Summary:
The city of Decatur, Mississippi is home to two schools: Newton County Elementary School and Newton County High School, both part of the Newton County School District. While Newton County Elementary School stands out as a high-performing institution, Newton County High School faces some challenges that warrant further attention.
Newton County Elementary School is a standout performer, consistently ranking among the top elementary schools in Mississippi. The school's test scores significantly exceed state averages in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science for grades 3-6, and it holds a 4-star rating from SchoolDigger, indicating it is performing well above average. In contrast, Newton County High School has seen a decline in its statewide ranking over the past few years, from 60th out of 226 schools in 2022-2023 to 95th out of 232 schools in 2024-2025. The high school's test scores are mixed, with some subjects performing well above the state average and others closer to the state average, suggesting the need for a closer examination of curriculum and instructional practices.
Both schools face socioeconomic challenges, with a significant percentage of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch. This factor may contribute to the challenges faced by the high school and should be considered in any efforts to improve student outcomes. Additionally, both schools have a high chronic absenteeism rate of 23.9%, which is an area of concern and may require targeted interventions to address.
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