Wallace Lake K-8

Wallace Lake K-8 in Pace, FL, is a high-performing public school serving 1,061 students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade, and it stands out as a 5-star academic powerhouse within the Santa Rosa County School District. The school ranks in the 92nd percentile among all Florida elementary schools, and its test scores dramatically outpace both district and state averages. For example, 8th-grade math proficiency is 91%, compared to the district average of 73%, and the school achieves near-perfect scores of 99% in Algebra 1 and 100% in Geometry. This exceptional performance is a clear differentiator from nearby schools like East Milton Elementary School and W. H. Rhodes Elementary School, which are rated 1 or 2 stars.

One of the most striking findings is the school's low chronic absenteeism rate of just 7.9%, which is less than half the district average (20%) and a quarter of the state average (31.4%). This indicates a highly engaged student body and a supportive school environment. In contrast, nearby schools like East Milton (31.9%) and W. H. Rhodes (32.5%) have absenteeism rates four times higher. Additionally, Wallace Lake K-8 spends $8,363 per student, the lowest among comparable schools, yet achieves far better results—a testament to its efficient use of resources. The K-8 model also provides continuity, reducing the transition shock between elementary and middle school, which likely contributes to its strong 8th-grade outcomes.

While the school excels in nearly every subject, 7th-grade math is a consistent anomaly, with proficiency dropping to 63% in the most recent year, though still above district and state averages. This suggests a specific area for potential improvement. Overall, Wallace Lake K-8 demonstrates a culture of continuous improvement, with its state ranking rising from the 88th to the 92nd percentile in just one year. For parents seeking a school that combines top-tier academics, low absenteeism, and efficient spending, Wallace Lake K-8 is a standout choice in the Pace area.