Best Public Schools in Zip Code 66049

The 66049 zip code area in Kansas is home to 6 schools, including 4 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 1 high school. These schools serve a diverse student population and demonstrate a range of academic performance, with some standout institutions and others facing unique challenges.

Lawrence Free State High is the lone high school in the area, ranking in the top 15% of Kansas high schools with a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger and a high 4-year graduation rate of 89.5%. In contrast, the middle school, Lawrence West, has a 1.3% dropout rate, which is on par with the high school. Among the elementary schools, Langston Hughes Elementary stands out as a top performer, consistently ranking among the best in the state with exceptional test scores and a relatively low percentage of free/reduced lunch recipients. In contrast, Sunset Hill Elementary has the lowest test scores and the highest percentage of free/reduced lunch recipients, indicating potential challenges in serving a more economically disadvantaged student population.

The data reveals a significant gap in performance between the top-performing schools and the lower-performing ones, suggesting that factors beyond just funding and resources may be contributing to the differences in student outcomes. The transition from elementary to middle school also appears to be a critical point, with a noticeable dip in test scores, particularly in Mathematics. Overall, the schools in the 66049 zip code area present a diverse landscape, with both high-achieving institutions and those facing unique challenges, underscoring the importance of targeted support and interventions to ensure the success of all students.