2024 Best Elementary Schools in Montana

The Complete Guide to Elementary Schools in Montana

Montana is a unique state when it comes to education and the state of its elementary schools. It has the fourth most schools per capita in the nation, but on average only scores a B, which is the same as the national average. Yet, when you look deeper, there are plenty of options for those with above average expectations.

Of the 473 elementary schools in the state, just under half (38%) are rated above average, meaning there are 180 such quality options to consider. And if you’re looking for top quartile schools in Montana, there are 105 (just 22%) that fit that description. Even then, with nearly nearly double the typical number of elementary schools per capita (73%), Montana has no shortage of quality options.

Are public elementary schools in Montana a good option?

Public elementary schools make up most of the educational landscape in Montana, with 85% of all elementary schools (401 out of 473) being public schools. This is one of the highest rates in the nation and is no surprise given the relative lack of other alternatives in the state. And there’s good news for those seeking high quality public options - 42% are rated above the national average, leaving 168 solid public options for parents to consider.

What is the best public elementary school in Montana?

The best public elementary school in Montana is East Fairview Elementary School in Fairview. It has only 80 students and an 8:1 student to teacher ratio which is actually 43% below the national average. The school is small and intimate, and it’s also graded at an A+ which makes it a top choice for parents looking for a public option.

Key statistics about charter and magnet elementary schools in Montana

Unfortunately, there are no charter schools or magnet schools in Montana. So parents should be aware that such alternative education paths aren't an option in the sate at present.

Private elementary school options in Montana

There are 72 private elementary schools throughout Montana - 19% more than most states per capita - but most are religious based (roughly 75% to be exact). These religious based private schools mostly fall under Christian purview with 39 such options being available varying from Bozeman down to Billings and everywhere between. The median grade across all these religious private elementary schools is a B+, and one example worth noting is Petra Academy located in Bozeman with 215 students enrolled. The school's student-teacher ratio of 8:1 falls 43% below the national average - making it a top choice amongst Christian private elementary schoolers.

In addition to religious-based private options, there are 18 non-religious private options although due to insufficient data they don’t have a reported grade or overall score at this time. The best non-religious private school is Missoula International School located in Missoula with 182 students enrolled and a 13:1 student-teacher ratio. This also falls 7% below the national average, which can mean students may get just a bit more attention from staff than the typcial school.

Finally, there are no all-boys or all-girls school across the state - something not too common nationwide either - so these may not be viable solutions for those seeking such options. Additionally, exclusively online schools also haven't quite hit in the state, so remote education enthusiasts will have to turn elsewhere.