Summary:
This analysis examines seven elementary schools in zip code 32825 (Orlando, FL), serving grades PK-5 within the Orange district, an area with a wide performance spectrum from top-tier state-ranked institutions to those facing significant challenges.
Cypress Springs Elementary is the standout top performer, earning a 5-star rating and ranking in the top 10% of Florida elementary schools, with proficiency rates far exceeding district and state averages. Andover Elementary is a strong contender, consistently earning 4 stars with particular strength in 4th-grade ELA and 5th-grade Science. In contrast, Renaissance Charter School At Chickasaw Trail is the lowest-performing school, with a 0-star rating, a 44.9% chronic absenteeism rate, and test scores well below averages. Little River Elementary shows the most improvement, jumping from the 24th to the 38th percentile over three years, though it still faces challenges. Lawton Chiles Elementary and Union Park Elementary have similar poverty rates, but Lawton Chiles ranks significantly higher (55th percentile vs. 29th), suggesting factors like instructional quality make a difference.
Key metrics reveal stark contrasts: chronic absenteeism is the most predictive metric, with top schools like Cypress Springs (15.3%) and Andover (21.4%) having low rates, while struggling schools exceed 37%. Per-student spending varies from $10,516 to $15,620, but higher spending does not guarantee better outcomes—Little River spends the most yet ranks low, while Cypress Springs spends less and excels. Math proficiency is a consistent weakness across nearly all schools, with gaps wider in lower-performing schools. The charter school underperforms its public counterparts, challenging assumptions about charter superiority. Overall, parents should prioritize schools with low absenteeism and strong test scores, while recognizing that poverty rates correlate with performance but are not destiny, as seen in Lawton Chiles' relative success.
Thank you for your feedback!