Summary:
This analysis examines three elementary schools serving grades K-8 in Pasadena's 91103 zip code, including one traditional Pasadena Unified school and two independent charter schools.
Aveson School of Leaders stands out as the top performer, with academic proficiency rates exceeding state averages in all subjects and a strong, consistent state ranking in the 73rd percentile. It also maintains excellent student attendance. In contrast, Alma Fuerte Public faces significant academic challenges, with proficiency rates well below state averages and a very low state ranking. Washington Elementary STEM Magnet falls in the middle academically but has the highest rate of chronic student absenteeism among the three schools.
Notably, school spending does not directly correlate with performance here. Washington Elementary spends significantly more per student than the two charter schools but achieves lower academic results. The two charter schools, Aveson School of Leaders and Alma Fuerte Public, demonstrate vastly different outcomes despite their similar governance structures, showing that charter status alone does not determine success. Parents should note that while Washington carries a STEM Magnet designation, its students' proficiency in math and science is currently below the state average.
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