New Bedford

The New Bedford school district in Massachusetts consists of 24 schools, including 18 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 3 high schools. The district serves a diverse student population with varying academic performance across the schools. While some standout elementary schools like William H Taylor Elementary, Casimir Pulaski Elementary, and Elizabeth Carter Brooks Elementary demonstrate high proficiency rates, the secondary schools appear to be struggling, with low test scores and high dropout rates at Whaling City Junior/Senior High School and Trinity Day Academy.

Key metrics across the district reveal significant performance gaps, with graduation rates ranging from 81.2% at New Bedford High School to just 52.9% at Trinity Day Academy. Proficiency rates on state assessments also vary widely, with 10th grade English Language Arts proficiency at 25.34% at New Bedford High compared to 0% at Whaling City Junior/Senior High and Trinity Day Academy. Per-student spending ranges from $15,244 at John B Devalles Elementary to $29,708 at Trinity Day Academy, indicating that funding alone does not guarantee strong academic performance.

Overall, the New Bedford school district faces significant challenges in providing equitable educational opportunities and outcomes across its diverse student population. Addressing the disparities, particularly at the secondary level, will likely require a comprehensive approach targeting curriculum, instruction, and support services.