Summary:
The 29164 zip code area is home to 3 struggling public schools - 1 elementary, 1 middle, and 1 high school - all of which are performing well below average compared to other schools in South Carolina. Cyril B. Busbee Elementary and Wagener-Sally High have the lowest 1-star ratings from SchoolDigger, ranking in the bottom quartile of their respective school types statewide. A.L. Corbett Middle fares slightly better with a 2-star rating, but still ranks in the bottom third of South Carolina middle schools.
All 3 schools serve a high-poverty student population, with 100% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. The racial makeup is predominantly White and African American, with small Hispanic populations and virtually no Asian or Native American students. While spending per student at Wagener-Sally High is higher than the state average at $18,757, this does not seem to be translating into stronger academic outcomes. Proficiency rates on state assessments are significantly below state and district averages across multiple subjects, particularly in math.
The consistently poor rankings and low test scores at these schools suggest systemic challenges that need to be addressed. Factors like teacher quality, curriculum, and school leadership may all be contributing to the underperformance. Additional support, resources, and interventions from the Aiken 01 district will be crucial to driving progress and ensuring students in this community have access to a high-quality education.
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