 through 8 in English language arts and math, and in grades 4 and 8 in science. The results for English language arts and math are displayed on GreatSchools profiles and the science results will be added when they are released in the Fall of 2013. The tests are standards-based, which means they measure how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of New York. The goal is for 90% of students to meet or exceed grade-level standards on the tests.

See New York's state standards

Source: New York State Education Department

English Language Arts

The state average for English Language Arts was 56% in 2012.

55 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
22%

2011

 
 
29%
Math

The state average for Math was 65% in 2012.

59 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
41%

2011

 
 
55%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 New York used the New York State Assessments to test students in grades 3 through 8 in English language arts and math, and in grades 4 and 8 in science. The results for English language arts and math are displayed on GreatSchools profiles and the science results will be added when they are released in the Fall of 2013. The tests are standards-based, which means they measure how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of New York. The goal is for 90% of students to meet or exceed grade-level standards on the tests.

See New York's state standards

Source: New York State Education Department

English Language Arts

The state average for English Language Arts was 52% in 2012.

49 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
33%

2011

 
 
13%
Math

The state average for Math was 65% in 2012.

54 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
48%

2011

 
 
40%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 New York used the New York State Assessments to test students in grades 3 through 8 in English language arts and math, and in grades 4 and 8 in science. The results for English language arts and math are displayed on GreatSchools profiles and the science results will be added when they are released in the Fall of 2013. The tests are standards-based, which means they measure how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of New York. The goal is for 90% of students to meet or exceed grade-level standards on the tests.

See New York's state standards

Source: New York State Education Department

English Language Arts

The state average for English Language Arts was 50% in 2012.

49 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
27%

2011

 
 
22%
Math

The state average for Math was 61% in 2012.

53 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
74%

2011

 
 
26%
Science

The state average for Science was 69% in 2011.

47 students were tested at this school in 2011.

2011

 
 
83%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 New York used the New York State Assessments to test students in grades 3 through 8 in English language arts and math, and in grades 4 and 8 in science. The results for English language arts and math are displayed on GreatSchools profiles and the science results will be added when they are released in the Fall of 2013. The tests are standards-based, which means they measure how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of New York. The goal is for 90% of students to meet or exceed grade-level standards on the tests.

See New York's state standards

Source: New York State Education Department

In 2009-2010, this school was given a grade of "C" for the elementary and middle school level.

About the tests


Progress Report Grades measure the school's contribution to student learning in three areas: School Environment, Student Performance and Student Progress. Schools can receive additional credit for achieving exemplary performance progress among high-needs students. Progress Report Grades range from A to F.

See New York's state standards

Source: New York City Department of Education

Breaking down the GreatSchools Rating

GreatSchools Ratings are based on the most recent standardized test results for schools. Use the breakdown ratings below to compare types of students at this school. Learn more »


Student ethnicity

Ethnicity This school State average
Hispanic 66% 21%
Black 32% 19%
Asian/Pacific Islander 2% 8%
American Indian/Alaska Native N/A 0%
White 0% 51%
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

Student subgroups

  This school District averageState average
Students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch program 0%N/A44%
Limited English proficient 16%N/A7%
Source: NYSED, 2007-2008

Student-teacher ratio

  This school District averageState average
Students per FTE teacher 12N/A13
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

Teacher experience

  This school District averageState average
Fewer than 3 years experience 20%N/A10%
Source: NYSED, 2007-2008

Teacher education levels

  This school District averageState average
Master's degree and above 22%N/A33%
Source: NYSED, 2007-2008

Teacher credentials

  This school District averageState average
Teachers with no valid teaching certificate 17%N/A5%
Source: NYSED, 2007-2008
Notice an inaccuracy? Let us know!

442 E Houston St
New York, NY 10002
Website: Click here
Phone: (212) 677-5710

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