All topics / Building Human Potential
Department of Education
The New York City Department of Education traces its roots to the Board of Education, created in 1842 and abolished in 2002 when the state legislature gave the mayor direct control of the school system. The DOE now administers the City School District of the City of New York, the largest public school district in the United States, teaching approximately 1.1 million students in more than 1,800 schools across the five boroughs.
What's working
- What percent of students in grades 3 to 8 meeting or exceeding standards – Math?: 56.9% — increasing, though partly reflecting a 2023 test redesign, not just achievement
- On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing utilizing yellow school bus service?: 5,492 students — increasing overall, though shelter numbers have since fallen as arrivals slowed
- On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing parents/guardians utilizing caregiver OMNY cards?: 7,772 students — increasing overall, though it fell back as shelter arrivals slowed
- and 16 more below
What's getting worse
- What is the total infant/Toddler student enrollment?: 6,378 student — increasing overall; a FY25 drop reflected losing a major childcare partner
- What percent of average daily attendance?: 89.8% — misses target by 2.2%
- What percent of students in grades 3 to 8 meeting or exceeding standards – English Language Arts?: 56.3% — misses target by 2.7%
- and 14 more below
Critical indicators
With a numeric target
What percent of average daily attendance?
89.8%Misses target by 2.2%
What percent of average daily attendance?
89.8%Misses target by 2.2%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 88.1% | 92.8% |
| FY23 | 89.4% | 90% |
| FY24 | 89.6% | 92% |
| FY25 | 89.8% | 92% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 92% |
89.8% in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (2.2% below the 92% target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students in grades 3 to 8 meeting or exceeding standards – English Language Arts?
56.3%Misses target by 2.7%
What percent of students in grades 3 to 8 meeting or exceeding standards – English Language Arts?
56.3%Misses target by 2.7%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 49% | 52.8% |
| FY23 | 51.7% | 49.4% |
| FY24 | 49.1% | 55% |
| FY25 | 56.3% | 59% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 57.3% |
56.3% in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (2.7% below the 59% target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students in grades 3 to 8 meeting or exceeding standards – Math?
56.9% — increasing, though partly reflecting a 2023 test redesign, not just achievementBeats target by 4.9%
What percent of students in grades 3 to 8 meeting or exceeding standards – Math?
56.9% — increasing, though partly reflecting a 2023 test redesign, not just achievementBeats target by 4.9%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 37.9% | 51.7% |
| FY23 | 49.9% | 47.6% |
| FY24 | 53.4% | 47% |
| FY25 | 56.9% | 52% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 58% |
Part of this rise reflects a change in what's being measured, not just student performance: New York State redesigned its grades 3-8 math and ELA tests in 2023 to align with new learning standards, and state officials said scores from 2022 and earlier are not directly comparable to 2023 and later. Independent reporting has also found the state has lowered the score needed to be rated 'proficient' in most years since 2023, so some of the continued increase through Fiscal 2025 may reflect an easier scoring bar rather than purely higher achievement, even as the city credits its NYC Reads and NYC Solves curriculum initiatives for the gains.
Researched July 16, 2026 — NYC Public Schools, Fiscal 2025 Mayor's Management Report, Chalkbeat New York, "NY state tests for grades 3-8 are changing again. Here's what to know.", Empire Center for Public Policy, "As Math and Reading Proficiency Went Up, 'Cut Scores' Went Down"
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of English Language Learners exit that status within 3 years?
54.1%Beats target by 10.4%
What percent of English Language Learners exit that status within 3 years?
54.1%Beats target by 10.4%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 37.9% | 51.9% |
| FY23 | 42.7% | 49.9% |
| FY24 | 55.3% | 38.9% |
| FY25 | 54.1% | 43.7% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 56.3% |
54.1% in FY25 — met the City's own target for this indicator (10.4% above the 43.7% target), and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students in cohort graduating from high school in 4 years?
