Summary:
The middle schools in Ocala, Florida, serve a diverse student population across 6 schools, including a mix of public and public charter institutions. While the overall Marion school district faces challenges, with a ranking of 61 out of 68 districts in the state and a 1-star rating, a few standout schools in Ocala are worth highlighting.
Osceola Middle School emerges as the top performer, ranking #462 out of 1,196 middle schools in Florida and earning a 3-star rating. It boasts the lowest chronic absenteeism rate at 25.1% and strong test scores, particularly in math and Algebra/Geometry. In contrast, other schools in the area, such as Fort King Middle School, struggle with higher chronic absenteeism rates, up to 41.5%, and lower academic achievement. The data suggests a correlation between socioeconomic factors, like the percentage of students qualifying for free/reduced lunch, and school performance.
While most Ocala middle schools face significant challenges, Horizon Academy at Marion Oaks stands out with impressive Algebra 1 and Geometry end-of-course exam results, far exceeding district and state averages. The presence of a public charter school option, Ocali Charter Middle School, also indicates that families in Ocala are seeking alternative educational opportunities beyond the traditional public school system. Understanding the factors contributing to the success of the top-performing schools could provide valuable insights for improving educational outcomes across the Marion school district.
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