Carl Smith Middle vs San Benancio Middle
A head-to-head comparison of two middle schools in California, United States, 250 km apart, using official American 2025 data. The better value in each row is highlighted.
Carl Smith Middle
Terra Bella · Public middle · Grades 6–8
262 students
San Benancio Middle
Salinas · Public middle · Grades 6–8
261 students
| Measure | Carl Smith Middle Terra Bella, California | San Benancio Middle Salinas, California |
|---|---|---|
| Success Index (US) | 14 Lower 50% | 76 Top 25% |
| State rank | #1153 of 1,334 | #125 of 1,334 |
| National rank | #14664 of 15,369 | #2214 of 15,369 |
| Sector | Public | Public |
| Type | Middle | Middle |
| Year range | Grades 6–8 | Grades 6–8 |
| Students | 262 | 261 |
| Enrollment | 262 | 261 |
| Free/reduced-price lunch | 93.1% | 10.3% |
| Students per teacher | 20.2 | 21.8 |
| Reading proficiency | 29% | 76% |
| Math proficiency | 20% | 57% |
| city | Terra Bella | Salinas |
| state | California | California |
| Website | – | – |
The verdict
- •San Benancio Middle scores higher on the Success Index (US) (75.9 vs 14.2).
- •San Benancio Middle does better on math proficiency (57% vs 20%).
- •San Benancio Middle does better on reading proficiency (76% vs 29%).
- •San Benancio Middle does better on community advantage (fewer free/reduced-price lunch) (10.3% vs 93.1%).
- •Carl Smith Middle does better on students per teacher (20.2 vs 21.8).
- •Carl Smith Middle is the larger school with 262 students compared with 261.
The Success Index (US) summarises published results and context from official data. It does not measure teaching quality or fit. Methodology.
Free academic assessment
Torn between two schools? Start with your child.
Whichever you choose, a free Success Tutoring assessment shows exactly where your child is in English and Maths and how to get ahead before the next school year.
- Personalised learning plan mapped to the Australian Curriculum
- English & Maths from Kindergarten to Year 12
- Flexible memberships, no lock-in contracts
- Centres across NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA and ACT
Frequently asked questions
Is Carl Smith Middle better than San Benancio Middle?
On the Success Index (US), San Benancio Middle ranks higher (75.9 vs 14.2 out of 100). The index is built from published results and context data, not from teaching quality or fit, so visit both schools before deciding.
How far apart are Carl Smith Middle and San Benancio Middle?
About 250 km in a straight line, between Terra Bella and Salinas in California.
Which has the better Enrollment?
Carl Smith Middle: 262. San Benancio Middle: 261. Students enrolled in the latest NCES directory year.
How do Carl Smith Middle and San Benancio Middle rank in California?
Carl Smith Middle is 1153rd of 1,334 and San Benancio Middle is 125th of 1,334 among middle schools in California on the 2025 Success Index (US).