Okeechobee

The Okeechobee school district in Florida consists of 11 schools, including 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, 2 high schools, and 2 alternative schools. The district serves a diverse student population, with a significant percentage of students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Among the standout schools in the district, Okeechobee High School stands out for its large student population of 1,692, but it has a relatively low 2-star rating and a below-average four-year graduation rate of 78.2%. In contrast, Yearling Middle School excels in Algebra 1 and Civics proficiency, with rates of 93% and 65%, respectively, outperforming the district and state averages. The Okeechobee Virtual Franchise, an alternative virtual school, boasts a high four-year graduation rate of 78.6% and a remarkable 0% chronic absenteeism rate.

Across the Okeechobee district, there are significant disparities in academic performance, with some schools consistently outperforming others on test scores and graduation rates. Chronic absenteeism is a significant challenge, with rates ranging from 43% to 60.5%, indicating the need for targeted interventions. The success of the Okeechobee Virtual Franchise, however, suggests that the virtual learning model may be an effective option for some students in the district, and further exploration of this model could provide valuable insights.