Summary:
The East China School District in Michigan is home to four elementary schools—Pine River Elementary School, Palms Elementary School, Belle River Elementary School, and Saint Clair River Elementary—serving roughly 1,276 students in grades PK/K through 5th. The district earns a 4-star rating and ranks in the 74th percentile statewide, with all schools performing well above Michigan averages in most subjects.
Pine River Elementary School is the clear academic leader, ranking 250th in the state (83rd percentile) with consistent 4-star ratings and top scores in every grade—especially 3rd-grade ELA at 67.3% proficiency. Palms Elementary School is the rising star, jumping 268 spots over two years to reach the 80th percentile, while doing so with the lowest per-student spending ($13,033). Belle River Elementary School shows the most dramatic improvement (58th to 71st percentile) despite having the highest economic disadvantage rate (53%) and highest chronic absenteeism (22.5%)—a paradox suggesting effective interventions. Saint Clair River Elementary is the only school with a declining trend and a 3-star rating, with particularly weak 5th-grade math (26.6% proficiency).
Chronic absenteeism strongly tracks performance: Pine River has the lowest rate (12.2%) and best outcomes, while Belle River has the highest (22.5%) and lowest ranking—though all schools beat the state average of 27.9%. Science and social studies scores exceed state averages across the board, with Pine River hitting 59.4% science proficiency. For parents, Pine River and Palms offer the strongest academics, while Belle River is worth watching for its rapid gains. Saint Clair River may need extra support, especially in upper-grade math.
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