Southdale Elementary School

Southdale Elementary School serves 562 students in grades PK through 6 in Cedar Falls, Iowa, earning recognition as one of the state's top-performing elementary schools. With a ranking of #124 out of 1,288 Iowa schools, placing it in the 90th percentile, Southdale demonstrates strong academic achievement across all grade levels. The school's 37 full-time equivalent teachers maintain a favorable 15.2:1 student-teacher ratio, contributing to an environment where students excel academically.

Reading and language arts instruction particularly shines, with 90% of students achieving proficiency or above across all grades. Mathematics performance is also solid, with 79% of students meeting or exceeding proficiency standards. Located on Orchard Drive in the 50613 ZIP code area, Southdale serves a well-established community where 48% of residents hold bachelor's degrees or higher.

The neighborhood reflects middle-class stability, with a median household income of $72,239 and median home values around $250,000. This educated community of over 43,000 residents supports the school's academic mission and high expectations for student achievement. Southdale Elementary combines strong academic outcomes with the advantages of small-city living, offering families both educational excellence and the close-knit community feel that characterizes Cedar Falls.