Summary:
The Highlands district of Florida is home to 11 elementary schools serving students from pre-K through 5th grade. These schools vary significantly in their academic performance, student demographics, and resource levels, with some standout high-performers and others struggling to meet state standards.
At the top of the pack is Park Elementary School, which ranks 602 out of 2,256 Florida elementary schools and earns a 4-star rating. It boasts strong test scores, with 74% of 3rd graders proficient in ELA and 81% proficient in Math. Sun 'n Lake Elementary School and Cracker Trail Elementary School also stand out with high rankings and solid academic performance. In contrast, several schools like Fred Wild Elementary and Avon Elementary struggle with very low test scores and high chronic absenteeism rates.
The data reveals a strong correlation between socioeconomic status and academic outcomes in the Highlands district. Schools with the highest percentages of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, like Fred Wild Elementary at 86.68%, tend to have the lowest rankings and test scores. Addressing these disparities and ensuring equitable resources and support for all students will be crucial for improving educational opportunities across the district.
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