Summary:
This analysis examines four elementary schools serving grades PK-5 in Boynton Beach, FL (zip code 33435), all part of the Palm Beach County School District, where a high level of economic disadvantage is common across the schools.
Poinciana Stem Elementary Magnet School is the clear standout, earning a 2-star or 3-star rating and exceeding state averages in 5th Grade Science (64% vs. 60%) and 5th Grade ELA (69% vs. 61%). It also boasts the lowest chronic absenteeism rate (12.0%)—less than half the district average. Forest Park Elementary School is the second-best performer, showing a consistent upward trend in state ranking and relative strength in 4th Grade Math (64%). In contrast, Galaxy Elementary School and Rolling Green Elementary School are the lowest-performing, with 0-star ratings and scores 10-20 percentage points below state averages in subjects like 5th Grade ELA (38% and 46% vs. 61%). Galaxy also has the highest chronic absenteeism rate (30.1%).
A key takeaway is that spending does not equal success: Rolling Green spends the most per student ($18,524) but is the lowest-performing, while Poinciana spends less ($16,937) and excels. Chronic absenteeism is a powerful predictor of performance, with Poinciana’s low rate correlating with its top results. Math is a relative strength at Forest Park and Galaxy, suggesting targeted instructional success. Overall, Poinciana’s magnet program appears to drive a positive school culture that overcomes socioeconomic challenges, making it the top choice in this area.
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