Summary:
Zip code 36854 (Valley, AL) is served by 6 schools—3 elementary, 1 middle, and 2 high schools—spanning Pre-K through 12th grade and enrolling roughly 3,389 students across the Chambers County and Lee County districts.
Families in this area face a clear divide in school quality. The Beulah Elementary School is the standout performer, ranking in the 59th percentile statewide and showing remarkable growth—jumping 180 positions in two years. Its 3rd grade English proficiency (80%) and math proficiency (65%) are the highest in the zip code, far exceeding state averages. In contrast, Valley High School struggles significantly, with 11th grade math proficiency at just 14.9% (roughly half the state average) and English at 19.9%. Beulah High School offers a middle ground, ranking in the 52nd percentile with a strong 92.4% graduation rate and a notable 7th grade English spike (64.8%), though its 8th grade scores drop sharply. The middle school years are a universal weak point: W F Burns Middle School posts just 8.5% 7th grade math proficiency, and both middle schools fall below 13% in 8th grade math—less than half the state average.
Science is a surprising bright spot, with W F Burns Middle School (55.9% 8th grade science) and Beulah High School (40.8% 11th grade science) both exceeding state averages. However, Bob HardingShawmut Elementary shows early warning signs—only 22.8% 3rd grade math proficiency despite having the lowest poverty rate (43.1% free/reduced lunch). Spending doesn't predict success: Beulah High School spends the most per student ($12,948) yet ranks mid-pack, while Beulah Elementary spends far less ($8,119) and achieves the best results. Overall, the Lee County schools outperform their Chambers County counterparts by roughly 30 percentile points, making district choice a critical factor for families.
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