Best Middle Schools in Zip Code 90008

This analysis examines two middle schools, Stella Middle Charter Academy (grades 5-8) and Audubon Middle (grades 6-8), located in the 90008 zip code of Los Angeles, both serving a similar high-need student population.

When comparing the schools, Stella Middle Charter Academy demonstrates stronger academic performance, with higher test scores in English, math, and science, and a significantly lower chronic absenteeism rate of 21.9% compared to 42.3% at Audubon Middle. Stella also holds a higher statewide ranking. Interestingly, Audubon operates with more than $15,000 extra in per-student funding and a much lower student-teacher ratio, highlighting a notable contrast between resource allocation and student outcomes in this area.

For parents, the key takeaway is that the two schools present different models. Stella, a charter school in the Stella Middle Charter Academy District, achieves better academic results and attendance with larger classes. Audubon, part of the large Los Angeles Unified district, has more resources per student but struggles with attendance and proficiency rates, particularly in 8th-grade math and science. Factors like school culture and student engagement appear to be critical differentiators for success in this community.