SchoolSparrow is pleased to present the 30 best Out-Performing elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs. An Out-Performer is a school that ranks poorly (6 or below) on the popular school ranking websites out there, but on SchoolSparrow, the same school ranks very high. But how can that be?
The answer is simple: other ranking sites are not accounting for the impact of parent income on test scores. Research has repeatedly shown that parent income is, by far, the largest influencer of test scores at any one school. So a system that has straight test scores as a major factor in their ranking system is actually ranking schools by parent income, not the quality of the school.
Today’s School Ratings Are Biased
This is why today’s school rating system is biased towards schools in privileged areas and it unfairly underrates schools of color. The result is parents are making decisions about where to make the biggest investment of their lives without a balanced view of school quality. We aim to fix this problem.
For example, imagine a school is rated 7/10. Is that a good score? Does this school deserve a closer look? After all, a parent can’t possibly visit the dozens or even hundreds of possible school choices in a given school district, so they have to find a way to narrow down the list. Does a school that scores a 7/10 deserve to make the short list?
The answer is you really can’t tell, because without the context of parent income, a 7/10 is actually meaningless. To illustrate the point, now imagine 2 schools that both have 7/10 ratings. On the surface, it appears they likely have similar performance and one can’t say that either school is better than the other. But now we learn that one school is located in a ritzy suburb, and the other in an early gentrifying neighborhood in the city.
Now we have enough information to make a comparison, the suburban school’s score is so-so, but the school in the city is AMAZING. The teachers at this school are making the difference, not simply benefitting from high achievers from high income families. In addition, this school likely has a vibrant mix of different races and cultures, which provides a proven cognitive benefit that simply does not exist at homogenous schools. If you value great teaching and great diversity, not to mention a better commute and more time with your family, then this school probably deserves a closer look.
SchoolSparrow’s Rating System
We have created an equitable school ranking system that accounts for parent income, allowing a more fair evaluation of some schools in mixed and lower income neighborhoods. Our system also dethrones some schools that are given high marks by today’s popular rating sites simply because the parents are high earners.
To hear more about how we intend to bring equitable school rankings, and how you can be a part of the change, please sign up on our mailing list below:
SchoolSparrow’s Top 30 Best Elementary Schools in the Atlanta Suburbs
Atlanta is the state capital of Georgia, and with a population of over 6 million people in the Metro Area, it is by far the largest City in Georgia and the 9th largest metropolitan area in the US. Like Chicago and New York, Atlanta is known for its skyline, bustling streets, and large economy.
So, without further ado, below are the 30 Best Out-Performing Elementary Schools in the Atlanta Suburbs. For reference, the points for each school represent the % of students who meet or exceed state standards on the reading/language arts (RLA) section of the standardized test.
Congratulations to the students, parents and especially the hard working and dedicated teachers at these top elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs! The educators are making a difference at these awesome schools.
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1. Liberty Point Elementary School, Union City GA
2. Enota Multiple Intelligences Academy, Gainesville GA
3. J.H. House Elementary School, Conyers GA
4. Jefferson Parkway Elementary School, Newnan GA
5. Lilburn Elementary School, Lilburn GA
6. Narvie Harris Elem School, Decatur GA
7. River’s Edge Elementary School, Fayetteville, GA
8. Bob Mathis Elementary School, Decatur GA
9. McLendon Elementary School, Decatur GA
10. Beulah Elementary School, Douglasville GA
11. Milford Elementary School, Marietta GA
12. Morrow Elementary School, Morrow GA
13. Oakcliff Elementary, Doraville GA
14. Smoke Rise Elementary School, Stone Mountain GA
15. William M Mcgarrah Elementary School – Morrow, GA
16. Knight Elementary School – Lilburn, GA
17. Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary School – Lithonia, GA
18. Lithia Springs Elementary School – Lithia Springs, GA
19. Corley Elementary School – Lawrenceville, GA
20. Norcross Elementary School, Norcross GA
21. Partee Elementary School – Snellville, GA
22. Thurgood Marshall Elementary School – Morrow, GA
23. Palmetto Elementary School – Palmetto, GA
24. Sharp Creek Elementary School – Carollton, GA
25. Bill Arp Elementary School – Douglasville, GA
26. Annette Winn Elementary School, Lithia Springs GA
27. Callaway Elementary School – Jonesboro, GA
28. Baldwin Elementary – Norcross, GA
29. Sweetwater Elementary School – Lithia Springs, GA
30. Brockett Elementary School – Tucker, GA
1. Liberty Point Elementary School – Union City, GA
First, there’s Liberty Point Elementary located in Union City, and it had a population of 21,873 in 2018. It is about 25 minutes away from downtown Atlanta.
GreatSchools gives out too low of a score and ranks Liberty Point Elementary a 4/10. Meanwhile, SchoolSparrow awards the elementary school a perfect score: 10/10 or an A+.
