Summary:
The 28160 zip code area is home to two schools - Spindale Elementary School, serving grades PK-5, and Rutherford Early College High School, serving grades 9-12. While both schools serve a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students, Rutherford Early College High School stands out as a top-performing school in the Rutherford County Schools district.
Rutherford Early College High School consistently ranks among the best high schools in North Carolina, with exceptional test scores that significantly exceed county and state averages. The school's unique early college model, which focuses on college readiness, appears to be a key factor in its academic success. Additionally, Rutherford Early College High School has a lower percentage of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch, suggesting a higher socioeconomic status of the student population compared to Spindale Elementary School.
In contrast, Spindale Elementary School's test scores are below the county and state averages in most subject areas. The school also has a more racially diverse student population, with a higher percentage of African American and Hispanic students. Despite Spindale Elementary School having a higher spending per student, the academic performance of Rutherford Early College High School is significantly better, highlighting the importance of factors beyond just funding in driving student success.
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