Summary:
Zip code 36350, encompassing Midland City, Alabama, is home to just one public high school, Dale County High School, which serves grades 9 through 12 with an enrollment of 437 students.
For parents considering this area, Dale County High School offers a compelling mix of strengths and challenges. The most impressive statistic is its perfect 100% graduation rate for 2024-2025, which far exceeds the state average of 91.5%. This is particularly notable given that nearly 60% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch, a demographic often associated with lower graduation outcomes. The school also keeps students engaged, with a chronic absenteeism rate of just 8.9%—well below the state's 12.0% average. Academically, the school is on a clear upward trajectory. After a dip to the 47th percentile in 2024-2025, it surged to the 69th percentile statewide in 2025-2026, ranking 116th out of 380 schools. Science is a standout subject, with 46.23% of 11th graders proficient, beating the state average of 36.17%. English proficiency also improved to 33.65%, though it remains slightly below the state mark.
The primary concern is mathematics. Only 19.81% of students are proficient in math, which trails both the state average (27.21%) and the Dale County district average (39.18%). This gap suggests the school is a relative underperformer in math within its own district, despite the district ranking in the 82nd percentile statewide. With per-student spending of $8,490 and a student-teacher ratio of 18.4:1, the school operates with modest resources. However, its perfect graduation rate, low absenteeism, and rapid academic improvements indicate effective support systems and a positive school culture. If the school can apply its science success to math instruction, it has strong potential to climb even higher in the rankings.
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