The top reported proficiency rate is 42% in English language arts. The lowest is 21% in Science.
Original Research by School Decision on East Middle
East Middle is a regular public school in the Hazelwood School District, serving only eighth grade. With a modest enrollment, it operates as a single-grade middle school, meaning every student is in the same grade and the entire building is focused on a single transitional year before high school. The student body is predominantly Black, and a substantial share of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, reflecting the economic context of the north St. Louis County area the school serves.
State testing results from the Missouri Assessment Program give a mixed picture. In English language arts, just over two-fifths of eighth graders scored proficient or advanced. Math proficiency was markedly lower, with roughly a quarter of students reaching that bar. Science proficiency was the weakest area, with about one-fifth of students meeting the standard. Overall, the school’s proficiency index across tested subjects sits below the midpoint when compared with other districts in St. Louis County. A parent considering East Middle may want to ask the school about its academic support strategies, particularly in math and science, and how those subjects are being addressed in the eighth-grade curriculum.
Because East Middle serves only one grade, there is no graduation rate to report, and chronic absenteeism data was not available. The school’s single-grade structure is unusual; it concentrates all resources and attention on students at a pivotal age, but means families will need to plan for the transition to high school the following year.
The Hazelwood School District, which encompasses a broad area of north St. Louis County, has been undertaking a number of initiatives that may affect families at East Middle. The district adopted a five-year strategic plan covering 2023 to 2028, with goals that include improving student achievement, expanding resources and services, enhancing professional growth, maintaining fiscal responsibility, and increasing parent and community involvement. The district also offers pre-kindergarten programs in all of its elementary schools and has launched a virtual elementary program, though these are aimed at younger students rather than middle schoolers. Whether any of these district-level strategies have direct implications for eighth-grade instruction is something a parent could investigate with school administrators.
The housing market in St. Louis County shows a mix of activity. Active listings have increased over the past year, while median listing prices have declined somewhat. Homes typically spend just over a month on the market. Rents are down slightly year-over-year, and the estimated mortgage payment for a median-priced home is roughly comparable to the national picture. For families moving into the area, the county offers a range of suburban neighborhoods, though the school’s immediate vicinity is more urban in character.
East Middle offers a straightforward academic path for a single year, with proficiency results that suggest room for growth, especially in math and science. The school’s demographic makeup and economic profile are important context for families considering whether the environment and supports align with their child’s needs. Given the limited data on programs and course access, families may want to visit the school to learn about elective offerings, extracurriculars, and how the staff prepares eighth graders for the transition to Hazelwood’s high schools.
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