Summary:
Saint Marks, Florida, is home to a single school, Wakulla Coast Charter School Of Arts Science & Technology, a public charter school serving grades PK through 8 within the Wakulla County school district.
This school presents a fascinating paradox for parents. On one hand, it achieves standout results in specific areas: 8th graders hit a 73% proficiency in math (far exceeding the state's 61%), and students score an impressive 94% proficiency in civics. However, these bright spots are overshadowed by severe challenges. The school has ranked in the bottom 10% of Florida elementary schools for three consecutive years, earning a 0-star rating. Early-grade performance is critically low, with only 10% of 3rd graders proficient in math and 16% of 5th graders proficient in science—both far below state averages. The most alarming metric is a chronic absenteeism rate of 61.4%, nearly double the state average, which is likely the root cause of the school's overall struggles.
Despite serving a predominantly low-income population (65% eligible for free/reduced lunch) and spending below the state average at $7,392 per student, the school shows a "growth paradox." Proficiency rates often drop in 4th and 5th grades before recovering dramatically by 7th and 8th grade, suggesting effective upper-grade programs in math and civics. As a charter school, it has autonomy that yields mixed results: exceptional performance in specific subjects, but an inability to solve foundational issues like early-grade learning and chronic absenteeism. For parents, this school offers potential for older students in math and civics, but requires careful consideration of the significant attendance and early-grade challenges.
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