Summary:
The 50320 zip code area in Des Moines, Iowa is home to 3 schools: 2 elementary schools (River Woods Elementary and Jackson Elementary) and 1 middle school (McCombs Middle School). While the schools face challenges with high chronic absenteeism and economic disadvantage, Jackson Elementary stands out as a relatively strong performer, outpacing district and state averages in English Language Arts and Mathematics proficiency.
The data reveals stark contrasts in school performance within the same district. Jackson Elementary boasts the highest proficiency rates in 3rd grade ELA (61.7%) and 3rd grade Math (65%), while the other schools struggle to meet district and state averages. River Woods Elementary also has some bright spots, with strong 5th grade ELA (55.7%) and Math (55.7%) proficiency, as well as a noteworthy 5th grade Science proficiency rate of 52.9%.
Across the schools, high levels of economic disadvantage are evident, with free/reduced lunch rates ranging from 72.53% to 80.4%. This, coupled with the consistently high chronic absenteeism rates of 21.6%, suggests that addressing attendance and engagement could be a key focus for improving academic outcomes in this community. Despite the funding levels being relatively high, with spending per student ranging from $14,664 to $15,448, the overall academic performance remains a concern, indicating the need to examine resource allocation strategies within the Des Moines Independent Community School District.
Thank you for your feedback!