Willow Creek Elementary

The Willow Creek Elementary district in Montana consists of two schools: Willow Creek School, an elementary school, and Willow Creek 7-8, a middle school. While both schools have similar spending per student and student-teacher ratios, the middle school, Willow Creek 7-8, significantly outperforms the elementary school across multiple metrics.

Willow Creek 7-8 has a higher statewide ranking, receiving a 4-star rating and ranking 29th out of 123 Montana middle schools, compared to the elementary school's 1-star rating and 182nd ranking out of 212 elementary schools. The middle school also boasts much stronger academic performance, with 41.67% of its students proficient or better in math and 58.33% in reading, compared to just 12.5% and 31.25% at the elementary school, respectively. Additionally, the middle school has a lower percentage of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch, at 25%, compared to 8.82% at the elementary school.

The significant performance gap between the two schools within the same district raises questions about the factors contributing to the middle school's success and the challenges facing the elementary school. Given the small enrollment numbers, especially at the middle school with only 12 students, the district may be facing broader challenges common to small, rural school systems in Montana. Understanding and addressing these disparities could help ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students in the Willow Creek Elementary district.