Best Public Schools in Tacoma, WA

The Tacoma, Washington area is home to 88 schools, including 51 elementary schools, 16 middle schools, 20 high schools, and 1 alternative school, serving students across a range of socioeconomic backgrounds. The data reveals a complex landscape, with pockets of academic excellence alongside persistent challenges, particularly for schools serving economically disadvantaged populations.

Some of the standout schools in the area include Stadium High School, which ranks 90th out of 437 Washington high schools and has a 4-star rating, with strong performance in English Language Arts and Math. The Science and Math Institute, a public magnet high school, also excels in STEM subjects, ranking 71st in the state. At the elementary level, Lowell Elementary School and Sherman Elementary School demonstrate exceptional academic performance, with high proficiency rates in core subjects.

However, the data also reveals significant disparities in performance, with some schools, such as Foss High School and Mount Tahoma High School, struggling to meet proficiency standards. These disparities often correlate with socioeconomic factors, as schools with high rates of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch tend to have lower test scores, graduation rates, and other academic indicators. Addressing these inequities and ensuring all students have access to high-quality education will be a key priority for the Tacoma School District and other local education authorities.