Summary:
Zip code 19713 in Newark, DE, is served by 9 schools within the Christina School District, offering a range of options from elementary through high school, including specialized programs, for approximately 4,528 students.
For families, the standout choice is Brookside Elementary School, which has shown a dramatic turnaround, jumping from the 36th to the 65th percentile in just two years and earning 3 stars—the highest rating in the area. It now outperforms other local elementaries like Gallaher (Robert S.) Elementary School, McVey (Joseph M.) Elementary School, and Smith (Jennie E.) Elementary School in both ELA and math. A unique situation exists at Christiana High School, where 6th-8th grade test scores are exceptional, often 2-3 times the district average, but performance drops significantly by 11th grade. The most concerning data comes from Gauger-Cobbs Middle School, which ranks in the 15th percentile with very low proficiency rates in science and math, and a high chronic absenteeism rate of 22.1%. Kirk (George V.) Middle School also struggles, with proficiency rates below state averages.
A clear academic cliff exists between elementary and middle school, with proficiency rates dropping by roughly half. While chronic absenteeism is low at most elementary schools, it is a significant issue at Brennen School (The) (33.6%) and Delaware School for the Deaf (25.4%), which also have the highest per-student spending due to specialized services. Science is a consistent weakness across all schools, while social studies is a relative strength. Overall, this zip code offers a strong elementary option in Brookside and a powerful middle school program at Christiana, but families should be aware of the challenges at the traditional middle schools.
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