Summary:
In zip code 21655, there is one elementary school, Preston Elementary School, serving grades PK through 5 in Preston, MD, as part of the Caroline County Public Schools district.
Preston Elementary School is a standout academic performer, particularly given that 60.1% of its 381 students come from low-income households. The school consistently outperforms both district and state averages in key subjects. In Mathematics, 45.8% of all students are proficient, nearly double the district average of 23.7% and well above the state average of 27.1%. Science scores are also exceptional, with 42.6% of 5th graders proficient compared to just 25.3% in the district and 32.4% statewide. English Language Arts proficiency sits at 53.1%, slightly above the state average of 51.7%. The school has earned a 3-star rating and has improved its state ranking over three consecutive years, now placing in the 68th percentile (277th out of 864 Maryland elementary schools).
While chronic absenteeism is a concern at 21.4%, it is notably better than the district average of 28.0%. The school benefits from a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13.6:1 and spends $20,066 per student. Mathematics is a clear strength, with 3rd graders achieving 55.4% proficiency versus 42.6% statewide. The school's overall positive trajectory, despite a slight dip in math scores from the previous year, suggests effective teaching and strong leadership are successfully closing achievement gaps in this high-poverty community.
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