Best Public Schools in Zip Code 32696

The three public schools in zip code 32696 (Williston, FL) serve 2,274 students across a unique grade configuration, with Joyce M. Bullock Elementary School covering PK-2, Williston Elementary School serving grades 3-5, and Williston Middle High School educating students from 6th through 12th grade, all part of the Levy district which ranks in the 33rd percentile statewide.

Williston Middle High School stands out for its high 95.7% graduation rate, well above the state average, and a remarkable 78% math proficiency among 6th graders—18 points higher than the state. However, this success does not persist into later grades, as 8th grade math drops to just 35% proficient. The school also struggles with a 31.8% chronic absenteeism rate. In contrast, Williston Elementary School has the best attendance in the area at 19.6% chronic absenteeism, yet its academic performance consistently trails state averages, with 5th grade math at 46% versus 62% statewide. Joyce M. Bullock Elementary School spends the most per student ($11,418) but has the highest chronic absenteeism rate (33.7%) among the elementary schools, and lacks test score data to assess its foundational instruction.

A key takeaway is the potential disconnect between the two elementary schools, as students moving from Joyce M. Bullock to Williston Elementary show below-average proficiency, suggesting a need for better curriculum alignment. Spending does not predict outcomes here: Williston Middle High School spends the least per student ($10,023) but achieves a high graduation rate, while Joyce M. Bullock spends more with weaker attendance. Overall, the area shows a mixed picture—strong graduation rates and a standout 6th grade math program at the middle/high school, but persistent academic challenges in elementary and upper middle school grades, with the district's ranking declining from the 40th to 33rd percentile in recent years.