Elementary Schools in Dothan City

The Dothan City school district in Alabama serves approximately 4,157 students across 10 elementary schools (ranging from Pre-K through 6th grade), and while the district as a whole ranks in the bottom quarter of the state, there is a dramatic split between a couple of standout schools and the rest.

If you are looking for top performance, Carver School of Mathematics Science and Technology is the clear winner—it ranks 32nd in the state (95th percentile, 5 stars) and posts remarkable scores, including 100% English proficiency for 3rd graders and 85% math proficiency, far above district and state averages. Highlands Elementary School is the second-best option, with a 4-star rating, strong English and science scores, and the lowest poverty rate in the district (38.7% free/reduced lunch). On the other end, Morris Slingluff Elementary School is the most concerning—it ranks 681st out of 686 schools, with math proficiency as low as 3.8% for 4th graders. Most other schools, including Selma Street Elementary School, Heard Elementary School, Girard Elementary School, Beverlye Intermediate School, and Faine Elementary School, fall into a lower tier with 0-2 star ratings and test scores well below state averages.

Key takeaways for parents: money doesn't guarantee results—the highest-spending schools (Girard at $11,590 and Morris Slingluff at $11,567) are among the lowest performers, while Carver spends less and excels. Chronic absenteeism is a red flag, especially at Faine (25.9%) and Hidden Lake (17.0%), though Hidden Lake Primary School only serves K-2 and has no test data yet. District-wide, math is the weakest subject (lagging the state by ~18 points), and performance tends to decline from 3rd to 5th grade. If you have a choice, Carver and Highlands are the clear standouts; otherwise, be prepared to supplement math instruction and monitor attendance closely.