81.2%Misses target by 4.5%
What percent of students in cohort graduating from high school in 4 years?
81.2%Misses target by 4.5%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 83.7% | 81.2% |
| FY23 | 83.7% | 82.7% |
| FY24 | 83.3% | 84.7% |
| FY25 | 81.2% | 85.7% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 84% |
81.2% in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (4.5% below the 85.7% target), and it has trended in the wrong direction over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students with disabilities in cohort graduating from high school in 4 years?
59.4%Misses target by 7.2%
What percent of students with disabilities in cohort graduating from high school in 4 years?
59.4%Misses target by 7.2%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 64.1% | 53.8% |
| FY23 | 65.6% | 58.8% |
| FY24 | 64.9% | 65.1% |
| FY25 | 59.4% | 66.6% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 65.6% |
59.4% in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (7.2% below the 66.6% target), and it has trended in the wrong direction over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students in cohort dropping out from high school in 4 years?
5.2%Misses target by 1.2%
What percent of students in cohort dropping out from high school in 4 years?
5.2%Misses target by 1.2%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 5.4% | 5.3% |
| FY23 | 5.4% | 4.3% |
| FY24 | 4.7% | 6.7% |
| FY25 | 5.2% | 4% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 4% |
5.2% in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (1.2% above the 4% target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students with disabilities in cohort dropping out from high school in 4 years?
6.7%Beats target by 0.1%
What percent of students with disabilities in cohort dropping out from high school in 4 years?
6.7%Beats target by 0.1%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 7.7% | 8% |
| FY23 | 7.8% | 6.5% |
| FY24 | 7.4% | 6.5% |
| FY25 | 6.7% | 6.8% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 7.2% |
6.7% in FY25 — met the City's own target for this indicator (0.1% below the 6.8% target), and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of high school cohort who graduate ready for college and careers?
54.2%Misses target by 4.5%
What percent of high school cohort who graduate ready for college and careers?
54.2%Misses target by 4.5%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | 58.8% |
| FY23 | Not available | 58.7% |
| FY24 | 51.7% | 58.7% |
| FY25 | 54.2% | 58.7% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 52.7% |
54.2% in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (4.5% below the 58.7% target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 1 year of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of high school cohort taking at least 1 AP exam in 4 years of high school?
44.9%Beats target by 3.2%
What percent of high school cohort taking at least 1 AP exam in 4 years of high school?
44.9%Beats target by 3.2%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 40.7% | 39.9% |
| FY23 | 44% | 40.7% |
| FY24 | 44.9% | 41.7% |
| FY25 | Not available | 41.7% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 45.9% |
44.9% in FY24 — met the City's own target for this indicator (3.2% above the 41.7% target), and it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of families reporting that school staff regularly communicate with them about helping their children learn?
92%Misses target by 3%
What percent of families reporting that school staff regularly communicate with them about helping their children learn?
92%Misses target by 3%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 91% | Not available |
| FY23 | 90% | Not available |
| FY24 | 91% | Not available |
| FY25 | 92% | 95% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 95% |
92% in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (3% below the 95% target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What is the total infant/Toddler student enrollment?
6,378 student — increasing overall; a FY25 drop reflected losing a major childcare partnerMisses target by 4,505 student
What is the total infant/Toddler student enrollment?
6,378 student — increasing overall; a FY25 drop reflected losing a major childcare partnerMisses target by 4,505 student
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 6,346 student | Not available |
| FY24 | 10,441 student | Not available |
| FY25 | 6,378 student | 10,883 student |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 6,394 student |
DOE's own Fiscal 2025 report attributes the 39% drop in Infant/Toddler program enrollment (from 10,441 to 6,378) to the loss of a major Family Child Care Network partner that had provided many of these childcare seats. DOE notes that enrollment losses show up in its data before the matching reduction in program capacity, which is reevaluated on an ongoing basis based on provider partnerships.
