Best Public Schools in Zip Code 35062

Schools in zip code 35062 (Dora, AL) serve 1,518 students across three public schools, including one elementary school and two high schools, split between the Jefferson County and Walker County districts.

For parents, the standout choice academically is Corner High School, which ranks in the 81st percentile statewide and has held a 4-star rating for three straight years—an impressive feat given its district ranks in the bottom third. Its proficiency rates (43.27% in English, 42.31% in Science) are well above state averages. Meanwhile, Bagley Elementary School provides a strong foundation, with 60% of 4th graders proficient in Math and 61.18% in Science—roughly double the district average. In contrast, Dora High School lags significantly in academics, with only 7.27% of 11th graders proficient in Math and 21.7% in English, both below state and district averages.

However, test scores tell only part of the story. Dora High excels at keeping students engaged: it boasts a 98.1% graduation rate and the lowest chronic absenteeism (9.4%) in the area, despite having the highest economic disadvantage (61.34% free/reduced lunch eligibility). Corner High graduates 97.7% of students but has a higher absenteeism rate (16.3%). Bagley Elementary also performs well on attendance (12.7%). Notably, spending doesn't predict outcomes—Corner High spends the most per student ($11,239) and performs best, but Dora High spends more than Bagley yet scores far lower. This suggests school culture and leadership matter more than raw funding. For parents, the choice is clear: Corner High offers top-tier academics, while Dora High prioritizes persistence and graduation success.