Middle Schools in Gadsden

The middle schools in Gadsden, Florida are struggling, with both James A. Shanks Middle School and West Gadsden Middle School performing well below state and district averages. These schools serve predominantly minority and economically disadvantaged student populations, facing significant challenges with low test scores, high chronic absenteeism, and poor overall rankings compared to other middle schools in Florida.

Both James A. Shanks Middle School and West Gadsden Middle School are ranked in the bottom 10-15% of middle schools in the state, with proficiency rates well below average across various subjects and grade levels. Chronic absenteeism is a major issue, with nearly half of the students at each school classified as chronically absent. The schools also have very high rates of free and reduced-price lunch recipients, indicating that the student population faces significant socioeconomic challenges.

While the two middle schools in Gadsden have some differences, such as West Gadsden having a more diverse student population and lower student-teacher ratio, the overall picture is one of struggling schools that need significant support and intervention. Addressing the systemic challenges, socioeconomic factors, racial disparities, and resource allocation within the Gadsden school district should be a top priority to improve educational outcomes for the students in this community.