Summary:
Zip code 33556 in Odessa, Florida, is served by two high-performing elementary schools: Starkey Ranch K-8 and Hammond Elementary School, which together offer a range of educational options from kindergarten through eighth grade in a suburban setting.
Hammond Elementary School stands out as the top-ranked school in the area, earning a 5-star rating and ranking in the 96th percentile statewide. It consistently outperforms Starkey Ranch K-8 in nearly every elementary-level subject, including 3rd-5th grade math and English Language Arts, despite having a higher percentage of students eligible for free or reduced lunch (23.48% vs. 11.47%). With a smaller enrollment of 690 students and a lower student-teacher ratio of 14.4:1, Hammond Elementary achieves math proficiency rates 20-25 percentage points above the state average, demonstrating exceptional effectiveness. However, Starkey Ranch K-8 excels in advanced coursework, with 93% proficiency in Algebra 1, 100% in Geometry, and 95% in Civics, making it an elite choice for families seeking a strong middle school pathway. Both schools share low chronic absenteeism rates (around 13%), less than half the state average, indicating a highly engaged community.
A key takeaway is the contrast between the two districts: Hammond Elementary belongs to Hillsborough County, while Starkey Ranch K-8 is part of Pasco County. Despite Hammond Elementary having higher per-student spending ($11,767 vs. $9,896), Starkey Ranch K-8 achieves strong results with fewer resources, suggesting different cost structures. Overall, families in 33556 have access to two excellent schools: Hammond Elementary for top-tier elementary performance and Starkey Ranch K-8 for a comprehensive K-8 experience with advanced academic opportunities.
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