Summary:
Zip code 32309 in Tallahassee, FL, is home to three high-performing public schools within the Leon County School District, serving elementary and middle school grades (K-8) and representing a pocket of academic excellence in a district rated 2 stars.
William J Montford III Middle School stands out as the academic powerhouse, achieving a remarkable 100% proficiency in Geometry and Biology 1 EOCs and 99% in Algebra 1 for the 2025-2026 school year, far exceeding district and state averages. However, it faces a notable "middle school math cliff," with math proficiency dropping from 88% in 6th grade to just 59% in 8th grade. In contrast, Desoto Trail Elementary School is the efficiency and attendance champion, boasting an exceptionally low chronic absenteeism rate of 7.5% and achieving an 85th percentile state ranking while spending $2,282 less per student than its elementary counterpart. Roberts Elementary School also performs strongly, leading in elementary ELA proficiency with an average of 73.3% and spending the most per student at $12,304.
Key metrics reveal a consistently high-performing area: all three schools hold 4-star ratings and rank in the 84th-85th percentile statewide, despite the district's overall 44th percentile ranking. The zip code averages a low 18.34% free/reduced lunch rate and a 14.6% chronic absenteeism rate, both significantly better than district and state averages. Science is a clear strength across all schools, with scores well above benchmarks. For parents, this zip code offers a choice between two excellent elementary schools—Desoto Trail for efficiency and attendance, Roberts for slightly higher ELA scores—and a top-tier middle school in Montford, though they should be aware of the math proficiency decline in later grades.
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