Summary:
Zip code 39322 is served by a single school, Buckatunna School, a PK–8 elementary school with 418 students in the Wayne County School District. Nearly all students (99.28%) qualify for free/reduced lunch, placing the school in a very high-poverty category, yet the school maintains a remarkably low chronic absenteeism rate of 11.8% — less than half the statewide rate of 23.9%.
Academically, Buckatunna School shows clear bright spots. In 2025–2026, 7th grade math proficiency reached 57.1%, nearly matching the state average of 57.7% and far exceeding the district's 39.9%. Seventh grade ELA also exceeded the state (40% vs. 36.7%), and 4th grade ELA (54.1%) topped both district and state averages. Overall ELA proficiency jumped from 37.0% to 45.2% between 2024–2025 and 2025–2026, an 8.2-point gain. Science scores, though volatile, have remained competitive; 5th grade science hit 72.1% in 2024–2025, well above the district's 46.4%.
However, math remains a serious concern. Overall math proficiency fell from 46.0% to 37.8%, and 8th grade math dropped from 50% to 33.3% — a major red flag for students approaching high school. Third, 5th, and 8th grade math all trail the state by roughly 18–22 points. Science performance also fluctuated year to year. Still, the school's exceptional attendance, strong 7th grade results, and upward ELA trajectory suggest that despite high poverty, Buckatunna School has dedicated staff and areas of real success — though targeted math intervention, especially in 8th grade, is clearly needed.
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