NYC Public Schools (NYCPS) reported broadly positive results from its 20th annual School Survey, with more than 870,000 students, families and educators participating — a 2% increase in responses since last year, the agency said on Tuesday.

The self-administered survey found “strong support” for Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels among educators and families. Approximately 77% of teachers said they have “strong confidence” in Samuels’ leadership, while 72%  said they “deeply trust him.” 

Among family respondents, 72% expressed overall support for the chancellor, including his approach to school resources, oversight, curriculum and student achievement, representing a 2-percentage-point increase over the previous administration, according to school officials.

“As chancellor, I am deeply focused on delivering safe and welcoming schools for every student,” Samuels said. “The school survey is one of our most important tools because it gives families, students and staff a direct voice in shaping our schools.”

The study claims that 96% of families were satisfied with the education their children received during the school year. Ninety-seven percent said they “felt welcomed” at their child’s school, while 81% were satisfied with the children’s meal options. 

Reading scores from state tests plummeted in 2026

Despite the numerous positive responses, NYCPS has its challenges. The survey was released on Aug. 11, just days after the school system announced state-wide English Language Arts (ELA) test results showing the share of students meeting the state’s top two performance levels plunged by 6 percentage points this year.

Only about 50% of students scored at the state’s top Levels 3 or 4 in ELA this year, down from just over 56% in 2025. The decline followed a 7.2 percentage-point increase between 2024 and 2025, marking an unusually large swing in performance from year to year.

The unprecedented fluctuations prompted NYCPS to review the scoring process to determine how accurately the assessments reflect student learning. 

“These results raise important questions and deserve careful, rigorous analysis so we can ensure we’re measuring what students are learning,” Samuels said on Friday.

Statewide math test scores ticked up slightly by 0.1% this year.

Teachers respond to the survey

Meanwhile, educators who responded to the survey noted several improvements this year. English as a New Language teachers reported having the tools and resources needed to create multiple opportunities for students to engage in diverse texts (93% – up 3 percentage points from last year).

Ninety-five percent of middle school teachers felt that students and families received useful guidance on the high school application process, up 2 percentage points from last year, the survey showed.

Camillo Turriciano, principal of the James B. Colgate School in Woodside, said the survey results are an opportunity to listen to families.

 “At our school, we view survey data as more than just feedback. It is an opportunity to listen to our families and staff, and ensure every voice is heard,” the principal said. “We remain committed to using this input to strengthen our school community, celebrate what is working well, and continuously improve so that every member of our community has a positive, supportive, and enriching experience.”

Are high-school students career-ready?

According to NYCPS, a particular bright spot in the survey was FutureReadyNYC, a program that teaches kids job skills and prepares them for in-demand jobs.

Nearly 80% of students in the program at participating schools reported that the adults in their schools teach them about career options, versus 75% of students at non-participating high schools.  

NYCPS officials said school principals will use the survey data results to identify areas where additional resources or investment may be needed. The findings, officials said, will also help inform broader NYCPS priorities related to school safety, academic rigor and integration.