Montgomery Creek Elementary

Montgomery Creek Elementary is a small, rural K-8 school serving 68 students in the Mountain Union Elementary district, where academic performance has varied significantly over the years and currently falls below state averages.

The school's most pressing challenge is a very high rate of chronic student absenteeism, at 42.7%, which is more than double the state average and far higher than nearby Whitmore Elementary (1.4%). This attendance issue likely hinders learning, as seen in proficiency rates below state standards, especially in science and math. Despite this, the school invests heavily in its students, spending $24,775 per pupil—significantly more than Burney Elementary—and maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio of 11-to-1 for more individualized attention.

When compared to similar schools serving economically disadvantaged families, Montgomery Creek performs relatively better, ranking in the 59th percentile for that subgroup statewide. However, its overall academic results, combined with the high spending and severe absenteeism, present a complex picture. The school's history shows notable performance fluctuations, suggesting its current trajectory could change with a focused effort, primarily on improving daily attendance, which is the foundational step toward boosting student achievement.