Summary:
The 65013 zip code area is home to two schools - Belle Elementary and Belle High, both part of the Maries County R-II school district. While the schools have relatively low student-teacher ratios, they are facing significant challenges, including declining performance rankings, low test scores, and high rates of chronic absenteeism and economic disadvantage among their student populations.
Belle Elementary has seen a concerning drop in its statewide ranking, falling from the 238th best elementary school in Missouri in 2022-2023 to the 490th best in 2024-2025. Similarly, Belle High has also experienced a significant decline, dropping from the 163rd best high school in 2018-2019 to the 273rd best in 2024-2025. This suggests the schools are struggling to keep up with their peers across the state.
Both schools face challenges related to academic performance, with test scores in math and English language arts generally below the state averages. Additionally, the schools have high rates of free/reduced lunch eligibility, indicating a student population facing significant economic challenges. Chronic absenteeism is also a concern, with both schools reporting rates well above the state average. While the schools' low student-teacher ratios could be leveraged to provide more individualized attention, addressing the broader issues of academic performance, attendance, and socioeconomic factors will likely require a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach.
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