Summary:
The 12 schools in the Landover, MD zip code 20785, all part of the Prince George's County Public Schools district, serve a predominantly elementary-aged population (nine elementary schools, including two K-8 schools, two middle schools, and one high school) and face significant academic challenges, though a few standout institutions offer bright spots for families.
For parents seeking top academic performance, Thomas G. Pullen and Judith P. Hoyer Montessori are clear leaders. Thomas G. Pullen boasts the highest Math (33.1%) and English Language Arts (68.7%) proficiency rates in the area, while Judith P. Hoyer Montessori also excels with a 61.3% ELA proficiency and a remarkably low chronic absenteeism rate of just 7.5%—far below the area average of 30.1%. In contrast, Highland Park Elementary and Templeton Elementary are the lowest-ranked schools, with Math proficiency rates below 9% and ELA rates under 19%. The area's only high school, Fairmont Heights High, faces severe challenges, including a 3.7% Math proficiency rate and a 46.3% chronic absenteeism rate, the highest in the zip code.
Middle schools show more promise, with Kenmoor Middle ranking in the 58th percentile statewide and demonstrating a clear upward trend, while G. James Gholson Middle has also improved from the 5th to the 21st percentile over three years. Notably, Cora L. Rice Elementary shows dramatic improvement, jumping from the 17th to the 31st percentile. However, higher spending does not guarantee better results—Highland Park Elementary spends the most per student ($22,371) yet ranks lowest, while Thomas G. Pullen spends less ($18,157) and achieves the best outcomes. Overall, the area's high economic disadvantage (86.5% free/reduced lunch average) strongly correlates with academic struggles, making the Montessori model at Judith P. Hoyer a standout example of success despite these challenges.
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