Best Public Schools in Zip Code 44053

The 44053 zip code area is home to two schools - Lorain Preparatory Academy, a public charter elementary/middle school, and Durling Middle School, a traditional public middle school. While both schools serve diverse student populations, their academic performance and outcomes vary significantly.

Lorain Preparatory Academy struggles academically, ranking in the bottom 15-20% of Ohio elementary schools and having proficiency rates of just 10-39% on state assessments. The school also faces high chronic absenteeism, with over 55% of students chronically absent. In contrast, Durling Middle School performs better, ranking in the middle 50% of Ohio middle schools and having proficiency rates of 33-61% on state tests. However, Durling Middle School also grapples with high chronic absenteeism, with 46% of students chronically absent.

Despite the performance differences, both schools serve diverse student populations and have similar per-student spending levels. The stark contrast in academic outcomes suggests that factors beyond funding, such as attendance, instructional quality, and equity, may be contributing to the schools' challenges. Addressing these issues should be a priority for the Lorain Preparatory Academy and Clearview Local districts to ensure all students in the 44053 zip code have access to a high-quality education.