Elementary Schools in Clay

The 28 elementary schools located in Clay, Florida serve students from diverse backgrounds and economic circumstances, with a wide range of academic performance levels. While some standout schools like Orange Park Elementary and Fleming Island Elementary are among the top-ranked in the state, other schools struggle with low test scores and high rates of chronic absenteeism.

The data reveals significant disparities in student outcomes, with a clear correlation between poverty and academic performance. Schools with high rates of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, such as Charles E. Bennett Elementary and Grove Park Elementary, tend to have the lowest proficiency rates in English Language Arts and Math. Conversely, high-performing schools like Robert M. Paterson Elementary and Thunderbolt Elementary are able to achieve exceptional results despite serving more diverse student populations.

Addressing the wide achievement gaps and replicating the best practices of the top-performing schools will be crucial for ensuring all students in Clay receive a high-quality education. Targeted interventions and support at the individual school level, as well as a focus on improving attendance, will be key to improving outcomes across the district.