Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School, a Title I eligible public school in Gadsden, AL, closed in 2005 and historically served grades K through 5 with enrollment around 158 students and a student–teacher ratio of 11:1.
Prior to closure, math proficiency declined sharply from 65% in 2012 to 14% in 2023, remaining lower than the state average of 30% in 2023.
Reading proficiency also decreased from 81% in 2012 to 40% in 2022, consistently falling below the Alabama state average of 47%.
The school showed a high percentage of students eligible for free lunch, increasing from 58% in 2001 to 79% by its closing year, indicating rising socioeconomic challenges.
Jessie Dean Smith Elementary comprised predominantly White (68%) and Black (30%) student populations before closing, with steady enrollment near 158 students in its final years.
School Overview
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-5
Total Students
158 students
Total Classroom Teachers
15 teachers
School Rankings
Student-Teacher Ratio
11:1
17:1
American Indian
2%
1%
Asian
n/a
1%
Hispanic
n/a
11%
Black
30%
32%
White
68%
51%
Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
n/a
4%
All Ethnic Groups
Eligible for Free Lunch
79%
56%
Eligible for Reduced Lunch
4%
5%
School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Gadsden City School District
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AL Dept. of Education
Frequently Asked Questions
How many students attend Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School?
158 students attend Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
68% of Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School students are White, 30% of students are Black, and 2% of students are American Indian.
What is the student-teacher ratio of Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School?
Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School has a student ration of 11:1, which is lower than the Alabama state average of 17:1.
What grades does Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School offer ?
Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School offers enrollment in grades Kindergarten-5
What school district is Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School part of?
Jessie Dean Smith Elementary School is part of Gadsden City School District.
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