Malden R-I

The Malden R-I school district in Missouri operates two schools: Malden Lower Elementary (grades PK-5) and Malden High (grades 6-12). Both schools serve a student population that is predominantly white and African American, with high rates of economic disadvantage, as indicated by the 100% free and reduced lunch eligibility.

Academically, the Malden R-I district is struggling, with both Malden Lower Elementary and Malden High performing significantly below state averages on standardized tests in Mathematics, Science, and English Language Arts. For example, Malden Lower Elementary's 5th grade Mathematics proficiency rate is just 28.2%, compared to the state average of 39.1%. Additionally, Malden Lower Elementary's statewide ranking has declined from 651 out of 908 Missouri elementary schools in 2021-2022 to 705 out of 898 in 2022-2023, suggesting a worsening performance relative to other schools.

Despite the district's economic challenges, with both schools spending over $10,000 per student and maintaining relatively low student-teacher ratios, the academic outcomes remain poor. This suggests that the Malden R-I district may need to implement targeted interventions and strategies to improve student learning and achievement across all grade levels.