Best Public Schools in Zip Code 78550

The 78550 zip code area of Harlingen, Texas is home to 24 schools, including 15 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, 4 high schools, and 2 alternative schools. This diverse set of educational institutions serves a predominantly Hispanic student population, with many students coming from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Among the standout schools in the area are Harlingen School Of Health Professions and Harlingen Collegiate High School, both high-performing public charter schools that rank among the top 5% and 1% of Texas high schools, respectively. These schools boast exceptional test scores, 100% graduation rates, and low dropout rates. In contrast, the district-run Harlingen High School has a 91.1% graduation rate and a 2.2% dropout rate. At the elementary level, Lee H Means Elementary, Bowie Elementary, and Zavala Elementary stand out with significantly higher test scores than the district and state averages.

The data also reveals a wide range in academic performance across the schools, with some struggling with low proficiency rates, particularly in the district-run public schools. This disparity may be attributed to factors such as high percentages of economically disadvantaged students, varying student-teacher ratios, and the potential effectiveness of the charter school model in this area. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for improving educational outcomes and ensuring all students in the 78550 zip code area have access to a high-quality education, regardless of their school of choice.