Summary:
The city of Kismet, Kansas is home to two schools: Southwestern Heights Junior/Senior High and Kismet Elementary, both of which serve the Kismet-Plains school district. Unfortunately, the data paints a concerning picture, as neither school appears to be performing well compared to state averages.
Southwestern Heights Junior/Senior High is ranked in the bottom 10% of Kansas high schools, with a 0-star rating from SchoolDigger. The school has significantly lower proficiency rates in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science compared to the state averages. For example, in 2023-2024, only 8.1% of 10th-grade students were proficient or better in ELA, compared to the state average of 27.57%. Kismet Elementary has also seen a decline in its statewide ranking, dropping from the top 30% of Kansas elementary schools in 2010-2011 to the bottom 30% in recent years.
Both schools have high rates of free and reduced-price lunch recipients, with over 70% of students qualifying for this program, suggesting significant socioeconomic challenges in the Kismet community. While the schools are spending around $14,200 per student, which is slightly higher than the state average, the student-teacher ratios are relatively high, indicating that the resources may not be effectively allocated to support student learning. To address these issues, the Kismet-Plains school district should consider implementing targeted interventions and support programs to help improve student outcomes.
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