Researched July 16, 2026 — NYC Public Schools, Fiscal 2025 Mayor's Management Report
Why this is tracked
Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Pre-K for All in 2014, guaranteeing free full-day pre-kindergarten to every four-year-old in the city, and grew enrollment to more than 60,000 children within two years. The City later extended the model to three-year-olds through 3-K for All, eventually serving more than 500,000 children across both programs by the end of de Blasio's term. NYC funded the expansion in part through a deal with the state legislature and, later, federal COVID-relief dollars, rather than through the tax on high earners de Blasio had originally proposed.
The Century Foundation - NYC Transformed Education with Pre-K For All, Chalkbeat - NYC promises preschool for 3-year-olds in every district
What is the total 3-K student enrollment?
44,729 studentMisses target by 2,427 student
What is the total 3-K student enrollment?
44,729 studentMisses target by 2,427 student
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 32,361 student | Not available |
| FY24 | 43,957 student | Not available |
| FY25 | 44,729 student | 47,156 student |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 45,454 student |
44,729 student in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (2,427 student below the 47,156 student target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Pre-K for All in 2014, guaranteeing free full-day pre-kindergarten to every four-year-old in the city, and grew enrollment to more than 60,000 children within two years. The City later extended the model to three-year-olds through 3-K for All, eventually serving more than 500,000 children across both programs by the end of de Blasio's term. NYC funded the expansion in part through a deal with the state legislature and, later, federal COVID-relief dollars, rather than through the tax on high earners de Blasio had originally proposed.
The Century Foundation - NYC Transformed Education with Pre-K For All, Chalkbeat - NYC promises preschool for 3-year-olds in every district
What is the total pre-K student enrollment?
56,950 studentMisses target by 4,088 student
What is the total pre-K student enrollment?
56,950 studentMisses target by 4,088 student
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 59,687 student | Not available |
| FY24 | 59,250 student | Not available |
| FY25 | 56,950 student | 61,038 student |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 59,250 student |
56,950 student in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (4,088 student below the 61,038 student target), and it has trended in the wrong direction over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Pre-K for All in 2014, guaranteeing free full-day pre-kindergarten to every four-year-old in the city, and grew enrollment to more than 60,000 children within two years. The City later extended the model to three-year-olds through 3-K for All, eventually serving more than 500,000 children across both programs by the end of de Blasio's term. NYC funded the expansion in part through a deal with the state legislature and, later, federal COVID-relief dollars, rather than through the tax on high earners de Blasio had originally proposed.
The Century Foundation - NYC Transformed Education with Pre-K For All, Chalkbeat - NYC promises preschool for 3-year-olds in every district
What is the total School Day and Year student enrollment?
89,458 studentMisses target by 7,435 student
What is the total School Day and Year student enrollment?
89,458 studentMisses target by 7,435 student
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 81,268 student | Not available |
| FY24 | 92,244 student | Not available |
| FY25 | 89,458 student | 96,893 student |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 92,244 student |
89,458 student in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (7,435 student below the 96,893 student target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Pre-K for All in 2014, guaranteeing free full-day pre-kindergarten to every four-year-old in the city, and grew enrollment to more than 60,000 children within two years. The City later extended the model to three-year-olds through 3-K for All, eventually serving more than 500,000 children across both programs by the end of de Blasio's term. NYC funded the expansion in part through a deal with the state legislature and, later, federal COVID-relief dollars, rather than through the tax on high earners de Blasio had originally proposed.
The Century Foundation - NYC Transformed Education with Pre-K For All, Chalkbeat - NYC promises preschool for 3-year-olds in every district
What is the total Extended Day and Year student enrollment?
14,090 studentMisses target by 3,808 student
What is the total Extended Day and Year student enrollment?
