Summary:
Zip code 29924 in Hampton, South Carolina, is served by two schools within the Hampton school district, which ranks in the 31st percentile statewide, and notably lacks a high school, requiring students to travel outside the area for grades 7-12.
For parents, the two schools present distinct profiles. Ben Hazel Primary (PK-3) is a standout in English Language Arts, with 4th grade ELA proficiency at 77.2%, a remarkable 12.5 points above the state average, and its overall ranking (47th percentile) far exceeds the district's. However, it struggles significantly in math, with 4th grade proficiency at just 34.3% (18 points below the state), and it also has a higher chronic absenteeism rate (25.2%) and a larger student-teacher ratio (13.4:1). In contrast, Hampton Elementary (grades 4-6) offers a more balanced, though still challenging, picture. Its 5th grade ELA (63.4%) nearly matches the state average, and it boasts a lower chronic absenteeism rate (17.5%) and a better student-teacher ratio (10:1). Yet, its math scores are also weak, with 5th grade proficiency at 30.5%, and it shows a concerning decline in 5th grade math year-over-year.
The most critical takeaway is a systemic math problem across both schools, highlighted by a dramatic "4th grade cliff" where proficiency drops by nearly 20 points from 3rd to 4th grade. While Ben Hazel Primary spends more per student ($18,301) than Hampton Elementary ($17,643), this higher spending does not translate to better math outcomes or lower absenteeism, suggesting resource allocation is key. The district's low ranking masks pockets of excellence, particularly in literacy, but the absence of a local high school adds a transition challenge after 6th grade. Parents should investigate math curriculum alignment and consider how the differing strengths—Ben Hazel's ELA excellence versus Hampton Elementary's better attendance and smaller classes—align with their child's needs.
Thank you for your feedback!