Summary:
The 50703 zip code area of Waterloo, Iowa is home to 6 schools serving students from elementary through high school, including 3 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 2 high schools. While the schools in this area face significant challenges related to poverty and academic achievement, a few standout institutions demonstrate the potential for success with the right resources and strategies.
Highland Elementary School and Lincoln Elementary School stand out for their relatively strong performance on state assessments, with 50-74% of students proficient in Math and 50-65% proficient in English Language Arts. These schools also have lower student-teacher ratios, suggesting they may be able to provide more individualized attention. In contrast, Expo Alternative Learning Center faces unique challenges as an alternative high school, with the lowest test scores but serving a high-needs population.
Across the board, the schools in this zip code perform below the state average on standardized tests, with significant achievement gaps. However, the data also reveals high poverty levels, with all schools having free/reduced lunch rates above 73%. Despite these challenges, Waterloo Community School District is investing in these schools, with spending per student ranging from $12,711 to $15,126, all above the state average. Understanding the factors that contribute to the relative success of Highland and Lincoln Elementary could provide valuable insights for improving academic outcomes across the district.
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