Let’s start with the fact that all students from grades 3-5 are earning an overall A or better. Special shout out to those students earning A’s individually!
The average expected score for Atlanta Metro schools with similar parent income profiles is 23.7 points. Liberty Point Elementary scores 94% higher than expected coming in at 46 points! Compared to last year, Liberty Point is trending upward by over 40%. This means the difference between the average score (the average score for schools with a similar parent income profile) and the actual score compared to last year has risen by over 40%.
Without a doubt, Liberty Point Elementary is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
If you are looking for a home near Liberty Point Elementary, the average home value in Union City is $159,805, and here is a 3BD 3BA home in the attendance boundaries for only $153,000!
Address: 19000 Highpoint Road, Union City, GA 30213
Website: https://www.fultonschools.org/libertypointes
2. Enota MI Academy – Gainesville, GA
Second, we have Enota Multiple Intelligences Academy which is located in the city of Gainesville. In 2018, there was a population of 41,464, and it’s about 50 minutes away from downtown Atlanta.
Enota MI Academy has a diversity score of 40 points which is the highest possible score, guaranteeing a vibrant mix of cultures and a warm inclusive environment for kids!. At least 3 races are each represented by at least 20% of the student population at Enota MI Academy.
Additionally, Atlanta Metro schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score 23.7 points on standardized tests, but Enota Elementary actually scores 39 points. This is 64.5% higher than the expected average score! Furthemore, Enota students are trending upwards with a 20% increase in their parent income adjusted scores compared to last year.
SchoolSparrow ranks this school as a 10/10 or an A, but GreatSchools gives this academy a low score of 6/10. From previous statements, it’s clear that Enota MI Academy is worthy of a higher overall rank.
Also, students in grades 3,4, and 5 are all scoring an average of a A- or better. Congrats to all students and staff for their hard work and determination! It surely qualifies as one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
Looking to move near Enota MI Academy? The average home value in Gainesville is $235,649, compared to $359,900 in Atlanta. This is a 5BD 4BA home in the attendance boundaries for only $195,000!
Address: 1340 Enota Ave NE Gainesville, GA 30501
Website: https://eesweb.gcssk12.net/
3. J.H. House Elementary School – Conyers, GA
Thirdly, there’s J.H. House Elementary School located in Conyers, Georgia. It is a 30 minute drive from downtown Atlanta, and the population in 2018 was around 16,000.
SchoolSparrow ranks House Elementary a 10/10 or an A, but GreatSchools only gives House Elementary half of that score: a 5/10.
J.H. House Elementary has a diversity score of 20 out of 40 points, and students in grades 3,4, and 5 are earning an overall grade of A- or better. Compared to last year, House Elementary is also trending upward by over 20%.
Equally important, Atlanta Metro schools that have similar parent income profiles tend to score 28.4 points, but House Elementary exceeds this expectation by 51%. Their students score an average of 43 points on standardized tests, making House Elementary one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
Moving near this elementary school? The average home value in Conyers, GA is $197,854. This is a 3BD 2BA home in the attendance boundaries for only $150,000!
Address: 2930 Hwy 20 NE, Conyers, GA 30012
Website: https://jhh.rockdaleschools.org/
4. Jefferson Parkway Elementary School – Newnan, GA
Next on the list, we have Jefferson Parkway Elementary School that is located in the city of Newnan, Georgia. The city has a large population of 39,784, and it takes about 38 minutes to get to downtown Atlanta.
SchoolSparrow gives Jefferson Parkway Elementary the score that it deserves: a 10/10 or an A overall. GreatSchools, on the other hand, gives Jefferson Parkway a low 4/10 but the stats prove otherwise.
For example, the elementary school has a diversity score of 40 points which is the highest score, and it is trending upwards by over 20% in comparison to the previous year!
Atlanta area schools with similar parent income profiles normally score an average of 30.6 points. Jefferson Parkway Elementary scored 45 points which is 47% higher than the expected average. Also, students in grades 3 through 5 are earning overall grades of an A.
Given these factors, Jefferson Parkway Elementary is definitely one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs!
Moving near this school? The average home value in Emerson is $271,700 and $359,900 in Atlanta. This is a 3BD 2BA home in the attendance boundaries for only $224,900.
Address: 154 Millard Farmer Ind Blvd Newnan, GA 30263
Website: http://jpes.cowetaschools.net/
5. Lilburn Elementary School – Lilburn, GA
Here we have Lilburn Elementary located in Lilburn, a city in Gwinnett County. In 2018, the population was at 12,644, and it is a 30 minute drive to downtown Atlanta.
Lilburn Elementary wouldn’t be on this list without impressive test results when normalized for parent income. SchoolSparrow rewards Lilburn with an A grade, equivalent to a 10/10, but GreatSchools has Lilburn listed as a 6/10, which isn’t nearly high enough.
