Summary:
The Garden City, Kansas school district consists of 18 schools, including 11 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, 2 high schools, and 1 alternative school. The district faces significant achievement gaps, with a few standout high-performing schools like Jennie Wilson Elementary and Plymell Elementary contrasting with lower-performing schools such as Garden City High School and Horace J. Good Middle School.
The district as a whole struggles with low proficiency rates in core subjects compared to state averages, with only a few schools exceeding 50% proficiency. Many schools have high rates of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, indicating significant economic disadvantage. Spending per student varies widely, with higher-spending schools tending to be the lower-performing ones. Student-teacher ratios also range greatly, from 6.6 students per teacher at the alternative school to 54 students per teacher at Jennie Wilson Elementary.
These findings suggest systemic issues within the district, including uneven access to resources and educational opportunities. Addressing the achievement gaps and socioeconomic disparities will likely require a comprehensive approach focused on equitable resource allocation, targeted interventions, and community partnerships. Identifying and replicating the practices of the district's highest-performing schools could also provide valuable insights to improve outcomes for all students.
Thank you for your feedback!