Manistee Area Public Schools

The Manistee Area Public Schools district in Michigan consists of 3 schools: 2 elementary schools (John F. Kennedy Elementary and Thomas Jefferson Elementary) and 1 middle/high school (Manistee Middle High School). The data reveals that Manistee Middle High School is the standout performer, with a high state ranking, above-average test scores, and a relatively strong 4-year graduation rate.

In contrast, Thomas Jefferson Elementary School has seen a dramatic decline in its state ranking, dropping from a top 100 school in the late 2000s to now ranking in the bottom third of Michigan elementary schools. This concerning trend warrants further investigation. Additionally, all three schools in the district have relatively high chronic absenteeism rates, ranging from 32.8% to 41.8%, which is an area that the district may want to focus on to improve student engagement and academic outcomes.

The racial makeup of the schools is relatively homogeneous, with White students making up 85-88% of the student population. The two elementary schools also serve a more economically disadvantaged population, with 60.22% and 62.55% of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch, compared to 50.22% at the middle/high school. Increasing racial diversity and addressing economic disparities could be goals for the district to better reflect the broader community and ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students.