Summary:
The four schools in zip code 33707 (Gulfport/St. Petersburg, FL) are part of the Pinellas district and include two elementary schools and two high schools, serving a predominantly low-income population with a wide range of academic outcomes.
Bear Creek Elementary School is the standout performer in the area, earning a 3-star rating and showing strong upward momentum. Despite a 73% free/reduced lunch rate, its 3rd graders achieved 76% proficiency in ELA and 79% in Math, far exceeding state averages. In contrast, Gulfport Montessori Elementary School has a 2-star rating and mixed results, with strong 5th-grade Science scores (65%) but lower ELA proficiency. Among high schools, Boca Ciega High School boasts a high graduation rate of 94.5% but struggles with academic proficiency, as only 37% of students are proficient in Algebra 1. Disston Academy is the most challenged school, with a 0-star rating, critically low proficiency rates, and an 88.4% chronic absenteeism rate, despite spending $45,822 per student.
Key takeaways include the success of Bear Creek Elementary in overcoming socioeconomic barriers, the paradox of Boca Ciega High's high graduation rate but low test scores, and the severe chronic absenteeism crisis affecting three of the four schools. Disston Academy's high spending and small class sizes have not translated into academic gains, highlighting the profound needs of its student population. Overall, families in this area will find a stark contrast between high-performing Bear Creek Elementary and struggling Disston Academy, with Boca Ciega High offering a strong path to graduation but weaker academic mastery.
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