Summary:
The two schools in zip code 32619, Bell High School and Bell Elementary School, serve the Bell, FL area within the highly-rated Gilchrist School District, which ranks in the 91st percentile statewide.
Bell High School is the standout school in the area, consistently earning a 4-star rating and ranking in the top 80th percentile of Florida high schools. It is an academic powerhouse, particularly in science and civics, with proficiency rates dramatically exceeding state averages—such as 96% proficiency in Civics and 89% in Biology 1. In contrast, Bell Elementary School shows a more variable performance, currently holding a 3-star rating after a significant drop from its previous 4-star status. While the elementary school excels in early grades (3rd graders achieved 86% proficiency in ELA and 90% in Math), it struggles to maintain that momentum through 4th and 5th grades, where proficiency drops sharply. This "3rd Grade Peak" suggests a challenge in transitioning students to more complex work.
Key metrics reveal a paradox: Bell Elementary School spends more per student ($12,288) and has a slightly better student-teacher ratio than Bell High School ($11,675), yet its academic outcomes are weaker. A major factor may be chronic absenteeism, which is significantly higher at the elementary school (27.0%) compared to the high school (18.3%). While the high school's graduation rate of 86.6% is below the state average, its overall consistent high performance makes it the clear choice for families seeking strong academic programs, especially in middle school math and science. The elementary school, despite its challenges, provides a strong foundation in early grades, but parents should be aware of the drop-off in upper elementary performance and the attendance concerns.
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