Summary:
This analysis examines three middle schools (grades 6-8) located in zip code 99206, which serves the Spokane Valley area, all of which are part of the Central Valley School District.
Parents will find a significant difference in performance among these schools. Horizon Middle School stands out as a top-performing school in the state, consistently exceeding both district and state averages in English, math, and science. In contrast, North Pines Middle School and Bowdish Middle School have historically ranked in the lower quartile of Washington middle schools, with proficiency rates well below these same benchmarks.
The district itself is rated above average statewide, yet this zip code contains both its highest and some of its lowest-performing middle schools. A notable pattern across all three schools is a drop in math scores in 8th grade compared to earlier grades. Interestingly, higher per-student spending at the lower-performing schools does not correlate with better academic results, suggesting other factors are influencing student outcomes within this community.
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