Best Public Schools in Zip Code 62449

The 62449 zip code area is home to two schools - Oblong Elementary School and Oblong High School, both part of the Oblong CUSD 4 district. While the schools serve different grade levels, they share some concerning similarities in their academic performance and student outcomes.

Oblong Elementary School has a relatively large enrollment of 373 students in grades PK-8, but consistently ranks in the bottom half of Illinois elementary schools. The school struggles with low proficiency rates in English Language Arts and Mathematics, well below the state average. Chronic absenteeism is also high at 25.4%, and over half of the students receive free or reduced-price lunch, indicating a disadvantaged student population. In contrast, Oblong High School has a smaller enrollment of 165 students in grades 9-12, but faces similar challenges, with low statewide rankings and mixed academic performance.

Both schools demonstrate concerning academic underperformance, with proficiency rates in core subjects falling well below state averages. This is likely a significant factor in their low statewide rankings. Additionally, the high chronic absenteeism rates at both schools suggest attendance issues that may be negatively impacting student learning and achievement. Despite the relatively high per-student spending, the schools do not appear to be translating those resources into strong academic outcomes, raising questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of how funds are being utilized.