14,090 studentMisses target by 3,808 student
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 13,341 student | Not available |
| FY24 | 17,320 student | Not available |
| FY25 | 14,090 student | 17,898 student |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 14,765 student |
14,090 student in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (3,808 student below the 17,898 student target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Pre-K for All in 2014, guaranteeing free full-day pre-kindergarten to every four-year-old in the city, and grew enrollment to more than 60,000 children within two years. The City later extended the model to three-year-olds through 3-K for All, eventually serving more than 500,000 children across both programs by the end of de Blasio's term. NYC funded the expansion in part through a deal with the state legislature and, later, federal COVID-relief dollars, rather than through the tax on high earners de Blasio had originally proposed.
The Century Foundation - NYC Transformed Education with Pre-K For All, Chalkbeat - NYC promises preschool for 3-year-olds in every district
What is the total Head Start student enrollment?
3,900 studentMisses target by 386 student
What is the total Head Start student enrollment?
3,900 studentMisses target by 386 student
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 3,785 student | Not available |
| FY24 | 4,084 student | Not available |
| FY25 | 3,900 student | 4,286 student |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 4,089 student |
3,900 student in FY25 — missed the City's own target for this indicator (386 student below the 4,286 student target), though it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
Mayor Bill de Blasio launched Pre-K for All in 2014, guaranteeing free full-day pre-kindergarten to every four-year-old in the city, and grew enrollment to more than 60,000 children within two years. The City later extended the model to three-year-olds through 3-K for All, eventually serving more than 500,000 children across both programs by the end of de Blasio's term. NYC funded the expansion in part through a deal with the state legislature and, later, federal COVID-relief dollars, rather than through the tax on high earners de Blasio had originally proposed.
The Century Foundation - NYC Transformed Education with Pre-K For All, Chalkbeat - NYC promises preschool for 3-year-olds in every district
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps?
47%Beats target by 7%
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps?
47%Beats target by 7%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | 40% |
| FY23 | 42% | 40% |
| FY24 | 40% | 40% |
| FY25 | 47% | 40% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | 60% |
47% in FY25 — met the City's own target for this indicator (7% above the 40% target), and it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
Without a numeric target
On average, what is the lunches served daily?
549,064 lunches
On average, what is the lunches served daily?
549,064 lunches
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 542,294 lunches |
| FY23 | 533,953 lunches |
| FY24 | 557,596 lunches |
| FY25 | 549,064 lunches |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
549,064 lunches in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York State and City policy has long required certain support services, most notably pupil transportation, to be extended to eligible students at charter and non-public (private and religious) schools as well as traditional public schools -- reflecting the principle that some student services are about child safety and welfare regardless of where a child is enrolled. DOE administers busing under Chancellor's Regulation A-801 and separately provides food service to many charter and non-public schools that request it. That's why this service is defined to cover "all eligible" students across school types rather than public-school students alone.
NYC Public Schools - Transportation Overview, NYSED - Transportation for Students Enrolled in Nonpublic Schools
On average, what is the breakfasts served daily?
221,232 breakfasts
On average, what is the breakfasts served daily?
221,232 breakfasts
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 272,369 breakfasts |
| FY23 | 233,176 breakfasts |
| FY24 | 230,887 breakfasts |
| FY25 | 221,232 breakfasts |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
221,232 breakfasts in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended in the wrong direction over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York State and City policy has long required certain support services, most notably pupil transportation, to be extended to eligible students at charter and non-public (private and religious) schools as well as traditional public schools -- reflecting the principle that some student services are about child safety and welfare regardless of where a child is enrolled. DOE administers busing under Chancellor's Regulation A-801 and separately provides food service to many charter and non-public schools that request it. That's why this service is defined to cover "all eligible" students across school types rather than public-school students alone.
NYC Public Schools - Transportation Overview, NYSED - Transportation for Students Enrolled in Nonpublic Schools
How many school safety – Seven major felony crimes are there?
368 crimes
How many school safety – Seven major felony crimes are there?
