Poll Finds Public Schools On Perceived Decline

Most New York City residents do not believe the quality of public schools has improved over the past two decades, according to a new poll by NY1

Almost half of the city’s residents, 49 percent, say public schools have gotten worse over the past 20 years, while only 23 percent say that the public schools have gotten better. Another 16 percent say things haven’t really changed, while 12 percent are unsure.

Responses did not differ much across boroughs, income levels, races, and ages, though men were a little more optimistic than women – 28 percent of men surveyed said schools have gotten better, while only 19 percent of women agree. Residents living with children also had a slightly more positive outlook.

So far this year, Forest Hills residents have gotten mixed news about their schools. Last week, the Department of Education released progress reports for elementary and middle schools. 

School letter grades in Forest Hills ran the gamut from A's to C's. 

The poll was conducted in partnership with the Marist College Institute for Public Opinion.