Their diversity score is a 20 out of 40 possible points, and students in grades 3,4, and 5 are all earning overall grades of an A or better. This makes for an excellent learning environment where the teachers are making a difference.
Atlanta area schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score 28.7 points, but Lilburn Elementary scored 43 points. This is almost 50% higher than the expected average. Compared to last year, the school is trending upward by 14%! This only adds to reasons why Lilburn is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
Searching for a home near Lilburn Elementary? Compared to $359,900 in the city of Atlana, the average home value in Lilburn is $255,215. This is a 3BD home in the attendance boundaries for only $199,000!
Address: 531 Lilburn School Rd NW Lilburn, GA 30047
Website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/LilburnES
6. Narvie Harris Elementary School – Decatur, GA
Narvie Harris Elementary School is one of three schools on this list that is located in the city of Decatur. It is a 25 minute drive to downtown Atlanta and had a population of 25,732 in 2018.
All students in the grades of 3,4 and 5 are earning overall grades of a B or better. Not to mention, in comparison to last year, Narvie Harris Elementary scores are trending upwards by 33% compared to last year.
Also, Atlanta area schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score 43.6 points, but Narvie Harris Elementary scored 31% higher than the expected state average. Narvie Harris scored an impressive 57 points making Narvie Harris one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
On GreatSchools, Narvie Harris Elementary School was ranked a low 4/10, but SchoolSparrow has Narvie Harris ranked at a 10/10 or an A which is justified by the school’s noteworthy achievements.
If you are interested in moving in the Narvie Harris Elementary attendance boundaries, then know that the average list home price in Decatur is $399,000, but the average sell price is $370,000. This is a 3BD 2BA home in the attendance boundaries for only $149,900!
Address: 3981 McGill Drive, Decatur, GA 30034
Website: http://narvieharrises.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
7. River’s Edge Elementary School – Fayetteville, GA
River’s Edge Elementary School is located in the city of Fayetteville, and the population in 2018 was 17,827. Fayetteville is 22 miles south of downtown Atlanta which is about a 30 minute drive.
GreatSchools ranked River’s Edge Elementary School a low 6/10, but SchoolSparrow rewarded River’s Edge with a 10/10, and here’s why.
First, all students in grades 3, 4, and 5 are earning overall grades of a B+ or higher, and River’s Edge Elementary is trending upwards by 30.5% compared to last year meaning the difference between the average score (the average score for schools with a similar parent income profile) and the actual score compared to last year has risen by 12%, and that is after a 30% increase the year before!.
Also, Atlanta area schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score 23.7 points, but River’s Edge Elementary scored 37 points. This is 56.1% higher than the expected average. Congrats to all students and staff for these amazing improvements!
Searching for a home near River’s Edge Elementary? The average home value is $285,557 in Fayetteville, GA, and here is a 3BD 3BA house listed for $216,000.
Address: 205 Northbridge Rd Fayetteville, GA 30215
Website: https://129.clayton.k12.ga.us
8. Bob Mathis Elementary School – Decatur, GA
The second school located in Decatur is Bob Mathis Elementary School, and it is about a 20 minute drive from downtown Atlanta.
GreatSchools ranks Bob Mathis Elementary too low with a 4/10 rating. According to SchoolSparrow, Bob Mathis Elementary deserves a 10/10 or an A.
Students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade are earning overall grades of an A or better. Special shout out to those individually earning an A! Bob Mathis Elementary is also trending upwards this year by 35% compared to last year.
Atlanta area schools with similar parent income profiles average 23.7 points on standardized tests, but this school scored 37 points, which is 56.1% higher than the expected average! All things considered, Bob Mathis Elementary is one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
If you are interested in finding a home in the attendance boundaries of this school, then know that the average list home price in Decatur is $399,000. Here is a 3BD 2BA home in the attendance boundaries for only $167,000.
Address: 3505 Boring Rd Decatur, GA 30034
Website: http://www.bobmathises.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
9. McLendon Elementary School – Decatur, GA
Now, we have McLendon Elementary School which is the third school on this list located in the suburban city of Decatur. The population in 2018 was 25,732, and it is a 25 minute drive to Atlanta’s metro area.
SchoolSparrow awards McLendon Elementary with an overall A or a 10/10, yet GreatSchools ranks McLendon with a 6/10 which is way too low.
Let’s start with the fact that McLendon Elementary has a diversity score of 30 out of 40 possible points, and all students in grades 3,4, and 5 are earning overall grades of an A. Shout out to all the students and staff for making these improvements in good grades possible!
Compared to last year, McLendon Elementary is trending upwards by 15% after a nearly 40% increase the year before!. That is truly amazing, and with these points in mind, McLendon is obviously one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs! Also, Atlanta Area schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score 23.7 points, but this school scored 37 points which is 56% higher than expected.
