Best Middle Schools in Zip Code 92570

This analysis examines two large middle schools serving grades 6-8 in the 92570 zip code of Perris, California, both with enrollments over 950 students and nearly identical, extremely high rates of student economic disadvantage.

When comparing the schools, Tomas Rivera Middle in the Val Verde Unified district consistently outperforms Pinacate Middle in the Perris Union High district across all state test subjects, with science proficiency at Tomas Rivera being double that of Pinacate. A critical difference is chronic absenteeism: Pinacate's rate of 36.6% is alarmingly high and nearly double the state average, while Tomas Rivera's rate, though still concerning, is significantly lower at 24.9%.

Both schools have very low academic performance compared to state averages and have maintained low statewide rankings for three consecutive years, indicating systemic challenges. Interestingly, Pinacate spends more per student but has worse outcomes, suggesting factors beyond funding, like attendance and school effectiveness, are at play. For parents, the data highlights Tomas Rivera as the stronger academic performer in the area, with a notably better attendance record being a key differentiator.