High Schools in Hamilton

Hamilton County is served by a single high school, Hamilton County High School, located in Jasper, Florida, which enrolls 808 students across grades 6 through 12 and faces significant challenges despite a high graduation rate.

Hamilton County High School presents a complex picture for parents. On one hand, its graduation rate of 92.9% slightly exceeds the state average, a notable achievement. However, this positive metric contrasts sharply with its academic performance. The school holds a 1-star rating and ranks in the bottom quartile of Florida high schools (24th percentile). Proficiency rates in core subjects are well below state averages, with only 50% of 10th graders proficient in ELA (state: 61%), 48% in Algebra 1 (state: 63%), and a concerning 47% in Biology 1 (state: 74%). The most significant struggle is in 8th Grade Science, where just 23% of students are proficient compared to 52% statewide. A bright spot is Civics, where 70% of students meet standards, approaching the state average of 77%.

The most critical issue facing the school is a chronic absenteeism rate of 49.4%, meaning nearly half of all students miss significant amounts of school—far above the state average of 31.4%. This is likely a primary driver of the low test scores. Additionally, 72.28% of students are eligible for free or reduced lunch, indicating high economic disadvantage. The school spends $13,296 per student with a 16.4:1 student-teacher ratio. Parents should note the disconnect between the high graduation rate and low academic proficiency, which may suggest effective credit recovery systems rather than grade-level mastery. Any improvement strategy must prioritize addressing the attendance crisis to improve overall outcomes.