Edward Duke Ellington at Beckham

Edward Duke Ellington at Beckham is a pre-K through 8th grade school in Detroit, MI, serving 560 students within the Detroit Public Schools Community District, where over 90% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.

This school faces significant challenges, with state test scores well below averages and a chronic absenteeism rate of 76%—nearly three times the state rate and much higher than nearby Pulaski ElementaryMiddle School, which has a similar student population but a 29% absenteeism rate. That difference in attendance likely explains much of the gap in academic outcomes between the two schools. There are a few bright spots worth noting: 8th graders scored at the district average in ELA on the PSAT (32%), and 3rd grade reading improved to 16.7% proficiency—the highest among nearby schools like Ronald Brown Academy (7%) and Brenda Scott Academy for Theatre Arts (12.3%). The school also showed a relative strength in 8th grade social studies, matching the district average and far exceeding several neighbors.

However, math proficiency in 8th grade sits at just 8%, and the school spends a substantial $20,345 per student—more than higher-performing nearby charters like Regent Park Scholars Charter Academy ($14,100) and Barack Obama Leadership Academy ($15,422)—without corresponding results. For parents, the most important takeaway is that attendance is the single biggest factor holding this school back. If your child attends regularly, they may benefit from small pockets of instructional strength, but you'll want to supplement math learning and stay closely engaged with teachers to ensure your child doesn't fall behind.