Summary:
Zip code 29128, serving the Rembert, SC area, contains three schools: two traditional public elementary schools and one specialized high school operated by the Dept Of Correction N04.
For parents seeking a traditional school environment, the two elementary schools present a stark contrast. West Lee Elementary stands out as the clear top performer, despite its small enrollment of 98 students. Its chronic absenteeism rate of just 3.7% is exceptionally low compared to the state average of 22.3% and its own district's average of 25.1% in Lee 01. This suggests a highly engaged student body and strong community support. West Lee also spends significantly more per student at $30,954, which is 54% higher than its local counterpart. In contrast, Rafting Creek Elementary in the Sumter 01 district is facing an academic emergency. The school has ranked in the bottom 1% of South Carolina elementary schools for two consecutive years. Its 4th-grade proficiency rates are critically low, with only 18.1% of students proficient in both Math and Science, compared to state averages above 50%. Rafting Creek also struggles with a 29.5% chronic absenteeism rate and lower per-student funding of $20,108.
The third school, Lewis High, is a correctional facility school with only 7 students and a 3.5:1 student-teacher ratio. It is not comparable to traditional schools and should be excluded from any academic comparisons. The data reveals a clear correlation between funding, attendance, and academic outcomes. West Lee's higher investment appears to foster a more supportive environment, leading to better attendance and a stronger foundation for learning. Meanwhile, Rafting Creek's lower funding and high absenteeism are likely contributing to its severe academic struggles. While both elementary schools are small and have high per-student costs, the difference in results is dramatic, making West Lee the clear choice for parents in this area.
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