Best Elementary Schools in Zip Code 06851

Zip code 06851 is home to 4 public elementary schools serving grades PK-5, all part of the Norwalk School District, which ranks in the lower half of Connecticut districts. These schools collectively enroll about 1,543 students, and while they share a zip code, they vary significantly in academic performance, resources, and economic need.

Cranbury Elementary School is the clear academic leader, ranking 226th in the state and earning 3 stars—the only school in the group to exceed state averages in both ELA (62.8%) and math (57.8%). It also has the lowest chronic absenteeism (7.2%) and the lowest economic need (36.1% free/reduced lunch). Wolfpit Integrated Arts Elementary School is the most improved, jumping 42 spots in the rankings, and boasts the smallest class sizes (10.4 student-teacher ratio) and highest per-student spending ($19,611). Naramake Elementary School stands out in science, with 56.4% of 5th graders proficient in NGSS, far above the district and state averages, though it has the highest chronic absenteeism (11.4%). Tracey Magnet School is the most challenged: despite its magnet label, it ranks lowest (350th), has the highest poverty rate (60.8%), largest class sizes (14.4), lowest spending ($18,100), and test scores well below district and state averages—especially in 3rd grade math, where only 20% are proficient.

There is a striking 23.5-point gap in overall proficiency between Cranbury (60.3%) and Tracey (36.8%), highlighting equity concerns within the same district. Schools with higher economic need generally show lower performance, and math proficiency tends to decline between 3rd and 5th grade across most schools. On a positive note, three of the four schools improved their rankings year-over-year, with Naramake's science scores jumping over 22 points. For parents, Cranbury is the most consistent academic choice, while Wolfpit offers strong resources and momentum; Naramake is a solid option with an excellent science program, and Tracey would benefit most from additional support and intervention.