Middle Schools in Utica Community Schools

The six middle schools in Utica Community Schools, serving grades 7-9 in Shelby Township, Sterling Heights, and Utica, Michigan, present a clear picture of academic disparity driven more by attendance and poverty challenges than by school spending.

Malow Junior High School is the district's standout performer, ranking in the 88th percentile statewide with exceptional math (49.9% proficiency) and science (61%) scores that far exceed state averages. Bemis Junior High School punches above its weight as a compact school serving only grades 7-8, achieving the district's highest ELA proficiency (53.4%) despite moderate poverty levels. Shelby Junior High School also performs well, with strong social studies (63.4%) and science (54.8%) scores. At the other end, Frank Jeannette Junior High School struggles significantly—ranking in the 46th percentile with a 2-star rating, a 34% chronic absenteeism rate (double the district average), and the highest poverty concentration at 77%. Eppler Junior High School and Davis Junior High School fall in the middle, with Eppler showing surprising strength in social studies (65.9%, best in district) but weak math scores, while Davis struggles with 57% poverty and 22% absenteeism.

The most striking finding is that spending doesn't predict success—Eppler ($17,335/student) and Jeannette ($17,188/student) spend the most yet achieve the lowest results, while Malow spends the least ($13,683) and excels. Chronic absenteeism tracks closely with poverty and achievement, with a 20-point spread between Malow's 13.4% and Jeannette's 34%. Math remains the district's weakest subject, with only Malow exceeding 50% proficiency, and several schools falling below state averages on PSAT math—a concern for college readiness. Parents should note that 9th grade scores typically decline from 8th grade across all schools, suggesting the high school transition is challenging. For families prioritizing academics, Malow and Bemis offer the strongest outcomes, while Jeannette and Davis may require additional support and attendance interventions to help students succeed.