Summary:
Zip code 30273 in Rex, Georgia, is served by a single elementary school, Roberta T. Smith Elementary School, which enrolls 720 students in grades PK through 5 as part of the Clayton County School District.
Roberta T. Smith Elementary School is a standout example of a school on the rise. Over the past two years, its state ranking has jumped from the 8th percentile to the 32nd percentile, a gain of 309 positions. This progress is backed by strong year-over-year improvements in mathematics, with 3rd grade proficiency rising from 23.3% to 37.2%, 4th grade from 35.4% to 44.9%, and 5th grade from 12.9% to 22.9%. The school now outperforms its district in 3rd and 4th grade math and in 5th grade science, despite the district itself ranking in the bottom 20% of Georgia. Perhaps most impressive is the school's chronic absenteeism rate of just 9.6%—less than half the state average and roughly one-third of the district's 28.0%—a remarkable achievement given that 100% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.
While the school's trajectory is encouraging, there are areas that need attention. Fifth grade mathematics remains the weakest subject, with a 22-point drop in proficiency compared to 4th grade, suggesting a possible transition challenge. English Language Arts scores from the 2024–2025 school year were also well below state averages, though the school's success in other subjects suggests similar gains may be possible. The school benefits from a favorable 13:1 student-teacher ratio and high per-student spending of $16,553, resources that appear to be yielding measurable results. For parents, this is a school that is clearly improving, investing in its students, and building a strong foundation for future success.
Thank you for your feedback!