Summary:
Zip code 33037, covering Key Largo, Florida, is home to two schools serving grades PK-8 or K-8 within the highly-rated Monroe County School District, offering a clear contrast in educational environments for a combined 870 students.
Ocean Studies Charter stands out as the top academic performer, despite being a much smaller school with 180 students. It consistently exceeds district and state averages, earning a 4-star rating and ranking in the 72nd percentile statewide. Its academic trajectory is strong, with projected 2025-2026 data showing 100% proficiency in 3rd Grade Math and Civics. In contrast, Key Largo School is the larger, traditional public school with 690 students and a 3-star rating. While it performs solidly, often meeting district averages, it trails Ocean Studies Charter in most subjects. Notably, Key Largo School spends significantly more per student ($20,741 vs. $17,405) but does not achieve the same academic results, highlighting that spending does not directly correlate with performance. Key Largo School also serves a more economically diverse population, with 61.74% of students eligible for free or reduced lunch compared to 24.44% at the charter school.
Both schools share similar chronic absenteeism rates (around 24%), which are below the state average. Key Largo School shows inconsistent performance across grade levels, such as a drop to 41% proficiency in 5th Grade Math, while Ocean Studies Charter demonstrates a clear upward trend in its state ranking. For families prioritizing raw test scores and a smaller environment, Ocean Studies Charter is the standout choice. However, Key Largo School provides a vital educational foundation for a larger, more diverse community, performing admirably given the higher needs of its student body.
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