Summary:
Zip code 70546 in Jennings, Louisiana, is home to three schools within the highly-rated Jefferson Davis Parish school district, serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade with a total enrollment of 2,317 students.
The most surprising finding is that Hathaway High School, an alternative school, is the academic powerhouse of the area. It leads all schools with 81% math proficiency and 77% ELA proficiency, far exceeding district averages of 72% in both subjects. This school also boasts the lowest chronic absenteeism rate (21.1%) and a 0% dropout rate. In stark contrast, Jennings High School faces a significant attendance crisis, with a 39.4% chronic absenteeism rate—nearly double the district average. Despite this, both high schools share remarkably high graduation rates (around 94%), well above the state average of 85%, creating a paradox where Jennings High graduates students despite high absenteeism and declining state rankings.
Jennings Elementary School serves as a stable, middle-of-the-road foundation for the community. As the largest school with 976 students and a high poverty rate (72.75% free/reduced lunch), its performance is generally on par with state averages but slightly below its own district averages. Its chronic absenteeism rate of 22.5% matches the state average, which is a positive indicator given its demographic challenges. Overall, the zip code presents a tale of two high schools—one alternative school that defies expectations and excels, and one traditional high school struggling with attendance—while the elementary school provides consistent, if not exceptional, education for younger students.
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