P.S. 096 Richard Rodgers

P.S. 096 Richard Rodgers is an exceptional elementary school in the Bronx, consistently outperforming its district and the state in academic assessments. The school ranks in the top 13% of New York elementary schools, with its ranking trending upwards. Students demonstrate strong academic proficiency, with ELA and Math scores well above citywide medians. Parents express overwhelmingly positive sentiment, praising the dedicated teachers and supportive administration who prioritize both academic excellence and student well-being. The school is known for its robust music program, including a choir and band, which is a distinctive offering for an elementary school. It also provides a variety of before, during, and after-school enrichment programs, such as tutoring, chess, dance, and drumming, through its 21st Century Leadership Program. The school fosters a positive environment, emphasizing core values like respect and kindness, and actively engages families through workshops and regular communication. While some older reviews mentioned overcrowding, a new addition in 2015 resolved this, uniting all students under one roof. One parent review noted concerns about perceived gender bias and heavy homework.