Summary:
The 32210 zip code in Jacksonville, Florida, is home to two public high schools, Edward H. White High School and Frank H. Peterson Academies, serving grades 9-12 within the Duval County school district, which faces significant challenges ranking in the 23rd percentile statewide.
Frank H. Peterson Academies stands out as the stronger overall performer, with a higher state ranking (40th percentile) that has improved for three consecutive years. It boasts a lower chronic absenteeism rate (48.1% vs. 64.0% at White) and superior test scores in English Language Arts (58% proficiency in 10th grade) and US History (79%). In contrast, Edward H. White High School excels in STEM subjects, with higher proficiency in Algebra 1 (46% vs. 33%) and Biology (72% vs. 66%). Both schools achieve exceptionally high graduation rates (98.4% at White, 98.9% at Peterson), far exceeding state and district averages, despite their below-average academic proficiency in core subjects.
The most critical challenge is chronic absenteeism, which is alarmingly high at both schools—especially at White, where it is double the state average. This likely drives the low test scores. Despite similar spending per student (around $9,200) and student-teacher ratios (about 21:1), the schools have inverse academic strengths: White for math and science, Peterson for humanities. This creates a clear choice for families based on a student's interests. Peterson's consistent upward trajectory makes it a school to watch, while addressing absenteeism at both schools would likely yield the greatest improvement in student outcomes.
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