Best Middle Schools in Miami, FL

The city of Miami, Florida is home to 39 middle schools serving grades 6-8, a mix of public and public charter schools. The data reveals a clear divide between the highest-performing and lowest-performing schools in the area. The top charter schools, such as Archimedean Middle Conservatory, International Studies Charter Middle School, and Somerset Academy Bay Middle School, consistently rank among the best in Florida, with exceptional test scores and low chronic absenteeism rates. In contrast, some of the traditional public schools, like Herbert A. Ammons Middle School, also stand out as high-performers, indicating that quality education is possible across school types.

However, the data also highlights significant challenges facing many of the middle schools in Miami. Chronic absenteeism rates vary widely, with some schools reporting over 70% of students chronically absent, which likely has a negative impact on student learning and achievement. There is also a clear correlation between higher free/reduced lunch rates and lower performance, suggesting that socioeconomic factors play a major role in student outcomes. The range in per-student spending, from around $8,200 to $24,500, does not necessarily translate to better performance, as some of the highest-spending schools are among the lowest-performing.

Overall, the data on middle schools in Miami-Dade County provides a nuanced picture of the educational landscape, highlighting both the strengths and challenges facing these institutions. The standout charter schools demonstrate that high-quality education is possible, while the lower-performing schools indicate the need for continued improvement and support to ensure all students in Miami have access to a quality education.