Summary:
The city of Santa Maria, Texas is home to 4 schools serving students from elementary through high school, including 1 elementary school, 1 middle school, and 2 high schools (one of which is an alternative school). These schools serve a predominantly Hispanic and economically disadvantaged student population, with all schools having extremely high rates of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch.
Tony Gonzalez Elementary stands out for its high percentage of Hispanic students (97.35%) and low STAAR test scores, though the school's 3rd and 4th grade reading proficiency rates are higher than the state average. Santa Maria High School also has a very high percentage of Hispanic students (98.15%) and low STAAR EOC scores, but maintains a strong 98.0% four-year graduation rate. In contrast, the Santa Maria Academic Academy-Options Campus (6-12), an alternative high school, struggles with a low 40.0% graduation rate and high 21.1% dropout rate.
Overall, the schools in the Santa Maria Independent School District (Isd) face significant socioeconomic challenges that likely impact student performance. While the schools generally underperform on state assessments, there are some potential bright spots, such as the strong graduation rate at the traditional high school. The data highlights the importance of considering the unique context and challenges faced by schools serving high-poverty, predominantly minority student populations.
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