P.S. 043

P.S./M.S. 43Q, known as "The School by the Sea," serves students from Pre-K through 8th grade in Far Rockaway, Queens. The school emphasizes preparing leaders for the future, with a mission focused on college and career readiness, social justice, equity, and access. It serves a student population with a very high Economic Need Index and a high percentage of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Academically, the school faces challenges, with ELA and Math proficiency rates well below citywide benchmarks. However, it offers an above-median rate of accelerated coursework. While parent surveys indicate overwhelmingly positive relationships with families, student surveys reveal significant concerns regarding school cleanliness, fair conflict resolution, and the prevalence of bullying and physical altercations. Some parents and students have expressed concerns about the learning environment and bullying. The school has been recognized for its efforts in rebuilding classrooms after Hurricane Sandy and for participating in initiatives to empower teachers.