Best Public Schools in Madras, OR

The city of Madras, Oregon is home to 7 schools in the Jefferson County School District 509J, including 4 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 2 high schools. The schools in this district face significant challenges, with high rates of economic disadvantage and chronic absenteeism across the board.

Among the standout schools, Buff Elementary School consistently performs above the district and state averages on standardized tests, earning 3 out of 5 stars from SchoolDigger. In contrast, Bridges High School, an alternative high school, ranks in the bottom 10 high schools in the state, though it maintains a respectable 81.8% four-year graduation rate. The district's graduation rates, ranging from 81.8% to 81.8%, are slightly below the state average.

Across the schools, chronic absenteeism rates are alarmingly high, ranging from 34.3% to 34.3%, significantly higher than the state average. Additionally, the schools have very high percentages of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch, indicating a high level of economic disadvantage in the Madras community. Spending per student also varies widely, from $19,701 at Madras High School to $37,019 at Bridges High School, raising questions about potential funding inequities within the district.