P.S. 147 Isaac Remsen

P.S. 147 Isaac Remsen is a small elementary school in Bushwick, Brooklyn, serving students from Pre-K through 5th grade. The school stands out for its strong academic performance, with English Language Arts and Math proficiency rates well above the citywide median and near the top quartile. It serves a diverse student body, including a higher proportion of students with special needs and English language learners compared to city averages. The school is notable for being the first public elementary school in NYC to offer a Japanese Dual Language program, which has evolved into a World Language program providing exposure to all students. P.S. 147 also features a hydroponics lab where students engage in hands-on learning about sustainability and growing food. The school fosters a child-centered environment, emphasizing social-emotional learning through programs like Sanford Harmony and offering various arts and cultural partnerships, including Afro-Cuban music instruction. Parent feedback is exceptionally positive, with older school surveys indicating high satisfaction with the education and variety of activities offered (98% and 93% respectively). While some past reviews have raised concerns about leadership, more recent teacher surveys show strong confidence in the principal's effectiveness and a high recommendation rate for the school. The school is described as a welcoming community that values diversity and collaboration between parents and staff.