Summary:
The 11 high schools in Waco, Texas, serve approximately 8,624 students across grades 9-12, encompassing a diverse mix of traditional public schools, charter schools, and specialized campuses within districts like Midway Independent School District (Isd) and Waco Independent School District (Isd).
Midway High School stands out as the top performer, ranking in the 89th percentile statewide with a 97.3% graduation rate and the lowest dropout rate (0.1%). In contrast, Waco High School faces significant challenges, with a 75.4% graduation rate and a 4.0% dropout rate, ranking in the bottom 13% of Texas schools. Paul And Jane Meyer Public High School is a standout charter, achieving a 97.7% graduation rate despite over half its students being economically disadvantaged. Meanwhile, Waco Center For Youth spends the most per student ($27,156) but serves a specialized residential population with low academic scores, while Premier H S Of Waco struggles with a 77.8% graduation rate and very low test scores.
Key metrics reveal an average graduation rate of 89.7% and an average free/reduced lunch rate of 60.8%, highlighting widespread economic need. Algebra I is the weakest subject citywide, with only Midway High School and Paul And Jane Meyer Public High School meeting state averages. Schools like La Vega High School and Connally High School maintain graduation rates near 90% but fall 10-30 points below state proficiency benchmarks. The data shows that higher spending does not guarantee success, as Midway High School achieves top results with modest per-student spending ($9,293), while Waco High School and University High School struggle despite higher funding levels.
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