LAUDERDALE CO SCHOOL DIST

LAUDERDALE CO SCHOOL DIST is a rural district in Mississippi serving 5,910 students across 11 schools, comprising 4 elementary, 3 middle, and 4 high schools. The district experienced modest enrollment growth of 0.6% in the prior year, suggesting relative stability. With 451 teachers, the district maintains a student-teacher ratio of 13.1:1, which is comparable to typical district configurations.

Academically, the district demonstrates performance above state averages. Math proficiency stands at 59.5% compared to Mississippi's 50.1%, while reading proficiency reaches 55.9% versus the state average of 43.0%. The graduation rate of 95.7% substantially exceeds the state average of 88.0%. Chronic absenteeism presents a notable area of concern at 32.8%, which warrants attention for student engagement and support.

The student population is relatively economically disadvantaged, with 49.3% qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch programs. Per-pupil spending is $11,119 annually, which falls below the state average of $12,810, representing a funding gap of approximately $1,700 per student. The district's total budget of $65.7 million derives primarily from state funding at 54.6%, supplemented by local revenue at 28.8% and federal funds at 16.6%. This revenue composition indicates moderate local fiscal capacity alongside state dependence, typical for rural Mississippi districts.