368 crimes
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 346 crimes |
| FY23 | 402 crimes |
| FY24 | 404 crimes |
| FY25 | 368 crimes |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
368 crimes in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended in the wrong direction over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
In September 1998, under Mayor Giuliani, the Board of Education transferred its roughly 3,400 school safety agents to NYPD oversight, creating what became the NYPD School Safety Division. The move reflected the crime-focused politics of the era and has remained a source of ongoing debate, with critics arguing it over-polices students and supporters framing it as necessary for safety. Because safety agents are civilian NYPD employees stationed inside DOE buildings, the two agencies must continually coordinate policy, training, and incident response -- a structural link that traces directly back to that 1998 agreement.
NYPD School Safety Division - Wikipedia, Chalkbeat - A 1998 agreement that put NYPD in charge of school safety
How many school safety – Other criminal categories are there?
1,392 categories
How many school safety – Other criminal categories are there?
1,392 categories
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 1,758 categories |
| FY23 | 1,683 categories |
| FY24 | 1,494 categories |
| FY25 | 1,392 categories |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
1,392 categories in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
In September 1998, under Mayor Giuliani, the Board of Education transferred its roughly 3,400 school safety agents to NYPD oversight, creating what became the NYPD School Safety Division. The move reflected the crime-focused politics of the era and has remained a source of ongoing debate, with critics arguing it over-polices students and supporters framing it as necessary for safety. Because safety agents are civilian NYPD employees stationed inside DOE buildings, the two agencies must continually coordinate policy, training, and incident response -- a structural link that traces directly back to that 1998 agreement.
NYPD School Safety Division - Wikipedia, Chalkbeat - A 1998 agreement that put NYPD in charge of school safety
How many school safety – Other incidents are there?
5,111 incidents
How many school safety – Other incidents are there?
5,111 incidents
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 5,965 incidents |
| FY23 | 6,779 incidents |
| FY24 | 5,792 incidents |
| FY25 | 5,111 incidents |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
5,111 incidents in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
In September 1998, under Mayor Giuliani, the Board of Education transferred its roughly 3,400 school safety agents to NYPD oversight, creating what became the NYPD School Safety Division. The move reflected the crime-focused politics of the era and has remained a source of ongoing debate, with critics arguing it over-polices students and supporters framing it as necessary for safety. Because safety agents are civilian NYPD employees stationed inside DOE buildings, the two agencies must continually coordinate policy, training, and incident response -- a structural link that traces directly back to that 1998 agreement.
NYPD School Safety Division - Wikipedia, Chalkbeat - A 1998 agreement that put NYPD in charge of school safety
What percent of school building ratings – Fair to good condition?
32.8%
What percent of school building ratings – Fair to good condition?
32.8%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 29.7% |
| FY23 | 28.9% |
| FY24 | 29% |
| FY25 | 32.8% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
32.8% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York State and City policy has long required certain support services, most notably pupil transportation, to be extended to eligible students at charter and non-public (private and religious) schools as well as traditional public schools -- reflecting the principle that some student services are about child safety and welfare regardless of where a child is enrolled. DOE administers busing under Chancellor's Regulation A-801 and separately provides food service to many charter and non-public schools that request it. That's why this service is defined to cover "all eligible" students across school types rather than public-school students alone.
NYC Public Schools - Transportation Overview, NYSED - Transportation for Students Enrolled in Nonpublic Schools
What percent of school building ratings – Fair to poor condition?
0.3%
What percent of school building ratings – Fair to poor condition?
0.3%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 0.1% |
| FY23 | 0.2% |
| FY24 | 0.3% |
| FY25 | 0.3% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
This indicator has swung sharply within the lookback window — a simple up/down label would oversimplify it, so no trend badge is shown here. See the chart and table above for the full picture.
