Hazeltine Avenue Elementary

Hazeltine Avenue Elementary is a public K-5 school serving 621 students in Van Nuys, part of the Los Angeles Unified district, where it has shown steady academic improvement over the past decade despite serving a community with significant economic need.

While the school's overall test scores are below district and state averages, it has particular strengths in serving its specific student population, especially English Language Learners, where it ranks in the 77th percentile statewide, outperforming many nearby schools like Kittridge Street Elementary and Van Nuys Elementary. The school has also made remarkable progress in improving student attendance, cutting chronic absenteeism nearly in half since the pandemic. However, a notable drop in math scores between 3rd and 5th grade points to an area for continued focus.

Compared to other local schools, Hazeltine provides relatively stable performance and demonstrates efficient use of its resources, achieving better results per dollar spent than several higher-spending neighbors such as Columbus Avenue Elementary. Its trajectory of gradual improvement contrasts with the more volatile performance patterns seen at some area schools, though it is outperformed by the nearby charter school Lashon Academy.