Summary:
Zip code 21622 is home to a single school, South Dorchester School, a public elementary and middle school serving grades Pre-K through 8th grade with 230 students. This school stands out as a high-performing institution within the Dorchester County Public Schools district, which is ranked among the lowest in the state. South Dorchester School consistently earns a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger, a remarkable achievement given its district's 1-star rating, and it serves as a clear academic anchor for the area.
Academically, South Dorchester School significantly outperforms both its district and the state of Maryland. In the 2025-2026 school year, the school achieved a 65.4% proficiency rate in English Language Arts and a 40.4% proficiency rate in Mathematics, compared to district averages of 37.5% and 16.3%, respectively. A standout metric is the 80% proficiency rate in Algebra I, which is nearly four times the district and state averages. The school also boasts a low chronic absenteeism rate of 16.2%, less than half the district's rate of 37.1%, and maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio of 14.3:1 with a spending per student of $19,962.
Key takeaways for parents include the school's consistent and improving performance, with its state ranking moving from the 81st percentile to the 71st percentile in recent years. English Language Arts is a core strength, with proficiency rates above 50% in every tested grade and peaking at 72.7% in 7th grade. The exceptional Algebra I results suggest a highly effective program for advanced math students. Overall, South Dorchester School provides a healthy, effective learning environment that overcomes broader district challenges, making it a standout choice for families in the 21622 zip code.
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