Summary:
The city of Steele, Missouri is home to 3 schools serving students from elementary through high school, all part of the South Pemiscot County R-V school district. Despite the district's efforts, the data paints a concerning picture, with all 3 schools - Central Elementary, South Pemiscot High, and East Elementary - struggling with low test scores, poor rankings, and high poverty levels.
The most alarming trend is the consistently low academic performance across the district. All 3 schools have test scores that fall well below state averages in both math and English language arts, with proficiency rates ranging from just 7.3% to 32.6%. This is reflected in the schools' dismal statewide rankings, with Central Elementary and South Pemiscot High ranking in the bottom 22% and 29% of Missouri schools, respectively. The high poverty levels, with 100% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, likely contribute to these challenges and must be addressed.
Funding disparities may also play a role, as the spending per student varies significantly between the schools, with East Elementary receiving nearly $4,500 less per student than Central Elementary. Additionally, the lack of a middle school in the district could be a gap that impacts student transitions and learning continuity. Addressing these systemic issues will require a comprehensive, data-driven approach to improve educational outcomes for the students in the Steele community.
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