The top reported proficiency rate is 68% in English language arts. The lowest is 39% in Science.
Original Research by School Decision on Tallassee Elementary School
Tallassee Elementary School, a regular public school serving pre-kindergarten through fourth grade, opened the 2024-25 school year with an expanded Pre-K classroom added by the district, a parent-relevant change for families considering early childhood options. The school operates as part of the Tallassee City school system, which comprises three separate campuses in this small town on the Tallapoosa River.
The student body is predominantly white, with a Black student population that is the next largest group, and smaller shares of students identifying as two or more races, Hispanic, and Asian. A substantial share of students come from low-income households, as reflected in the free-and-reduced-price lunch rate. The school serves a town that has experienced a modest population decline since the closure of its historic textile mills, a major economic shift that took away a significant employer. Today, the local economy rests primarily on healthcare, education, and utility operations, including the Alabama Power hydroelectric plant at Thurlow Dam.
On state assessments, the school’s results present a mixed picture that warrants a closer look. In English language arts, a clear majority of third and fourth graders met proficiency standards. Proficiency in math was lower, with about half of fourth graders and a smaller share of third graders reaching that bar. Science proficiency, tested only in fourth grade, was below the mark set by the other two subjects. A parent may want to inquire with the school about how math and science instruction are structured and what supports are available for students who do not yet meet proficiency. Overall, the school scored above the midpoint on a proficiency index that combined all tested subjects and grades, compared to other districts in Elmore County.
The school does not serve high school grades, so there is no graduation rate to report. Similarly, data on chronic absenteeism and staffing were not available in the provided records. Information on special education and English learner populations was also absent.
In the community setting, Tallassee offers a family-oriented atmosphere with a historic downtown, a riverwalk, a farmers market, and access to the Tallapoosa River for recreation. Homes in the area are priced below the state and national benchmarks, and local housing values saw an increase recently. Housing affordability relative to income is standard. The high school athletic facilities underwent a major renovation in 2024, which may be of interest to families with long-term ties to the district.
The school is best suited for families looking for a small-town elementary setting with an established early childhood program and the opportunity to be part of a district that has recently invested in its facilities. The academic picture is strongest in literacy, while math and science proficiency are areas a parent will want to understand better by speaking directly with school staff about classroom practices and intervention programs.
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