Summary:
This analysis examines five elementary schools in Miami's zip code 33127, all part of the Miami-Dade school district, serving a total of 2,047 students in a predominantly low-income area where schools generally underperform compared to the state average.
Mater Academy Of International Studies stands out as the top academic performer, achieving the highest state ranking (45th percentile) and strong proficiency gains in math and English despite serving the highest percentage of economically disadvantaged students (88% on free/reduced lunch) and spending the least per student ($9,952). In contrast, Paul Laurence Dunbar K-8 Center spends the most per student ($15,633) and has the smallest class sizes, yet ranks among the lowest performers, though it excels in advanced coursework with 100% Algebra 1 proficiency. Eneida M. Hartner Elementary School shows the most dramatic improvement, with its state ranking rising from the 14th to 27th percentile and notable gains in 5th grade English and math, driven by the lowest chronic absenteeism rate in the area at just 8.6%—far below the district average of 28.2%.
The data reveals that attendance is the strongest predictor of success, as the two schools with the lowest absenteeism—Eneida M. Hartner and Mater Academy—are the top performers, while Lenora Braynon Smith Elementary and Paul Laurence Dunbar, with absenteeism rates near 40%, struggle the most. Overall, the area's average state ranking of 24th percentile and high poverty rate (66.86% on free/reduced lunch) indicate systemic challenges, but Mater Academy's efficient model and Eneida M. Hartner's attendance-focused improvement offer promising examples for parents seeking strong academic environments in this zip code.
Thank you for your feedback!