Missouri is home to some special school districts that provide just that. Whether you're looking to relocate to Missouri or searching for a new school for your children, navigating the options can be overwhelming.
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That’s where we come in. We’ve compiled a list of Missouri’s 10 best school district, each with unique strengths and benefits. From innovative academic programs to exceptional extracurricular activities, we’ll provide all the information to help you make an informed decision.
| School District | Average Math Proficiency Score | Average Reading Proficiency Score |
|---|---|---|
| School District of Clayton | 71% | 74% |
| Ladue School District | 70% | 72% |
| Kirkwood School District | 66% | 73% |
| Rockwood R-VI School District | 58% | 66% |
| Brentwood School District | 68% | 67% |
| Blue Springs R-IV School District | 55% | 60% |
| Parkway School District | 49% | 62% |
| Lee's Summit R-VII School District | 46% | 55% |
| Webster Groves School District | 56% | 67% |
| Maplewood-Richmond Heights School District | 40% | 56% |
1. School District of Clayton
Located in St. Louis County, Missouri, the district encompasses all or part of the following communities: Clayton, Ladue, Richmond Heights, University City, and unincorporated areas of St. Louis County. Mission: To inspire students to love learning and embrace challenges within a rich and rigorous academic culture.
- Total schools: 5
- Elementary: 2
- Middle school: 1
- High School: 1
- Number of Students Served: 2514
- Average graduation rate: 99%
- Student-teacher ratio: 11:1
- Average SAT Score: 1310
- Average ACT Score: 30
2. Ladue School District
Cities of Ladue, Frontenac, and Olivette, as well as parts of Creve Coeur, Huntleigh, and Town and Country, come under Ladue School District. The district also accepts a limited number of tuition students from other nearby communities on a space-available basis. Mission: Challenging all students to excel in ways that nurture their individual talents and skills. Inspiring each student to become a responsible and contributing member of a global society.
- Total schools: 8
- Elementary: 6
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
- Number of Students Served: 4,325
- Average graduation rate: 99%
- Student-teacher ratio: 13:1
- Average SAT Score: 1450
- Average ACT Score: 29
3. Kirkwood School District
The schools in this district are known to provide a high-quality education that prepares students for success in life. Kirkwood School District offers education to students primarily from the city of Kirkwood and portions of Des Peres, Oakland, and Sunset Hills. Mission: To strengthen, enhance and encourage the educational and social environment of all students.
Website: kirkwoodschools.org/ksd
Location: 11289 MANCHESTER RD KIRKWOOD, MO 63122
Phone: (314) 213-6101
- Total schools: 9
- Elementary: 6
- Middle school: 2
- High school: 1
- Number of Students Served: 6,072
- Average graduation rate: 98%
- Student-teacher ratio: 15:1
- Average SAT Score: 1290
- Average ACT Score: 28
4. Rockwood R-VI School District
The district is 150 square miles in size and stretches across parts of Franklin, Jefferson, and St. Louis county, Jefferson County, and Franklin County. Some of the specific cities and communities served by the district include Wildwood, Chesterfield, Ballwin, Fenton, Eureka, and Pacific. Mission: Provide a meaningful, challenging education that connects all students to learning and honors their unique gifts.
- Total schools: 30
- Elementary: 20
- Middle school: 6
- High school: 4
- Number of Students Served: 19,822
- Average graduation rate: 95%
- Student-teacher ratio: 14:1
- Average SAT Score: 1340
- Average ACT Score: 28
5. Brentwood School District
A small school district in the St. Louis metropolitan area of Missouri, it covers an area of about 1.25 square miles and is a good option for residents of Brentwood and parts of the neighboring city of Maplewood. The Brentwood School District has a low student-to-teacher ratio and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, individualized attention to students, and a strong sense of community. Mission: To empower and support students with meaningful relationships that allow them to thrive and become positive forces of change.
Website: brentwoodmoschools.org
Location: 1201 HANLEY INDUSTRIAL COURT BRENTWOOD, MO 63144
Phone: (314) 962-4507
- Total schools: 5
- Elementary: 3
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
- Number of Students Served: 776
- Average graduation rate: 95%
- Student-teacher ratio: 10:1
- Average SAT Score: 1250
- Average ACT Score: 26
6. Blue Springs R-IV School District
The Blue Springs School District is a prominent educational institution situated in Blue Springs, Missouri, within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Renowned for its dedication to academic excellence and student success, the district serves a diverse student population and offers a comprehensive array of educational opportunities and extracurricular activities to foster well-rounded development. Mission: The mission of the Blue Springs School District, the champion for personal growth, is to ensure every student develops the skills and dispositions to thrive in a global community as a productive and collaborative citizen through innovative education distinguished by:- rigorous, accessible learning experiences
- diverse opportunities for involvement and leadership
- community partnerships that engage and support students and their families.
