Summary:
The six public schools in Lakeland's 33813 zip code, part of the Polk County district, serve students from elementary through high school and present a wide range of academic experiences, from standout performers to those facing significant challenges.
Valleyview Elementary School is the clear academic leader, consistently earning a 4-star rating and ranking in the 77th percentile statewide, with the lowest chronic absenteeism (25.6%) and the lowest percentage of students on free/reduced lunch (41.38%). In stark contrast, Medulla Elementary School is the most challenged, with a 1-star rating, the highest chronic absenteeism (41.2%), and the highest poverty rate (72.95%), resulting in test scores well below district and state averages. Lakeland Highlands Middle School presents a paradox: its overall state ranking is average, yet its students in advanced math courses (Algebra 1 and Geometry) achieve elite proficiency rates of 88% and 93%, far exceeding district and state averages. George W. Jenkins Senior High is a community strength, boasting an exceptional 98.9% graduation rate, nearly 7 points above the state average, and exceeding state averages in Biology and US History exams.
A key takeaway is the strong correlation between socioeconomic factors and performance, as seen in the contrast between Valleyview and Medulla, which are less than 5 miles apart. Additionally, spending per student does not guarantee better outcomes: Medulla spends the most ($12,878) but performs the worst, while Valleyview spends less ($11,059) and performs the best. The average chronic absenteeism rate across the six schools is 33.1%, higher than the state average, highlighting a significant area of concern for the community.
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