Summary:
The 35907 zip code area is home to two strong-performing schools - Southside High School and Southside Elementary School, both of which serve the Etowah County district. Southside Elementary is a standout performer, consistently ranking among the top elementary schools in Alabama and significantly outpacing county and state averages on academic proficiency tests. Southside High School has also maintained a respectable performance, with a 3-4 star rating from SchoolDigger and graduation rates above 90%.
Academically, Southside High School's 11th grade proficiency rates range from 19.37% to 34.03% in math, science, and English, outperforming the Etowah County averages of 19.02% to 30.8% and the Alabama state averages of 23.71% to 32.38%. Southside Elementary School's 3rd-5th grade proficiency rates are even more impressive, ranging from 41.98% to 84.88% in math, science, and English, significantly outpacing the Etowah County and Alabama state averages.
Both schools have relatively high free/reduced lunch rates, at 41.56% and 42.76% respectively, indicating a higher proportion of economically disadvantaged students. However, the similar per-student spending levels between the high school and elementary school, coupled with the differing performance outcomes, suggest that factors beyond just funding, such as curriculum, teaching quality, and school leadership, play a significant role in driving student success.
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