If you are looking to buy a home near McLendon Elementary, the average list home price in Decatur is $399,000, but the average sell price is $370,000. Check out this 3BD 2BA house listed at $299,000!
Address: 3169 Hollywood Dr Decatur, GA 30033
Website: http://www.mclendones.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
10. Beulah Elementary School – Douglasville, GA
The next school is located in Douglasville, and the city is considered to be part of the Metro area. Beulah Elementary School is about 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta, and the city’s 2018 population was 34,190.
Similar to a number of schools on this list, Beulah Elementary was ranked a 5/10 by GreatSchools, but this rank isn’t even close to what Beulah deserves. Of course, SchoolSparrow sees the truth and gives Beulah Elementary a perfect score of 10/10. Let’s see why.
For starters, Beulah Elementary has a diversity score of 40 points which is the highest possible score, and all students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade are earning average letter grades of a B+ or better.
Atlanta area schools with similar income profiles tend to score 35.7 points. Beulah Elementary scored 37.3% higher than the expected average with a score of 49 points. Additionally, Beulah is trending upwards by nearly 40% this year.
For these reasons, Beulah Elementary should be recognized as one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs!
Looking to buy a home near Beulah Elementary? The average home value in Douglasville, GA is $201,089. This is a 3BD home in the attendance boundaries for $289,900.
Address: 1150 S Burnt Hickory Rd Douglasville, GA 30134
Website: https://bees.dcssga.org/
11. Milford Elementary School – Marietta, GA
Milford Elementary is located in Marietta which is northwest of Atlanta. It is about a 30 minute drive from downtown Atlanta, and the city population in 2018 was 60,806.
Since this school was given just a 3/10, Milford Elementary is another school that was ranked poorly by GreatSchools. However, SchoolSparrow rates Milford at an A (10/10), which is well justified considering the outstanding performance on standardized tests when adjusted for parent income.
Atlanta area schools with similar income profiles are expected to score around 29.3 points. Despite this, Milford Elementary scored 42 points on standardized tests which is 43% higher than the expected average.
Milford Elementary also has a diversity score of 20 out of 40 possible points. This year, Milford is trending upwards by over 40% compared to the previous year. To add to this, students in grades 3-5 are earning an average grade of B+ or better overall.
For those planning to buy a home near Milford Elementary, the average home value in Marietta, GA is $319,012. This is a 3BD, newly rehabbed home in the attendance boundaries for only $179,000!
Address: 2390 Austell Road Southwest, Marietta, GA 30008
Website: https://www.cobbk12.org/Milford
12. Morrow Elementary School – Morrow, GA
The city of Morrow is located in Clayton County and is home of Morrow Elementary School. It is only about 21 minutes away from downtown Atlanta, and in 2018, there was a population of 7,494.
SchoolSparrow gives Morrow Elementary a well deserved score of 10/10 or an A, but GreatSchools only gives Morrow half of that score: a 5/10.
For one thing, Morrow Elementary has the highest diversity score possible which is 40 points, and all students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade are earning overall grades of A- or better. Special shout out to those who individually earned an A!
Atlanta area schools with similar income profiles normally score 23.7 points. Morrow Elementary scored 36 points which is 51.8% higher than expected. This school is also trending upward by 12% compared to last year. Indeed, Morrow is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs!
Searching for a home near Morrow Elementary? The average home list price in this zip code is $170,000 and $359,900 in Atlanta. This is a 4BD 2BA house for the low price of $135,000.
Address: 6115 Reynolds Rd Morrow, GA 30260
Website: https://115.clayton.k12.ga.us/
13. Oakcliff Elementary School – Doraville, GA
With a population of 10,526, Doraville is one of the smaller cities in Georgia, and it’s where Oakcliff Elementary School resides. It is only 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
To begin with, students at Oakcliff Elementary are all earning an average grade of A- or better, and the school has a diversity score of 10 points.
Oakcliff Elementary has also been trending upwards this year by 34%!
Despite this, GreatSchools ranked Oakcliff Elementary a 6/10, but SchoolSparrow gives Oakcliff the score it deserves: a 10/10 or an A!
Also, Atlanta area schools with similar parent income profiles would normally score 27 points, but students at Oakcliff Elementary scored 39 points. This score is 44.4% higher than the expected average which is why Oakcliff is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
If you are planning on moving near Oakcliff Elementary, the average home value in Doraville is $253,009 and $359,000 in Atlanta. However, here is a 3BD 2BA home in the attendance boundaries listed at $241,500!
Address: 3151 Willow Oak Way Doraville, GA 30340
Website: http://www.oakcliffes.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
14. Smoke Rise Elementary School – Stone Mountain, GA
Smoke Rise Elementary is located in the small city of Stone Mountain, a gateway to Stone Mountain Park. It is about 31 minutes away from downtown Atlanta, and the population was 6,324 as of 2018.
