Best Public Schools in Zip Code 35474

The 35474 zip code area is home to 4 schools, including 2 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 1 high school. While the schools exhibit some strengths, such as the higher performance of Big Sandy Elementary, the data also reveals significant challenges, including high chronic absenteeism rates and economic disadvantages faced by the student population.

Big Sandy Elementary stands out as the highest-performing school in the area, ranking higher than Moundville Elementary on the statewide SchoolDigger rankings and maintaining higher proficiency rates in several subject areas. In contrast, Hale County High School, while maintaining a respectable 90% graduation rate, lags behind in core subject proficiency, suggesting a potential disconnect between the earlier grades and the high school experience.

The data also highlights the economic challenges faced by the schools in the 35474 zip code, with all schools reporting high percentages of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch, ranging from 55.13% to 62.36%. This economic disadvantage likely contributes to the performance gaps observed between the schools and the county/state averages, particularly in mathematics and science. Addressing these challenges, along with the high chronic absenteeism rates, will be crucial in supporting student success and ensuring equitable educational opportunities for all learners in the community.