- Total schools: 21
- Elementary: 13
- Middle school: 4
- High school: 4
- Number of Students Served: 14767
- Average graduation rate: 95%
- Student-teacher ratio: 16:1
- Average SAT Score: 1240
- Average ACT Score: 26
7. Parkway School District
The Parkway School District is a well-regarded educational institution located in the St. Louis metropolitan area of Missouri. Known for its commitment to providing high-quality education, the district serves a diverse community of students and offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs to help students achieve their full potential. Mission: To ensure all students are capable, curious, caring and confident learners who understand and respond to the challenges of an ever-changing world.
Image Source: https://www.parkwayschools.net/
- Total schools: 28
- Elementary: 19
- Middle school: 5
- High school: 4
- Number of Students Served: 16975
- Average graduation rate: 92%
- Student-teacher ratio: 14:1
- Average SAT Score: 1320
- Average ACT Score: 28
8. Lee’s Summit R-VII School District
The Lee’s Summit R-7 School District covers 117 square miles and is known nationwide for its excellent educational programs and dedication to students’ achievements. Situated in the southeastern part of the Kansas City metropolitan area, this district serves Lee’s Summit, Greenwood, Lake Lotawana, Lake Winnebago, and nearby areas in eastern Jackson County. It also includes a small part of Blue Springs and Kansas City. Mission: Sustaining positive relationships among students, staff, families and community members. Ensuring a rigorous and relevant learning experience that leads to success for each student. Partnering with students in identifying and achieving their learning goals. Continuing a safe and caring environment.
Website: https://www.lsr7.org/
Location: 301 N.E. Tudor Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64086
Phone: 816-986-1000
- Total schools: 25
- Elementary: 18
- Middle school: 4
- High school: 3
- Number of Students Served: 17844
- Average graduation rate: 96%
- Student-teacher ratio: 14:1
- Average SAT Score: 1250
- Average ACT Score: 26
9. Webster Groves School District
Webster University was founded in 1915. It wants to make sure students have great learning experiences that help them become a global citizen and excel as an individual. Achieve a balance between your work and personal life by taking courses designed for modern students. Mission: Achieve Academic Excellence Through High-Quality Learning Experiences.
Website: webster.k12.mo.us/wgsd
Location: 400 E LOCKWOOD AVE WEBSTER GROVES, MO 63119
Phone:(314-961-1233
- Total schools: 9
- Elementary: 7
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
- Number of Students Served: 4486
- Average graduation rate: 94%
- Student-teacher ratio: 13:1
- Average SAT Score: 1280
- Average ACT Score: 27
10. Maplewood-Richmond Heights School District
In recent years, MRH has made remarkable strides, thanks to dedicated educators, top-notch facilities, and a demanding curriculum. They lead the way in social justice and culturally responsive teaching, setting a high standard. They’re pioneering one-to-one laptop program at the secondary level showcases our commitment to 21st-century learning. MRH students acquire enduring leadership skills through courses, student government, off-site training, and advisory groups, ensuring lifelong success. Mission: Inspire and equip students to become leaders, scholars, stewards, and responsible citizens. These four pillars are the foundation of MRH district’s educational philosophy.
Website: https://www.mrhschools.net/MRH
Location: 2650 S HANLEY RD STE 300 MAPLEWOOD, MO 63144
Phone: 314-644-4400
- Total schools: 4
- Elementary: 2
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
- Number of Students Served: 1407
- Average graduation rate: 95%
- Student-teacher ratio: 11:1
- Total schools: 4
- Elementary: 2
- Middle school: 1
- High school: 1
Moonpreneur
The essential information would help you make an informed decision about choosing the right school district for your child and family, however, in addition to the data sets shared above.
There are three other crucial factors to consider when searching for the top school districts in Missouri such as:
1. Academic performance
Look for school districts with a strong history of academic achievement and high test scores. Additionally, smaller class sizes provide a more personalized and practical learning environment for your child.
2. Parent involvement and communication with the school
Look for a school that encourages and facilitates parent involvement through various activities and events, such as parent-teacher conferences, volunteer opportunities, and open communication channels.
Such initiatives can help you stay informed about your child’s progress, learning needs, and any challenges they may be facing.
3. Access to the latest technology
Consider the school district’s technology resources when selecting a school for your child, as access to educational technology can greatly enhance their learning experience and ensure they stay competitive in the digital age.
To make it further easier, we have compiled a table providing information about the top school districts in Missouri.
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Update: This article was last updated on 2nd Nov 2023 to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
What are the different types of school districts in Missouri?
There are three different types of school districts in Missouri: common school districts, charter schools, and county special schools.
Common school districts are the most common type of school district in Missouri. They are governed by a school board and are funded by a combination of state and local taxes.
Charter schools are public schools that are independently operated. They are exempt from some state regulations and have more flexibility in their curriculum and programs.
County special schools are schools that are operated by the county government. They are typically for students with special needs
How many school districts are there in Missouri?
There are 511 school districts in Missouri.