To begin with, GreatSchools gives Smoke Rise Elementary a 5/10 while SchoolSparrow awards the school with a 10/10 or an A overall. This ranking accurately reflects Smoke Rise’s achievements.
Smoke Rise Elementary has a diversity score of 20 out of 40 possible points, and the students in grades 3,4, and 5 are making an average grade of B – or better. The school is also trending 14% upwards compared to the previous year!
Atlanta area schools that have similar parent income profiles tend to score 35.3 points on standardized tests. In contrast, Smoke Rise Elementary scored 47 points which is 33% higher than the expected state average.
Looking to buy a home near Smoke Rise Elementary? The average home list price in Stone Mountain is $260,000. Here is a 3BD 3BA townhouse listed for $179,900!
Address: 1991 Silver Hill Rd Stone Mountain, GA 30087
Website: http://www.smokerisees.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
15. William M McGarrah Elementary School – Morrow, GA
With Morrow being considered as a part of Metro Atlanta, the city offers other activities alongside great education such as fine dining and many shopping/entertainment venues. William M. McGarrah Elementary is another school located in the city Morrow, and it’s about 22 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
Based on our ranking system, there are many reasons why this Clayton County public school has a 10/10 or an A rank on SchoolSparrow in comparison to GreatSchools low rank of 5/10.
William M McGarrah has a diversity score of 20 points out of 40 possible points, and this means that the school has at least 2 races each representing 15% of the student body. Also, all students are earning the average grade of an A. Shout out to those students earning an A individually!
Georgia schools with similar parent income profiles usually score 23.7 points on standardized tests, but the students at William M McGarrah earned 35 points which is 47.7% higher than the expected average. To add to this, McGarrah is trending upwards by 4% compared to the previous year.
Thinking about moving your family near this school? The average home value in Morrow is $170,000, but here is a 4BD 2BA house listed at $135,000.
Address: 2201 Lake Harbin Rd Morrow, GA 30260
Website: https://113.clayton.k12.ga.us/cms/One.aspx
16. Knight Elementary School – Lilburn, GA
Lilburn is definitely a popular location for Out-Performing schools. This suburb was one of the first developed cities as population growth diverged from Atlanta, and it is the home of Knight Elementary School which is 33 minutes from the Metro area.
Knight Elementary was given a 6/10 ranking on GreatSchools, but the school’s stats suggest that a higher rank is needed. Because of this, SchoolSparrow awards Knight Elementary with a 10/10 or A rank.
When looking at standardized testing, Knight Elementary scores 53 points. Meanwhile, Georgia schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score an average 41.9 points meaning that students at Knight Elementary scored 26.5% higher than expected.
Knight Elementary also has a diversity score of 30 out of 40 possible points, so there are 3 different races each making up at least 15% of the student body.
Plus, students in the 3rd and 5th grade are earning overall letter grades of an A, and Knight Elementary is trending upwards by 12% this year compared to last year. It is certainly one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs!
Wanting to purchase a home near Knight Elementary? The average home value in Lilburn, GA is $255,215. This 3BD 2BA home is currently for sale in the attendance boundaries for $195,000!
Address: 401 N River Dr SW Lilburn, GA 30047
Website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/KnightES
17. Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary School – Lithonia, GA
Lithonia’s name comes from the Greek word lithos (meaning stone) since it is located in the heart of Georgian granite-quarrying region and is a type of metamorphic rock. The city was nominated to the National Register of Historic Places and is home to Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary School which is 24 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
At Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary, students in 3,4, and 5 grade are earning overall letter grades an A- or better. Special shout out to those who are earning A’s individually!
Regardless, GreatSchools ranked Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary a 6/10, but SchoolSparrow takes into account parent income and gives Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary a 10/10 or an A.
Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary is also trending upwards by 73% meaning the difference between the average score (for schools with a similar parent income profile) and the actual score compared to last year has risen by 10%.
Also, Georgia schools with similar parent income profiles normally score an average of 39 points, but Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary scored an impressive 50 points which is 28.2% higher than expected.
Thinking about buying a home near Edward L. Bouie- Sr. Elementary? The average home value in Lithonia, GA is $170,965. This 5BD 3BA home is currently for sale near Bouie Elementary for $134,900!
Address: 5100 Rock Springs Rd Lithonia, GA 30038
Website: http://www.bouiees.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
18. Lithia Springs Elementary School – Lithia Springs, GA
Lithia Springs is an unincorporated area of Douglas County located approximately 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta. It is home to the historic lithia mineral water springs. Lithia water is a type of mineral water characterized by the presence of lithium salts in the form of either lithium carbonate or lithium chloride. In addition to rare lithia water, Lithia Springs is home to an amazing elementary school: Lithia Springs Elementary.
