Highlands Elementary School vs. James Dawson Elementary School

Highlands Elementary School in Huntsville, AL ranked #994 in the state in 2023, declining from #590 in 2012, placing it in the bottom 50% of Alabama public schools overall.

Math proficiency was 69%, higher than the state average of 30% in 2023, improving sharply from below 10% in prior years; reading proficiency was 32%, lower than the state average of 47%; science proficiency ranged between 11–19%, lower than the state average of 38%.

Enrollment decreased from 509 students in 2016 to 380 in 2023, while minority enrollment remained very high at 96%, and 85% of students qualified for free or reduced–price lunch, reflecting sustained socioeconomic need.

The school serves grades Pre–K through 6 with 380 students and a student–teacher ratio of 15:1 in 2023, consistent with prior years.

Graduation rates at Highlands were reported at 94% in 2023, higher than the Alabama state rate of 88%.

James Dawson Elementary School in Huntsville, AL, ranked in the bottom 50% statewide in 2023 with an overall state rank declining from #822 in 2012 to #1145 in 2023, indicating weaker performance over time.

Math proficiency was 5% in 2023, lower than the state average of 30%, while reading proficiency was 22%, also lower than the state average of 47%; science proficiency ranged from 11% to 19%, below the state average of 38%.

Enrollment rose slightly from 432 students in 2023 to 447 students recently, with a high minority enrollment of 97% and a majority (82%) eligible for free lunch, reflecting significant socioeconomic challenges.

The school serves grades Pre–K through 6 with an enrollment of 447 students and a student–teacher ratio of 20:1, higher than in previous years (e.g., 15:1 in 2020).

James Dawson Elementary is a Title I school in the Huntsville City district, with no virtual instruction offered and participation in the National School Lunch Program under the Community Eligibility Option.