P.S. 196 Grand Central Parkway

P.S. 196 Grand Central Parkway in Forest Hills, Queens, is widely recognized as a top-performing elementary school, consistently ranking among the highest in New York City and the state for academic achievement. Students demonstrate exceptional proficiency in both English Language Arts and Mathematics, with scores well above citywide averages, placing the school among the top performers. The school is known for its strong academic focus, with parents often describing a demanding environment that includes significant homework and tests, fostering a culture of high expectations from an early age. Official parent surveys reflect overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding the school environment and family relationships, indicating high satisfaction among the school community. However, some parents have expressed concerns about the academic pressure and, in some instances, issues related to bullying. The school offers a traditional curriculum complemented by arts programming, including music, dance, and art classes, alongside technology-supported instruction and various enrichment activities.