Lithia Springs Elementary is on our list because on average, students outperform other schools in the Atlanta area with similar economic profiles when it comes to standardized test score.
On average, schools with similar economic profiles score 32.1% of kids as proficient, but Lithia Springs beats the average by 34% with a score of 43, earning the school an A (10/10) rating from SchoolSparrow! In addition, Lithia Springs students are trending upwards 18% compared to last year.
Add to this a diversity score of 30 out of 40 possible points, and you can rest assured your child will be part of an inclusive, vibrant community with all the proven cognitive benefits that come with diversity.
If you are curious about home affordability, the average home value in Lithonia GA is $183,281. This 3BD/3BA home is currently for sale in the attendance boundaries for $170,000!
Address: 5100 Rock Springs Rd Lithonia, GA 30038
Website: https://lses.dcssga.org/
19. Corley Elementary School – Lawrenceville, GA
Lawrenceville is a city located approximately 30 miles (and 30 minutes drive time) northeast of Atlanta with approximately 30,000 residents and it is the county seat of Gwinnett County. Lawrenceville is named after Commodore James Lawrence who was the commander of the frigate Chesapeake during the war of 1812. It is the 2nd largest city in the Metro area, and it is home to many excellent schools, including Corley Elementary which is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
While GreatSchools unfairly underrates Corley Elementary with a 6/10 rating, SchoolSparrow recognizes the quality education that is delivered at this amazing school. SchoolSparrow rates Corley Elementary at an A (10/10).
The expected or average score for similar schools is 29.3, but Corley beats the average by 36.5% with a score of 40. This school is trending upwards 17% compared to last year! Corley is doing a great job educating kids, and it is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
The diversity indicator is 20/40, so there is good level of diversity present at the school with at least 2 races representing at least 15% of the student population.
Thinking about moving to this community? The average home value in Lawrenceville GA is $246,040. This 4BD/3BA home is currently for sale in the attendance boundaries for $235,000!
Link to school website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/CorleyES
Address: 1331 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lawrenceville, GA 30044
20. Norcross Elementary School – Norcross, GA
Next, we have Norcross Elementary. It is located in the city that it’s named after: Norcross, GA. The school is about 27 minutes from downtown Atlanta, and in 2018, the population was 16,563.
Norcross Elementary was a ranked 5/10 on GreatSchools, but SchoolSparrow gives Norcross Elementary a 10/10 or an A.
All students in the grades of 3, 4, and 5 are earning an average grade of an A- or better. Shout out to all the students individually earning an A! Norcross also has a diversity score of 15 points out of 40 points.
More so, Georgia schools with similar parent income profiles normally score 29.3 points on standardized tests. Norcross Elementary scored an average of 40 points. This is 37% higher than the expected test scores, and in comparison to last year, Norcross Elementary is trending upwards by 6%!
If you are considering moving near Norcross Elementary, the average home list price in the city of Norcross is $250, and the average sold home price is $237,0000. Check out this 4BD 2BA house for less than both those prices!
Address: 150 Hunt St Norcross, GA 30071
Website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/NorcrossES
21. Partee Elementary School – Snellville, GA
Snellville, Georgia gets its name from an early settler named Thomas Snell who built a homestead and referred to it as Snellville. The area was originally known as New London, which is fitting considering Snell and two friends sailed to the new world from England in the mid 1800’s. Today the Town has approximately 20,000 residents, as home to excellent elementary schools, including Partee Elementary.
Partee is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs, but you wouldn’t know it by their 6/10 rating on greatschools. SchoolSparrow rates Partee Elementary at an A (10/10) due to the teachers making the difference, and not simply benefiting from high achievers from high income families.
Schools with similar economic profiles average a 44.3 on the standardized tests, but Partee exceeds the average by 24.2% with a score of 55! In addition, this school is trending upwards by nearly 20% compared to last year.
But is Snellville affordable? The average home value in Snellville GA is $230,878. This 4BD/2BA home is currently for sale in the attendance boundaries for $175,900!
Link to school website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/ParteeES
Address: 4350 Campbell Rd Snellville, GA 30039
22. Thurgood Marshall Elementary School – Morrow, GA
Morrow is a city in Clayton County, and it was named after Radford E Morrow who was the original owner of the town site. Morrow was founded in 1846 with the advent of the railroad in the area, and it was incorporated as a city in 1943.
Marshall Elementary wouldn’t be on our list if they didn’t have impressive scores on standardized tests when adjusted for the economic profile of the school. While greatschools assigns a 5/10 rating, SchoolSparrow recognizes Marshall as one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs, assigning an A (10/10) rating because of the excellent work of educators at this awesome school.