Why this is tracked
New York State and City policy has long required certain support services, most notably pupil transportation, to be extended to eligible students at charter and non-public (private and religious) schools as well as traditional public schools -- reflecting the principle that some student services are about child safety and welfare regardless of where a child is enrolled. DOE administers busing under Chancellor's Regulation A-801 and separately provides food service to many charter and non-public schools that request it. That's why this service is defined to cover "all eligible" students across school types rather than public-school students alone.
NYC Public Schools - Transportation Overview, NYSED - Transportation for Students Enrolled in Nonpublic Schools
What percent of students in cohort graduating from high school in 6 years?
87.5%
What percent of students in cohort graduating from high school in 6 years?
87.5%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 85.1% |
| FY23 | 86.7% |
| FY24 | 87.5% |
| FY25 | 87.5% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
87.5% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students with disabilities in cohort graduating from high school in 6 years?
72.7%
What percent of students with disabilities in cohort graduating from high school in 6 years?
72.7%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 66.7% |
| FY23 | 69% |
| FY24 | 71.6% |
| FY25 | 72.7% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
72.7% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students with disabilities in grades 3 to 8 progressing into a higher level – English Language Arts?
34.1%
What percent of students with disabilities in grades 3 to 8 progressing into a higher level – English Language Arts?
34.1%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available |
| FY23 | 25.6% |
| FY24 | 23.4% |
| FY25 | 34.1% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
34.1% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students with disabilities in grades 3 to 8 progressing into a higher level – Math?
24.6%
What percent of students with disabilities in grades 3 to 8 progressing into a higher level – Math?
24.6%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available |
| FY23 | 30.7% |
| FY24 | 24.4% |
| FY25 | 24.6% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
24.6% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended in the wrong direction over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of students fully scheduled to receive their IEP-recommended special education programs?
93%
What percent of students fully scheduled to receive their IEP-recommended special education programs?
93%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 88% |
| FY23 | 91% |
| FY24 | 92% |
| FY25 | 93% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
93% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of related services mandates with full encounter recorded?
94%
What percent of related services mandates with full encounter recorded?
94%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 95% |
| FY23 | 95% |
| FY24 | 95% |
| FY25 | 94% |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
94% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended in the wrong direction over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Kindergarten to Grade 3?
38%
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Kindergarten to Grade 3?
38%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 35% | Not available |
| FY24 | 31% | 20% |
| FY25 | 38% | Not available |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | Not available |
38% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Grades 4 to 5?
46%
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Grades 4 to 5?
46%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 46% | Not available |
| FY24 | 42% | 20% |
| FY25 | 46% | Not available |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | Not available |
46% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has stayed essentially flat over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Grades 6 to 8?
37%
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Grades 6 to 8?
37%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 34% | Not available |
| FY24 | 33% | 20% |
| FY25 | 37% | Not available |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | Not available |
37% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Grades 9 to 12?
48%
What percent of classes subject to class size law at or below caps – Grades 9 to 12?
48%
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual | Target |
|---|---|---|
| FY22 | Not available | Not available |
| FY23 | 47% | Not available |
| FY24 | 45% | 20% |
| FY25 | 48% | Not available |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available | Not available |
48% in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 2 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York's system of free public education began with the 1805 charter of the Free School Society, a group founded with backing from DeWitt Clinton to educate poor children not served by religious schools. New York State's first compulsory school-attendance law followed in 1874, though it was only unevenly enforced for decades afterward. Today's DOE, the largest school system in the country, continues that basic premise established over two centuries ago: that educating the city's children is a shared civic obligation, not just a private family matter.
Untapped New York - New York Launches the Public School System (1805), Encyclopedia.com - New York Free School Society, 1805
On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing utilizing yellow school bus service?
5,492 students — increasing overall, though shelter numbers have since fallen as arrivals slowed
On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing utilizing yellow school bus service?
