Summary:
Comstock Park Public Schools operates two elementary schools in a suburban Michigan area, serving roughly 811 students in grades K-5 through a feeder pattern where Stoney Creek Elementary (K-2) transitions into Pine Island Elementary (3-5). Both schools serve predominantly economically disadvantaged populations, with over half of students eligible for free or reduced lunch, and the district holds a 3-star rating (61st percentile statewide).
When comparing the two schools, the most striking difference is spending: Stoney Creek spends $28,242 per student versus $18,105 at Pine Island—a 56% premium that does not translate into better attendance outcomes. Stoney Creek’s chronic absenteeism rate is 24.4%, well above Pine Island’s 17.9%, despite the higher investment. Both schools stay below the state average of 27.9%, but Pine Island’s rate is notably strong. Student-teacher ratios are similar and favorable at both schools (14.4:1 and 13.8:1), so families can expect relatively small class sizes regardless of which building their child attends.
Academically, Pine Island shows a concerning pattern: between 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, it declined in 8 of 10 subject-grade combinations, with its state ranking slipping from the 48th to 44th percentile. The only bright spot is 4th grade, where ELA proficiency jumped from 37.4% to 50.7% (now above the state average) and math improved by 5.9 points. However, 5th grade social studies is a critical weakness—just 13.9% proficient versus the 27.5% state average—and math proficiency steadily drops from 38.3% in 3rd grade to 30.2% in 5th grade, suggesting foundational gaps that compound over time. Since Stoney Creek feeds directly into Pine Island, the higher absenteeism in early grades may carry forward, potentially explaining some of these later academic struggles. Parents should watch for targeted support in math and social studies as their child progresses through the district.
Thank you for your feedback!