Research done by Cheri Pierson Yecke for the Thomas B. Fordham Institute discussed results from separate studies in Philadelphia, Milwaukee, and Baltimore concerning academic achievements in different school models.
All three studies demonstrated quantifiable positive results when comparing the outcomes of students who attended PreK-8 schools versus the traditional PreK-5 then 6-8 environment. Students showed higher academic achievement and significantly higher scores on standardized tests. They also had higher levels of participation in extracurricular activities, and demonstrated greater leadership skills. They were more likely to be enrolled in selective high school programs and demonstrated a higher GPA in 9th grade.