Summary:
This analysis examines three middle schools in the 33830 zip code of Bartow, Florida, serving grades 5-8 within the Polk school district, revealing a stark performance gap between a standout school and two others facing significant challenges.
Union Academy is the clear standout performer, earning a 4-star rating and ranking in the 75th percentile statewide. It significantly outperforms both district and state averages in nearly every subject, with 76% proficiency in ELA and 60% in math. Its chronic absenteeism rate of 14.5% is exceptionally low. In contrast, Bartow Middle School holds a 1-star rating and ranks in the 18th percentile, with test scores generally below district and state averages. However, Bartow Middle shows a paradox: its students taking advanced End-of-Course exams perform exceptionally well, with 95% proficient in Geometry and 94% in Civics, suggesting strong programs for top-tier students despite a struggling general curriculum.
Compass Middle Charter School faces the most severe challenges, with a 0-star rating and ranking in the 5th percentile. Its chronic absenteeism rate of 66.7% is alarmingly high, and test scores are critically low—only 11% proficient in math and 9% in 8th-grade science. The data shows a clear correlation between poverty, absenteeism, and performance: Union Academy has the lowest poverty rate (48.95%) and absenteeism, while Compass Middle has the highest poverty rate (86.9%) and absenteeism. Notably, Union Academy spends the most per student ($11,630) and achieves the best results, while Compass Middle spends the least ($8,325) despite facing the greatest challenges, indicating that how money is spent matters more than the raw amount.
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