Summary:
This analysis examines 11 elementary-level schools in zip code 33020 (Hollywood, FL), all part of the Broward school district, revealing a stark divide in performance, socioeconomic status, and resource allocation within this single area.
The standout school is Beachside Montessori Village, ranked in the 97th percentile statewide and offering advanced coursework with near-perfect proficiency rates. Other top performers include Hollywood Academy Of Arts & Science (93rd percentile) and Ben Gamla Charter School North Campus (92nd percentile). At the other end, Sunshine Elementary Charter School ranks in the 6th percentile, while Oakridge Elementary and Hollywood Central Elementary sit in the 19th and 24th percentiles, respectively. A notable paradox: Sunshine Elementary has the lowest poverty rate (3.15% free/reduced lunch) but is the lowest-ranked school, defying typical trends. Meanwhile, the highest-spending schools—Hollywood Central ($19,382 per student), Oakridge ($18,657), and Mary M Bethune Elementary ($18,175)—are among the lowest-performing, suggesting higher spending is a response to greater challenges rather than a driver of success.
Chronic absenteeism is a critical indicator: Beachside Montessori has a low 5.9% rate, while Oakridge and Hollywood Central exceed 52%, correlating strongly with low performance. Two Ben Gamla Charter School campuses share a name but show different trajectories—the North Campus is rising, while the main campus has declined. Additionally, two schools named Avant Garde Academy K-5 Broward and Avant Garde Academy Foundation K8 share an address, with the larger school having a 1-star rating and high absenteeism, while the smaller one lacks ranking data. Overall, families should prioritize schools with low chronic absenteeism and strong state rankings, as spending alone does not guarantee quality.
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