Summary:
The city of Calais, Maine is home to two public schools: Calais Middle/High School and Calais Elementary School. While the schools serve different grade levels, the data reveals some notable differences and challenges facing the Calais Public Schools district.
Calais Elementary School has seen a significant decline in its state-wide ranking, dropping from 43rd out of 210 Maine elementary schools in 2021-2022 to 160th out of 290 in 2022-2023. In contrast, Calais Middle/High School has consistently ranked in the bottom quarter of Maine high schools, maintaining a 1-star rating from SchoolDigger over the past several years. The racial makeup of the schools also differs, with Calais Middle/High School serving a more diverse student population compared to the predominantly white student body at Calais Elementary.
Both schools face challenges, such as high chronic absenteeism rates and economic disparities. Calais Elementary School has a significantly higher percentage of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch, suggesting a higher level of economic disadvantage among the elementary school population. Addressing these issues, as well as identifying the root causes behind the performance gaps, will be crucial for the Calais Public Schools district to improve educational outcomes for all students, regardless of their background.
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