Summary:
Zip code 33621 is home to a single elementary school, Tinker K-8 School, a public school serving grades PK through 8 with 560 students in the Hillsborough district. This school stands out as a high-performing institution, consistently outperforming both district and state averages in nearly all academic metrics, with particularly exceptional results in advanced coursework like Algebra 1 (93% proficiency) and Civics (89% proficiency). The school also benefits from a low poverty rate, with only 26.96% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch, and an excellent chronic absenteeism rate of 13.7%, which is less than half the district and state averages.
Key metrics reveal a school of strong contrasts. While Tinker K-8 excels in most grades, a notable "4th grade slump" is evident, with proficiency in both 4th Grade Math and English Language Arts dropping to 58%, falling below the state average in math. The school's state ranking has declined from the 81st percentile in 2023-2024 to a projected 70th percentile for 2025-2026, despite maintaining high test scores, suggesting other schools are improving at a faster pace. The student-teacher ratio is 15.5:1, and spending per student is $12,647, reflecting a well-resourced environment.
For parents, Tinker K-8 offers a compelling option with a strong academic foundation, especially in advanced subjects, and a highly engaged student body. The school's low absenteeism and low poverty rates are positive indicators of stability and support. However, the declining state rank and the specific challenges in 4th grade are areas to monitor. Overall, this is a school that provides excellent preparation for high school-level work, making it a standout choice within the zip code, though its trajectory warrants attention for continued improvement.
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