U.S. News & World Report Ranks Georgia’s Top 10 Elementary and Middle Schools

Georgia stands out as one of the most competitive states for K-12 education in the southeastern United States. In recent years, the state has invested heavily in public schooling, emphasizing academic rigor, extracurricular activities, and technology integration. For families seeking the best possible start for their children, choosing a top-ranked elementary or middle school is essential. U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings are among the most respected resources used by parents and educators to evaluate school quality.

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Overview of Georgia’s K-12 Education Landscape

Georgia serves over 1.7million students in public elementary and middle schools, with an extensive mix of urban, suburban, and rural campuses. The state’s education system has consistently improved its performance in reading, math, and science throughout the past decade. According to recent projections, average class sizes in Georgia remain slightly lower than the national average, promoting a more personalized learning environment. State support continues to grow, with nearly 48% of public school funding originating from government sources, ensuring that investments are allocated toward academics, facilities, and student support programs.

Georgia’s schools are evaluated each year not only for test scores and graduation rates but also for student engagement, teacher quality, special programs, and access to resources. This comprehensive approach benefits both high-performing districts and those striving to close the achievement gap.

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Criteria Used by U.S. News & World Report for Rankings

U.S. News & World Report assesses schools based on several core performance indicators:

• Math and reading proficiency scores

• State assessment performance versus expectations

• Demographic diversity

• Student-teacher ratios

• School environment and safety metrics

• Rate of progress year-over-year

By collecting and analyzing these metrics, the publication offers parents a transparent, data-driven look into school quality across the state.

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Top 10 Elementary Schools in Georgia: Profiles and Highlights

Georgia’s top-ranked elementary schools consistently score above the state average on standardized testing and offer strong foundational programs for young learners. Here are profiles of some of this year’s standout institutions:

Johns Creek Elementary | Suwanee

Located in a thriving suburb, Johns Creek Elementary promotes academic excellence with an enrollment of over 1,000 students. The school boasts a 17:1 student-teacher ratio, ensuring that each child receives the necessary attention and individualized instruction.

Brookwood Elementary | Cumming

Brookwood Elementary is known for its inclusive learning environment. With a similar 17:1 student-teacher ratio and an enrollment close to 950 students, Brookwood consistently outperforms state averages on reading and math assessments.

Fairyland Elementary | Lookout Mountain

Fairyland Elementary stands out in a rural setting, providing tailored curriculum options for its smaller student body. With just 244 students and an 11:1 student-teacher ratio, the school operates with a distinctly personalized approach.

Level Creek Elementary | Suwanee

Level Creek Elementary combines academic rigor with a supportive setting. Its enrollment exceeds 1,000, and the school maintains a strong curriculum focused on science and technology integration.

Buford Senior Academy | Buford

Buford Senior Academy is recognized for its advanced curriculum designed to prepare students for middle school success. With 878 students and a 17:1 ratio, Buford’s staff is highly rated by both parents and education specialists.

Buford Academy | Buford

Serving grades 1–2, Buford Academy focuses on foundational skills in literacy and numeracy and maintains an impressive 14:1 student-teacher ratio.

Malcom Bridge Elementary School | Oconee County

With a student body of 588 and a 13:1 student-teacher ratio, Malcom Bridge offers rigorous academic programs and enrichment for gifted learners.

George W. Whitlow Elementary School | Forsyth County

This school enrolls over 1,200 students, presenting a diverse learning community with strong parent partnerships and a 13:1 ratio.

Midway Elementary School | Forsyth County

For over two decades, Midway Elementary has delivered high-quality education to 722 students, combining academic achievement with character development and extracurricular opportunities.

Johns Creek Elementary School | Forsyth County

Johns Creek’s second listing reflects the school’s consistency in delivering strong results, demonstrated by their robust test scores and community reputation.

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Top 10 Middle Schools in Georgia: Profiles and Highlights

Moving to middle schools, the rankings spotlight institutions that excel in preparing students for the academic and social challenges of high school and beyond.

Elite Scholars Academy School

As one of Georgia’s highest-ranked middle schools, Elite Scholars Academy offers advanced coursework, with a curriculum that emphasizes STEM subjects and critical thinking.

Dickerson Middle School

Dickerson Middle School distinguishes itself through high test scores, a variety of extracurricular clubs, and a supportive culture that encourages personal growth.

South Forsyth Middle School

With a focus on technology in the classroom, South Forsyth Middle School provides students with the tools and resources needed for modern learning, cultivating both academic achievement and digital skills.

North Gwinnett Middle School | Sugar Hill

Championing student leadership programs and community involvement, North Gwinnett Middle lets students engage in real-world projects and social initiatives.

Crews Middle School | Lawrenceville

Crews Middle School upholds high standards in academic instruction, with a well-rounded curriculum complemented by athletic and fine arts opportunities.

David T Howard Middle School | Atlanta

Located in the heart of Atlanta, David T Howard Middle boasts a diverse student body and exceptional scores in both math and literacy.

Atlanta Classical Academy

Atlanta Classical Academy provides a rigorous classical education, emphasizing logical reasoning, rhetoric, and the study of the humanities.

Charles Drew Charter School

Drew Charter merges rigorous academics with innovative enrichment programs such as robotics and performing arts.

International Charter School of Atlanta

The International Charter School stands out for its language immersion programs and global curriculum that prepares students for international opportunities.

Fulton Academy of Science and Technology

Fulton Academy focuses on STEM, featuring robotics labs, coding classrooms, and advanced math curriculum.

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Key Performance Metrics and Statewide Stats

Georgia’s top elementary and middle schools routinely surpass the statewide average in major academic categories. Here are some vital statistics providing context for their success:

• Average student-teacher ratio in top schools: 13–17:1

• Average annual instructional staff salary in Georgia for 2024–25: $76,250

• Projected classroom teacher salary for 2024–25: $74,177

• Average expenditure per student in 2024–25: $17,367

• Nearly 48% of school funding comes from the state government

• Federal contribution for 2024–25 is expected at 8%, with local government contributing 44.3%

These key indicators reflect a well-resourced education sector, supportive of both students and teachers.

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Comparison Table: Top Schools at a Glance

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Impact of Top Schools on Georgia’s Education Future

The presence of these top-performing schools raises standards for the entire state. Their success influences policy, drives community involvement, and attracts new residents. Strong feeder systems into high-achieving high schools further prepare students for college and career readiness.

Moreover, the achievements of these schools impact teacher recruiting, faculty retention, and professional development. School leaders are often recognized for their ability to create dynamic, engaged learning environments, and their efforts help establish best practices state-wide.

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How Parents and Students Can Benefit

Families in Georgia have significant choices when it comes to public schooling. With clear data on academic performance, student-teacher ratios, safety, and enrichment options, parents can now make better-informed decisions. Whether seeking advanced coursework, smaller class sizes, or diverse extracurricular activities, Georgia’s top-ranked schools offer compelling options for every student.

Additionally, these schools serve as models for continuous improvement. Their commitment to parental involvement, community service, and teaching innovation makes them prime destinations for families seeking excellence.

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Conclusion

Georgia’s educational landscape is distinguished by its commitment to academic rigor, student-centered programs, and equitable resources. The best elementary and middle schools, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report, are not only top performers in test scores but also leaders in creating supportive, inclusive, and innovative environments. For families, educators, and policymakers, these rankings set the bar higher each year, inspiring all stakeholders to advance Georgia’s reputation as a leading state for public education.