Best Public Schools in Great Mills, MD

The city of Great Mills, Maryland, is home to three public schools within the St. Mary's County Public Schools district, serving students from elementary through high school in a community where academic performance varies significantly between schools.

Greenview Knolls Elementary stands out as the strongest performer in the city, earning a 3-star rating and consistently ranking in the 43rd to 51st percentile statewide. It leads in elementary math proficiency (26.9%) and has the lowest chronic absenteeism rate (25.1%) among all city schools. In contrast, George Washington Carver Elementary faces significant challenges, with the highest rate of students from low-income families (76.3% free/reduced lunch), the lowest state ranking (26th percentile), and academic scores well below district averages in both English Language Arts (33.5%) and math (12.7%). Despite nearly identical spending per student (around $24,000), Greenview Knolls significantly outperforms George Washington Carver, highlighting that factors beyond funding drive success. Great Mills High presents a unique paradox: while overall math proficiency is low (17.5%), an extraordinary 79.4% of students are proficient in advanced Algebra II, far exceeding state averages. However, the high school also struggles with a 39.7% chronic absenteeism rate and a 13.9% dropout rate, both well above district norms.

Chronic absenteeism is a city-wide crisis, particularly at Great Mills High (39.7%) and George Washington Carver Elementary (32.8%), and is likely a major contributor to low test scores and high dropout rates. The elementary performance gap is stark, with Greenview Knolls serving as a solid mid-performing school while George Washington Carver struggles despite high spending. For parents, this data suggests that school choice within Great Mills matters greatly, with Greenview Knolls offering the strongest elementary foundation, while Great Mills High provides exceptional opportunities for advanced math students but requires attention to attendance and overall academic support for the broader student body.