Summary:
Stafford, Kansas is home to two schools - Stafford Elementary and Stafford Middle School/High School. While both schools face challenges, they also show signs of progress and potential.
Stafford Elementary has seen its statewide ranking improve in recent years, moving from 502nd out of 660 Kansas elementary schools in 2022-2023 to 336th out of 656 in 2024-2025. However, the school still holds a 2-out-of-5-star rating from SchoolDigger. Stafford Middle School/High School has maintained a 2-star rating, ranking in the top half of Kansas high schools, and boasts a 89.5% four-year graduation rate.
Both schools face challenges in academic performance, particularly in math, with proficiency rates below state averages. High chronic absenteeism rates, around 19.5%, likely contribute to these struggles. Additionally, the schools serve a student population with significant socioeconomic challenges, as evidenced by the high free/reduced lunch rates. Despite these hurdles, the schools spend well above the state average per student, raising questions about the efficient use of resources. Addressing the root causes of the academic and attendance issues, while ensuring funds are directed to the most impactful initiatives, could be key to unlocking better outcomes for students in Stafford.
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