Summary:
Zip code 30529 in Commerce, Georgia, is home to two middle schools—Commerce Middle School and East Jackson Middle School—serving roughly 1,115 students in grades 5–8 across two different districts, Commerce City and Jackson County.
Commerce Middle School is the clear standout in this area, earning a 4-star rating and ranking in the 83rd percentile statewide. Its 8th grade math proficiency rate of 75% is exceptional—nearly 29 points above the state average—and its advanced physical science proficiency (92.6%) more than doubles the state norm. The school also excels in social studies (56.1% vs. 40.2% state) and maintains a chronic absenteeism rate (13.1%) well below the state average. By contrast, East Jackson Middle School holds a 3-star rating and ranks in the 61st percentile. While it posts a remarkable 100% proficiency in Algebra I—more than double the state average—this success doesn't carry over to general 8th grade math (48.3%) or social studies (37.2%), both of which trail state averages. East Jackson also underperforms its own district across nearly every subject, suggesting school-level challenges despite spending about $2,800 more per student than Commerce.
For parents, the choice is fairly clear: Commerce Middle School offers stronger overall academics, particularly in math and science, and benefits from being part of a top-ranked district (Commerce City ranks 16th of 201 districts). East Jackson Middle School serves only grades 6–7, so its 8th grade data reflects students who tested elsewhere, making direct comparisons tricky. Both schools maintain healthy student-teacher ratios (around 14:1) and chronic absenteeism rates below the state average, but Commerce's consistent year-over-year performance and higher state ranking make it the stronger option for families prioritizing academic outcomes.
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