Schools in Zip Code 49045

Zip code 49045, encompassing the Decatur area in Michigan, is served by two schools within the Decatur Public Schools district, which together educate 755 students across grades K-12 in a predominantly rural, economically diverse community.

For families, the standout choice is Davis Elementary School, which has shown it can achieve excellence, particularly in 5th grade science where proficiency hit 61.3% in 2024-2025—a remarkable 21 points above the state average. However, its performance has been volatile, dropping significantly in the following year across most subjects. In contrast, Decatur Junior Senior High School offers a more stable, though generally below-average, academic profile, with its strongest showing in 8th grade ELA (64.6% proficiency in 2024-2025) and 11th grade social studies. The most notable difference between the two schools is in graduation outcomes: the high school boasts a 92.3% graduation rate and a 0.0% dropout rate, both far exceeding state averages, even as its test scores lag.

A key takeaway for parents is the persistent math achievement gap at both schools. From elementary PSAT scores (as low as 13.1% proficiency) to SAT math (18.6% vs. 27.5% statewide), math consistently trails ELA by wide margins. Despite this, both schools keep chronic absenteeism below the state average (19.8-24.5% vs. 27.9%), which is notable given that 58-64% of students qualify for free/reduced lunch. The district also spends generously—between $17,322 and $19,130 per student—yet outcomes remain mixed, suggesting resources may not be fully translating into test score gains. Overall, while academic performance fluctuates and math remains a challenge, the district’s strong graduation rates and attendance suggest a supportive environment that helps students persist through challenges.