Sweetwater Elementary School

Sweetwater Elementary School in Lithia Springs, GA, serves approximately 473 students in grades PK-5 as part of Douglas County Schools. The school has earned a 2-star rating and now ranks in the 31st percentile statewide—a meaningful improvement from last year’s 1-star rating and 29th percentile, showing a clear upward trajectory after several challenging years.

One of the school’s biggest strengths is its work with Hispanic students, where it ranks in the 65th percentile statewide—a standout result that outpaces its overall performance. Math scores are improving across all grade levels, with 3rd grade jumping from 18.3% to 26.1% proficiency and 5th grade recovering from 28.1% to 34.4%. Science has been a remarkable success story, climbing from 13.3% proficiency in 2022-2023 to 34.5% today—nearly matching the district average and actually exceeding Brighten Academy’s 20.2% science score, despite serving a much higher-poverty population. Chronic absenteeism has also dropped dramatically to 15.8%, now below both the district (22.1%) and state (17.7%) averages, and the school maintains a favorable 14.5:1 student-teacher ratio.

Sweetwater serves a predominantly low-income population (87.95% free/reduced lunch) yet outperforms several nearby schools with similar or higher poverty levels and greater per-student spending. For example, Eastside Elementary ranks in the 14th percentile and Burnett Elementary in the bottom 10%, despite spending more per student. While English Language Arts scores from the current year aren’t yet available, last year’s 5th grade ELA proficiency (37.5%) was close to the district average and showed strong growth from prior years. With improving academics, better attendance, and notable success with Hispanic learners, Sweetwater is building real momentum and using its resources efficiently to support student growth.