Schools with a similar economic profile score a 23.7 on the reading/language arts section of the standardized test. Marshall Elementary exceeds this score by 43.5% with a 34.0! And to add to these great scores, Marshall is trending upwards by nearly 30% compared to last year.
Marshall has a diversity score of 20/40, so parents can expect a diverse environment with good representation from different cultures.
If you are considering Morrow as a potential city to make your new home, the average home is $138,039, the most affordable on our list! This 3BD/2BA home is currently for sale in the attendance boundaries for only $124,900!
Link to school website: https://137.clayton.k12.ga.us/
Address: 5885 Maddox Rd Morrow, GA 30260
23. Palmetto Elementary School – Palmetto, GA
Palmetto is a small town with a population of 4,500 in Clayton county, and was named after the Palmetto Regiment of the Mexican-America War. Today it is home to one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta metro area: Palmetto Elementary School.
Palmetto is also one of the hardest to find Out-Performers in the Atlanta area. Greatschools assigns a paultry 4/10, while SchoolSparrow recognizes this school with an A (10/10) rating based on test scores adjusted for the economic profile of the school.
Schools with similar economic profiles score a 23.7 on reading/lanaguage arts section of the standardized test, on average. Palmetto Elementary exceeds this score by 43.5% with a 34, and they are trending upwards by nearly 40% compared to last year!
Palmetto Elementary has a diversity score of 15, so there is representation of at least 20% by at least two different races at the school.
If you are looking for a home in Palmetto, the average home value in Palmetto, GA is $151,801. This 3BD/2BA home is currently for sale in the attendance boundaries for only $149,900!
Link to school website: https://www.fultonschools.org/Page/165
Address: 505 Carlton Rd Palmetto, GA 30268
24. Sharp Creek Elementary School – Carollton, GA
Carollton, GA is a town with a population of approximately 29,000 and was named after Charles Caroll, who lived in the area and was one of the last signers of the Declaration of Independence. Carollton was incorporated in 1829, and today it is home to Sharp Creek Elementary School.
Greatschools gives Sharp Creek Elemtnary a low rating of 4/10, but we know this score is way too low. Sharp Creek is an A (10/10) based on the excellent job educators are doing at teaching students.
Schools with a similar income profile score, on average, 35.1 on the RLA section of the standardized test. But Sharp Creek students are exceeding this score by 28% with a score of 45, and the are trending upwards 14% compared to last year.
Add to this a very high diversity score of 30/40, and it is clear why Sharp Creek Elementary is one of the best elementary schools in the Atlanta suburbs. Parents are guaranteed a vibrant, inclusive community and all the proven cognitive benefits that come with diversity.
If you are considering a move to Carollton, the average home value is $176,221. This 3BD/2BA home is currently for sale in the attendance boundaries for only $139,000!
Link to school website: https://sce.carrollcountyschools.com/home
Address: 505 Carlton Rd Palmetto, GA 30268
25. Bill Arp Elementary School – Douglasville, GA
As well as being a welcoming city and its small town nature, Douglasville was originally known as Skint Chestnut since it was located at a natural rise in the topography. It is also the home of Bill Arp Elementary School which is about 38 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
Bill Arp Elementary has a diversity score of 30 out of 40 points which means that there’s at least 3 races each making up at least 15% of the student body. Students in 4th and 5th grade are earning overall letter grades of an A.
Still, GreatSchools ranked Bill Arp Elementary a 6/10, but SchoolSparrow gives Bill Arp an A or a 10/10 ranking.
Because SchoolSparrow incorporates parent income, we were able to recognize Bill Arp Elementary’s improvement in test scores. Georgia schools with similar parent income profiles usually score 40.5 points, but Bill Arp Elementary score 24.5% higher than that with an average score of 50 points!
If that was not enough to attest to one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs, Bill Arp Elementary is trending upwards this year by over 30% compared to the previous year!
Moving near Bill Arp Elementary? The average home value in Douglasville is $215,532. This 3BD 2BA home listed for $180,000!
Address: 6550 Alexander Pkwy Douglasville, GA 30135
Website: https://baes.dcssga.org/
26. Annette Winn Elementary School – Lithia Springs, GA
In northeastern Douglas County, the city of Lithia Springs is the home of Annette Winn Elementary School. It is about 29 minutes from downtown Atlanta, and the 2018 population was 17,216.
SchoolSparrow rewards Annette Winn Elementary with an overall A or 10/10. However, GreatSchools only gives the elementary school a 6/10 which isn’t enough.
Annette Winn Elementary has a diversity score of 20, and all students in grades 3,4, and 5 are earning an overall letter grade of a B- or better.
Also, this elementary school scores an average of 39 points on standardized testing. Georgia schools with similar income profiles usually score 29.6 points, so Annette Winn Elementary was 31.7% higher than the expected average.
