Summary:
This analysis examines the two public high schools in Tampa’s 33607 zip code, Blake High School and Jefferson High School, both part of the Hillsborough County School District, serving grades 9-12 in an area where chronic absenteeism is a significant challenge.
Jefferson High School stands out for its strong graduation rate of 94.1%, which exceeds both the district (90.9%) and state (92.2%) averages, and is notably higher than Blake High School's 87.5% rate. Jefferson also shows positive academic momentum, with improvements in Algebra 1 proficiency (from 31% to 35%) and 9th Grade ELA (from 35% to 49%) between school years. However, Blake High School holds a slightly higher state ranking (595 vs. 612 out of 838) and has a lower chronic absenteeism rate (43.1% vs. 47.5%), though both rates are alarmingly high compared to the district and state averages of about 31%.
Key metrics reveal that both schools face significant academic challenges, particularly in math, with Algebra 1 proficiency rates (32% at Blake, 35% at Jefferson) far below the state average of 63%. Biology 1 proficiency is stronger but still trails state averages. Interestingly, Blake High School spends $384 more per student ($10,157 vs. $9,773) than Jefferson High School, yet Jefferson outperforms Blake in graduation rate and most test scores, suggesting differences in how resources are used. The most critical takeaway is the systemic crisis of chronic absenteeism, which is roughly 50% higher than state averages and likely the primary barrier to improved academic outcomes for both schools.
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