Summary:
Zip code 21502 in Cumberland, Maryland, is served by two public middle schools, Washington Middle and Braddock Middle, both part of the Allegany County Public Schools district and serving grades 6 through 8.
Braddock Middle is the clear standout in this area, ranking in the top 25% of Maryland middle schools (76th percentile, 4 stars), while Washington Middle ranks in the bottom half (47th percentile, 2 stars). Braddock achieves proficiency rates that are double or triple those of Washington in core subjects like Math (34.9% vs. 16.1%) and Science (36.0% vs. 17.9%). The most dramatic difference is in advanced coursework: Braddock’s Geometry proficiency rate (88.2%) is nearly double the state average (44.5%), while Washington’s (50%) is above the district average but far behind. Braddock also has a lower chronic absenteeism rate (34.1% vs. 42.8% at Washington) and a lower rate of economic disadvantage (55% vs. 63% free/reduced lunch), yet it significantly outperforms state averages, suggesting effective teaching and school culture. Despite slightly higher per-student spending ($16,875 vs. $16,043), Washington Middle struggles to meet state averages, indicating that resource allocation and high absenteeism are key challenges.
For parents, the choice is clear: Braddock Middle offers a top-tier education within the district, with strong academic outcomes that defy its economic demographics. Washington Middle faces significant hurdles, particularly with over 42% of students chronically absent, which is a primary driver of its lower performance. Both schools serve similar enrollments (577 and 536 students) and have comparable student-teacher ratios (13.6:1 and 12.5:1), but Braddock’s consistent high ranking and exceptional advanced math results make it the standout choice in this zip code.
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