Best Public Schools in Zip Code 95354

This analysis covers seven public schools in the 95354 zip code of Modesto, California, serving about 3,300 students from kindergarten through 12th grade across three districts.

There are dramatic differences in school performance within this area. Enslen Elementary stands out as the clear top performer, ranking in the 81st percentile statewide with strong test scores and the lowest chronic absenteeism rate. In stark contrast, Orville Wright Elementary faces significant challenges, ranking in the bottom 2nd percentile. Both are part of the Modesto City Elementary district, highlighting major disparities even between neighboring schools. Stanislaus Alternative Charter high school shows severe issues with a 22.6% graduation rate and extreme absenteeism.

For parents, the key takeaway is that school quality varies widely. La Loma Junior High shows recent improvement, while other elementary schools like El Vista Elementary and Wilson Elementary perform below state averages. Capistrano Elementary, in the Empire Union Elementary district, falls in the middle of the pack. The data shows that higher per-student spending does not guarantee better results, but lower chronic absenteeism is strongly linked to stronger academic performance across all schools.