Summary:
Zip code 32826 in Orlando, Florida, is home to two public elementary schools serving grades PK-5, both part of the Orange County school district: East Lake Elementary and Bonneville Elementary.
East Lake Elementary is the clear academic standout, earning a 3-star rating and ranking in the 64th percentile statewide. It outperforms Bonneville Elementary in every tested subject, with 67% of 3rd graders proficient in English Language Arts compared to 48% at Bonneville, and 72% proficient in math versus 57%. East Lake is also on an upward trajectory, improving its state ranking by 13 percentile points over three years. In contrast, Bonneville Elementary has a 2-star rating and a stagnant ranking in the 39th percentile. A key paradox is that Bonneville spends $19,687 per student—43% more than East Lake’s $13,803—and has a lower student-teacher ratio (11.7:1 vs. 14.8:1), yet achieves significantly lower test scores. This suggests that how funds are used matters more than the amount spent.
Chronic absenteeism is a critical differentiator. Bonneville Elementary has a 39.0% chronic absenteeism rate, well above the district average of 35.2% and the state average of 31.4%, while East Lake Elementary is lower at 26.8%. Bonneville also serves a higher percentage of economically disadvantaged students (62.4% free/reduced lunch) compared to East Lake (49.31%). For families, East Lake Elementary is the stronger academic choice with efficient resource use and improving performance, while Bonneville Elementary faces challenges related to student attendance and translating higher spending into better outcomes.
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