Summary:
Zip code 36352, encompassing the Newton, Alabama area, is served by two elementary schools—Wicksburg Elementary School and Newton Elementary School—both covering grades PK-6, with a combined enrollment of nearly 930 students across two different counties.
Wicksburg Elementary School is the clear standout in this area, earning a 5-star rating for three consecutive years and ranking in the top 7% of all Alabama elementary schools (46th out of 686). Its chronic absenteeism rate is an extraordinary 1.4%, compared to 7.7% at Newton Elementary School and a 12% state average. Wicksburg also posts remarkably stable English proficiency scores between 80-90% across all grades, and its 3rd grade math proficiency hit 94.37% in 2025-2026—more than double the state average. The school serves a lower percentage of economically disadvantaged students (38.52% free/reduced lunch) compared to Newton (57.68%), and maintains a slightly better student-teacher ratio (16.7:1 vs. 18.3:1).
Newton Elementary School is a solid 4-star performer that ranks in the 76th-81st percentile statewide, but shows significant inconsistency. Its 6th grade math proficiency plummeted from 75% to 29.41% between years, while 5th grade math soared from 55% to 79.55%—suggesting high cohort variability. Both schools exceed state averages in 4th grade science, with Wicksburg at 72.94% and Newton at 62.07% versus the 50.23% state average. While Wicksburg demonstrates a consistent upward trajectory and near-perfect attendance, Newton's higher absenteeism and economic challenges likely contribute to its more variable results. For parents, Wicksburg offers elite, consistent performance, while Newton provides above-average education with occasional flashes of excellence, particularly in 5th grade.
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