Summary
Milam Elementary in McAllen, TX, is a large, high-performing elementary school serving 811 students in grades PK-5 within the McAllen Independent School District (Isd), known for its consistent academic excellence and a moderate poverty rate that sets it apart from many nearby schools.
Milam stands out for its sustained top-tier performance, historically ranking in the top 10-16% of Texas elementary schools, even as some neighboring schools fluctuate. For example, while Gonzalez Elementary and Rayburn Elementary also perform well, others like Wilson Elementary and Seguin Elementary rank in the bottom half of the state. Milam achieves its high rankings with 53.4% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch, a moderate poverty rate that is significantly lower than many district peers. This success is particularly notable when compared to its closest neighbor, Jackson Elementary, which has a 92% poverty rate and ranks in the 62nd percentile—Milam outperforms Jackson in every grade and subject tested, often by 10-20 percentage points. The school also excels in Math and Science, with 5th-grade Math proficiency at 66.37% versus the district average of 52.12%, and it is exceptionally effective with its Hispanic student population, who rank in the 92nd percentile statewide.
Interestingly, Milam’s success is not driven by higher spending; its per-student spending of $10,040 is lower than several lower-performing schools like Alvarez Elementary ($13,224) and McAuliffe Elementary ($12,360), suggesting effective resource management and strong instructional quality. However, the school has seen a notable dip in support for low-income students, dropping from the 95th to the 80th percentile in recent years, and its English Language Learner program is only average (54th percentile), indicating areas for growth. Overall, Milam offers a robust, well-rounded education with a clear STEM advantage, making it a standout choice in the McAllen area.
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