Forest Avenue Elementary School

Forest Avenue Academic Magnet (FAAM) is a distinguished K-5 magnet elementary school in Montgomery, Alabama, located at 1700 West Fifth Street. It delivers an accelerated curriculum in reading, spelling, English, and mathematics, and enriches science and social studies via lab experiences, field trips, and site visits. FAAM serves approximately 750 students who work one grade-level ahead in core subjects. The school offers specialized instruction in Spanish, computer technology, art, music, physical education, special education, and speech therapy. Outdoor learning features gardens, a turtle habitat, a fish pond, and a courtyard living science lab. Built in the 1920s with modern expansion in 2001, FAAM includes 35 classroom teachers and support specialists. Admission is by application and open to all Montgomery County students.

Lindsay Norris, a teacher at Forest Avenue, was selected among the Top 16 finalists for the 2025-2026 Alabama Teacher of the Year.

Forest Avenue students shone in the 4th annual VEXGO Elementary Robotics Competition, showing STEM creativity and earning strong recognition.

Q1: What are the school’s academic performance metrics in reading and math?

A: According to recent data, about 92% of FAAM students are proficient in reading and 77% are proficient in math as per state assessments.

Q2: What is the student-teacher ratio and enrollment size?

A: FAAM enrolls about 613-750 students in grades K to 5, with a student-teacher ratio near 16:1.

Q3: How is admission handled and who is eligible to apply?

A: Admission to FAAM is by application and selection; any student residing in Montgomery County may apply. The magnet program uses a process managed by the district.

Q4: What kinds of specialized facilities and enrichment programs does FAAM provide?

A: Students benefit from specialized instruction (Spanish, art, music, tech), science labs, a living science lab (with gardens, fish pond, turtle habitat), outdoor courtyards, and frequent field trips.

Q5: What is the school’s rating compared to other elementary schools in the area?

A: Forest Avenue is highly rated: it has a 10/10 GreatSchools rating, strong state assessment proficiency, and is often ranked among the top magnet elementary schools in Montgomery County.