Summary:
In zip code 79124 (Amarillo, TX), two middle schools—Lorenzo De Zavala Middle (grades 5-8) and Bushland J H (grades 6-8)—offer distinct academic strengths within different districts, providing parents with clear choices based on their priorities.
Lorenzo De Zavala Middle, part of Amarillo Independent School District (Isd), excels in advanced mathematics, with 100% of its Algebra I students proficient in 2025-2026—far exceeding the state average of 54%. However, it faces a notable challenge: only 24% of its 7th graders were proficient in math that year, a sharp drop from its 6th and 8th grade scores. The school serves a higher percentage of economically disadvantaged students (31% free/reduced lunch) and spends $10,222 per student, yet its overall state ranking (90th percentile) is slightly below its peer. In contrast, Bushland J H, in Bushland Independent School District (Isd), delivers consistent, balanced performance across all subjects, with a 0% dropout rate and a low student-teacher ratio of 11.4:1. It ranks 97th out of 951 Texas middle schools, outperforming Lorenzo De Zavala in overall math proficiency (55% vs. 51%) and general consistency.
Both schools significantly outperform their districts and state averages in reading and math. For instance, Lorenzo De Zavala’s average reading proficiency (82%) is 46% higher than the state average (56%), while Bushland J H’s math proficiency (55%) is 34% higher. Despite spending $1,431 less per student, Bushland J H achieves higher overall rankings and more uniform results, suggesting its smaller class sizes and stable environment drive success. Parents should weigh Lorenzo De Zavala’s standout advanced math program against Bushland J H’s well-rounded excellence and low student-teacher ratio when choosing a school in this area.
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