Best High Schools in Zip Code 48061

Zip code 48061, encompassing the Port Huron area, is served by a single high school, Blue Water Middle College Academy, a small, specialized institution within the Blue Water Middle College district that offers a unique early college model for its roughly 205 students.

For parents, this school presents a distinctive profile that blends exceptional academic achievement with an unconventional graduation timeline. The school is a top performer in the state, with its district ranked in the 96th percentile and earning a 5-star rating. Academically, students far surpass state averages on key assessments: 76.5% are proficient in SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (compared to the 52.1% state average), 57.14% are proficient in Social Studies, and 50% are proficient in Science. This points to a rigorous, college-preparatory environment, further supported by a favorable 11.8 student-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention. However, the four-year graduation rate is notably low at 64.9%, well below the state's 84.0%. This is likely a reflection of the "middle college" model, where students extend their high school years to earn college credits, rather than a sign of students leaving the school—the dropout rate is an impressive 0.0%.

The key takeaway is that this is not a traditional high school. Its mission is to prepare students for post-secondary success, and the data suggests it excels at that goal. The high test scores, particularly in college-readiness metrics, and the zero dropout rate indicate a committed student body thriving in a focused, small-school setting. While the low four-year graduation rate may be a concern for some, it should be interpreted within the context of the school's specialized dual-enrollment program, where a longer path to a diploma is by design. With a relatively low percentage of economically disadvantaged students (21.95%) and per-student spending of $9,154, the school serves a specific demographic seeking an accelerated, college-focused academic experience.