Summary:
The 8 schools in zip code 33617 (Tampa/Temple Terrace, FL) are part of the Hillsborough school district and serve grades PK-12, but the area is marked by widespread academic struggles, with one clear standout school.
Riverhills Elementary Magnet School is the top performer in the area, earning a 3-star rating and ranking in the 70th percentile statewide—a stark contrast to the other schools, which all rank in the bottom 10%. Riverhills also has the lowest chronic absenteeism rate (14.5%) and consistently exceeds district and state test score averages. In contrast, Woodmont Charter School is the lowest-performing school, ranking in the 2nd percentile despite having the lowest poverty rate (21.84%). Woodmont suffers from a 63.7% chronic absenteeism rate, the highest in the area. Pizzo K-8 School and Woodmont both show an "Algebra 1 Paradox," with very high Algebra 1 proficiency (95% and 91%) but very low scores in lower-grade math, suggesting only advanced students take that exam. Greco Middle Magnet School also struggles with a 59.7% chronic absenteeism rate and the largest class sizes (19.5:1).
The most critical issue across the zip code is chronic absenteeism, averaging 44.6%—42% higher than the state average. This directly correlates with low test scores, as the school with the lowest absenteeism (Riverhills) has the best outcomes. Spending does not predict success: Lewis Elementary School spends $13,248 per student but ranks in the 4th percentile, while Riverhills spends less ($12,396) and achieves top results. The specialized schools—Focus Academy and Florida Autism Charter School of Excellence—have the highest per-student spending (over $25,000) but serve unique populations, making direct comparisons difficult. For parents, Riverhills Elementary Magnet School is the clear choice for strong academics, while other schools face significant challenges with attendance and performance.
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