5,492 students — increasing overall, though shelter numbers have since fallen as arrivals slowed
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 2,798 students |
| FY23 | 3,869 students |
| FY24 | 5,561 students |
| FY25 | 5,492 students |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
The number of students in temporary housing using yellow school buses tracks the size of the citywide shelter population, which grew rapidly starting in spring 2022 amid a surge of migrant and asylum-seeking families arriving in New York City and entering shelters — a surge DOE says it supported through its Project Open Arms school-enrollment effort. Shelter numbers later declined sharply as arrivals slowed to a trickle and the city closed dozens of emergency shelters starting in mid-2024, roughly halving the shelter population by late 2025.
Researched July 16, 2026 — NYC Public Schools, Fiscal 2024 Mayor's Management Report, NYC Comptroller, Asylum Seeker Census
Why this is tracked
New York State and City policy has long required certain support services, most notably pupil transportation, to be extended to eligible students at charter and non-public (private and religious) schools as well as traditional public schools -- reflecting the principle that some student services are about child safety and welfare regardless of where a child is enrolled. DOE administers busing under Chancellor's Regulation A-801 and separately provides food service to many charter and non-public schools that request it. That's why this service is defined to cover "all eligible" students across school types rather than public-school students alone.
NYC Public Schools - Transportation Overview, NYSED - Transportation for Students Enrolled in Nonpublic Schools
On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing issued OMNY cards?
6,550 students
On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing issued OMNY cards?
6,550 students
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 5,560 students |
| FY23 | 5,374 students |
| FY24 | 6,109 students |
| FY25 | 6,550 students |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
6,550 students in FY25 — has no numeric target set by the City, and it has trended toward improvement over the past 3 years of reported data.
Why this is tracked
New York State and City policy has long required certain support services, most notably pupil transportation, to be extended to eligible students at charter and non-public (private and religious) schools as well as traditional public schools -- reflecting the principle that some student services are about child safety and welfare regardless of where a child is enrolled. DOE administers busing under Chancellor's Regulation A-801 and separately provides food service to many charter and non-public schools that request it. That's why this service is defined to cover "all eligible" students across school types rather than public-school students alone.
NYC Public Schools - Transportation Overview, NYSED - Transportation for Students Enrolled in Nonpublic Schools
On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing parents/guardians utilizing caregiver OMNY cards?
7,772 students — increasing overall, though it fell back as shelter arrivals slowed
On average, what is the number of Students in Temporary Housing parents/guardians utilizing caregiver OMNY cards?
7,772 students — increasing overall, though it fell back as shelter arrivals slowed
* Year to date — this fiscal year isn't complete, so it's not compared against prior years in the target/trend status above.
View as table
| Fiscal year | Actual |
|---|---|
| FY22 | 4,673 students |
| FY23 | 6,647 students |
| FY24 | 12,103 students |
| FY25 | 7,772 students |
| FY26 (YTD) | Not available |
This indicator, which counts parents and guardians of students in temporary housing using caregiver transit cards, rose along with New York City's shelter population during the 2022-2024 surge in migrant and asylum-seeking family arrivals. It fell back in Fiscal 2025 as arrivals slowed dramatically and the city closed dozens of emergency shelters, roughly halving the shelter census by late 2025 compared with its January 2024 peak.
Researched July 16, 2026 — NYC Public Schools, Fiscal 2024 Mayor's Management Report, NYC Comptroller, Asylum Seeker Census, NYC Mayor's Office, "Mayor Adams Announces new Round of Migrant Shelter Closures"
Why this is tracked
New York State and City policy has long required certain support services, most notably pupil transportation, to be extended to eligible students at charter and non-public (private and religious) schools as well as traditional public schools -- reflecting the principle that some student services are about child safety and welfare regardless of where a child is enrolled. DOE administers busing under Chancellor's Regulation A-801 and separately provides food service to many charter and non-public schools that request it. That's why this service is defined to cover "all eligible" students across school types rather than public-school students alone.
NYC Public Schools - Transportation Overview, NYSED - Transportation for Students Enrolled in Nonpublic Schools