Looking for a home near this school? The average home list price in Lithia Springs is $230,000 or $139 per square foot. Here is a 3BD 3BA house within the school’s boundaries for only $170,000!
Address: 3536 Veterans Memorial Hwy Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Website: https://awes.dcssga.org/
27. Callaway Elementary School – Jonesboro, GA
Originally spelled “Jonesborough”, the city of Jonesboro is now known as the official home of Gone With the Wind. Along with beautiful parks and golfing centers, you will find Callaway Elementary school which is 28 minutes away Atlanta’s metro area.
Students at Callaway Elementary scored an average of 33 points on standardized tests when Georgia schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score 23.7 points. This is 39.2% higher than the expected average! And with Callaway Elementary trending upwards this year by 17% compared to the previous year, it is surely one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs.
This is why SchoolSparrow awards Callaway Elementary a 10/10 or an A, while GreatSchools severely underrates Callaway Elementary with a 4/10.
Callaway Elementary also has a diversity score of 20 points, and students in 3rd and 4th grade are making an overall letter grade of an A- or better.
If you are interested in moving your family near Callaway Elementary, the typical home value in Jonesboro is $150,776 compared to $359,900 in Atlanta. Here is a 3BD 2BA house listed for the price of $125,000!
Address: 120 Oriole Dr Jonesboro, GA 30238
Website: https://133.clayton.k12.ga.us/
28. Baldwin Elementary School – Norcross, GA
Not only is Norcross known for it’s art fests and summer concerts, the city also has multiple schools that are considered to be Out-Performers. Baldwin Elementary is one of those schools, and it is 29 minutes from downtown Atlanta.
To start with, Baldwin Elementary is trending upwards by 11%, and this means that the difference in the average score (for schools with a similar parent income profiles) and the actual score compared to last year has increased by that percentage.
Baldwin Elementary also has a diversity score of 10 points, and even though GreatSchools ranked the school a 6/10, SchoolSparrow gives Baldwin Elementary a 10/10 or an A.
Continuing with favorable stats about Baldwin Elementary, Georgia schools with similar parent income profiles tend to score 27.8 points on standardized tests. Even so, Baldwin Elementary scored 33% higher than expected with a score of 37 points.
Seeking to buy a home near Baldwin Elementary? The average home value in this zip code is $219,260 and $359,000 in Atlanta. Check out this 3BD 2BA house listed for only $195,000!
Address: 123 Price Place Norcross, GA 30071
Website: https://www.gcpsk12.org/BaldwinES
29. Sweetwater Elementary School – Lithia Springs, GA
Sweetwater Elementary is the third school located in the city of Lithia Springs and is about 23 minutes away from downtown Atlanta.
Sweetwater Elementary has a high diversity score of 30 out of 40 points, and a shout out to students in the 3rd and 4th grades are who are earning overall grades of an A-.
Atlanta area schools with similar parent income profiles normally score 32.9 points on standardized testing. Whereas, Sweetwater Elementary scored an average of 42 points, and this is 27.7% higher than expected.
Although this may be true, GreatSchools still ranked Sweetwater Elementary a 4/10, but SchoolSparrow noticed the school’s true potential and ranked Sweetwater a 10/10 or an A.
In addition to this, Sweetwater is trending upwards by 38% compared to last year. Sweetwater Elementary is one of the best schools in the Atlanta suburbs!
In search of a home near Sweetwater Elementary? The home value in this area code is $184,560 and $359,900 in the city of Atlanta. Nevertheless, here is a 3BD 2BA home listed for $173,000.
Address: 2505 E County Line Rd Lithia Springs, GA 30122
Website: https://swes.dcssga.org/
30. Brockett Elementary School – Tucker, GA
Finally, we have Brockett Elementary School which is about 28 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Located in Georgia’s DeKalb County, Tucker “is one of largest and oldest unincorporated communities in the state” according to Explore Georgia, and in 2018, the city had a population of 36,206.
With parent income factored in, SchoolSparrow ranks Brockett Elementary an A- or a 9/10, yet GreatSchools gave Brockett Elementary a 5/10. Let’s look at why this score is too low.
Coming in with 40 points, Brockett Elementary has the highest diversity score possible. This means Brockett Elementary has 3 or more races each making up at least 20% of the student body. It has been proven that diversity is beneficial to a school’s learning environment in many ways.
Atlanta area schools with similar income profiles tend to score 34.3 points. However, Brockett Elementary scored 43 points which is 25.4% higher than the expected state average. Not to mention, Brockett Elementary is trending upwards by 28% compared to last year.
If you are interested in purchasing a home near Brockett Elementary, the typical home value in Tucker, GA is around $270,000 compared to $359,900 in Atlanta. Here is a 4BD 3BA house that matches that price of $270,000.
Address: 1855 Brockett Rd Tucker, GA 30084
Website: http://brockettes.dekalb.k12.ga.us/
