Summary:
In zip code 72113 (Maumelle, AR), there are two elementary schools serving grades from Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade, offering families a clear choice between a top-tier charter school and a traditional public school with contrasting performance and resource profiles.
Maumelle Charter Elementary is the standout school in the area, consistently earning a 5-star rating and ranking in the 92nd percentile of Arkansas elementary schools. It serves grades K-3 with 614 students and achieves proficiency rates roughly 20-25 percentage points above the state average in English Language Arts (61.6%), Math (58.9%), and Science (64.7%). In contrast, Pine Forest Elementary School serves grades PK-5 with 371 students and holds a 2-star rating, ranking in the 41st percentile. Pine Forest's proficiency rates are below state averages in most subjects, though its 5th graders notably outperform the state in ELA (52.4%) and Reading (54.7%). A key paradox is that Pine Forest spends significantly more per student ($15,083) compared to Maumelle Charter ($9,274), yet achieves lower academic outcomes, suggesting Maumelle Charter operates with exceptional efficiency. Additionally, Pine Forest has a higher percentage of students eligible for free/reduced lunch (54.72%) versus Maumelle Charter (31.92%).
Interesting trends include Maumelle Charter's consistent excellence as the flagship school of the Academics Plus Public Charter Schools district, which itself ranks only 64th percentile with a 3-star rating. Meanwhile, Pine Forest's performance aligns more closely with its district, Pulaski County Special School District, which ranks 37th percentile with a 2-star rating. Pine Forest has shown gradual improvement, moving from the 31st percentile in 2023-2024 to the 41st percentile in 2025-2026, while Maumelle Charter has maintained top-tier status for three consecutive years. For parents, Maumelle Charter offers a high-performing, efficient option, while Pine Forest provides a broader grade range and a positive trajectory in upper grades.
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