Summary:
Zip code 35203 in Birmingham, Alabama, is served by a single elementary school, Phillips Academy, a PK-8 institution that is the only educational option at this level for families in the area.
For parents considering Phillips Academy, the standout finding is its exceptional performance in the upper grades, particularly in 7th and 8th grade. In 7th grade math, 72% of students are proficient, compared to just 11% across the Birmingham City district and 24% statewide. English scores are even more impressive, with 96% of 7th graders proficient—more than 40 points above the state average. The school also excels in 8th grade science, where 78% of students meet proficiency standards, far exceeding the district's 29%. While early elementary math scores lag behind state averages (30% proficient in 3rd grade vs. 45% statewide), the school shows a remarkable "widening gap" pattern, meaning students improve dramatically as they progress through the grades. This suggests strong cumulative learning gains and effective middle school instruction.
Another key advantage is attendance: Phillips Academy has a chronic absenteeism rate of just 3.2%, four times better than the district average of 13.1%. With 56% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch, the school serves a predominantly low-income population yet still achieves a 3-star state ranking, a notable bright spot within a district rated in the bottom 15% of Alabama. The school's state percentile has fluctuated slightly—from the 76th percentile in 2023-2024 to the 65th percentile in 2025-2026—but it consistently outperforms district averages in nearly every subject and grade. For parents, this means a stable, high-achieving option with particularly strong middle school academics and a culture of consistent attendance.
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