Idaho, the Gem State, is known for its picturesque landscapes, including rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and vast swaths of forestland. Yet beyond its natural beauty, Idaho is also home to some of the best educational opportunities in the region. The state has 756 public schools serving over 308,800 students.
For many students and parents, finding the right school is a crucial decision that can profoundly impact their lives. A good school provides quality education, fosters personal growth and community engagement, and prepares students for success in the real world. However, the right school for each student is often a matter of individual needs and preferences.
In this article, we will showcase some of the top schools in Idaho. We base our list on factors such as academic excellence, student satisfaction, and community involvement. We also considered parent reviews and GreatSchools.org test scores.
Here are the 10 best schools in Idaho, ranked in ascending order.
Best Elementary Schools
Fairview Elementary School
979 E 97th N, Idaho Falls, ID 83401
Fairview Elementary School is a public school in Idaho within the Bonneville Joint District. It caters to students ranging from pre-kindergarten to sixth grade and has a current enrollment of 322 students.
The school has an experienced teaching staff. The student-teacher ratio is 24:1, slightly higher than the state average of 18:1. Despite that, 79% of teachers have at least three years of experience. Further, all full-time teachers are certified. That ensures that students receive the highest quality of education.
Fairview Elementary School values diversity and inclusivity, with a student population consisting of 79% white and 7% Hispanic students. Also, the school strives to create a cooperative, interactive, and challenging learning environment that caters to the needs of all learners.
Parents praise Fairview Elementary School for the quality of education it provides and the dedication of its teachers. Further, the school's flexible enrollment policy and opportunities for students to design their specialized educational path make it an attractive choice for families in the community.
Fairview Elementary School is one of the top schools in Idaho. It offers exceptional academic performance, experienced teachers, and an inclusive community.
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North Idaho STEM Charter Academy
15633 N Meyer Rd, Rathdrum, ID 83858
The North Idaho STEM Charter Academy offers an exemplary education to students of all ages, from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Enrollment sits at 593 students. Located in Rathdrum and emphasizing the exciting fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), this unique school provides a stimulating learning environment for children ready to take on any challenge.
North Idaho STEM Charter Academy stands out for its lofty academic aspirations and commitment to cultivating critical thinking skills. Moreover, the school has impressive standardized test scores that demonstrate their students outperform the average. With that, this school has proven itself as a leader in providing top-notch education and preparation for future success.
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 24:1, consistent with the state average. Moreover, 90% of the teachers have at least three years of experience. Also, all full-time teachers at the school are certified. The student body is 89% white, with 5% Hispanic and 4% identifying as two or more races.
Parent reviews of the school are overwhelmingly positive. In fact, many note the strong work ethic, personal discipline, and high character instilled in students. Reviews also praise the school's leadership for exemplifying these values and balancing grace and truth.
North Idaho STEM Charter Academy offers a challenging and supportive academic environment that prepares students to be successful and productive citizens. This makes it one of the best schools in Idaho.
Paramount Elementary School
550 W Producer Dr, Meridian, ID 83646
Paramount Elementary School is a vibrant public school in the heart of Idaho. It has an enrollment of 590 students from kindergarten to fifth grade. It strives to ensure that its diverse student body receives quality education and resources for them to reach their highest potential.
The school is highly rated, with a 10 out of 10 on GreatSchools.org. That score is a testament to their passionate staff and administrators, who create an excellent student environment. From music classes to drama productions, there is a diverse array of courses on offer. Specifically, such courses as Mandarin language classes are included, giving pupils plenty of options for engaging in new subjects. Additionally, Paramount Elementary provides opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities. Activities include choir and various clubs, all of which enrich their educational experience.
Paramount Elementary boasts a low student-teacher ratio of 21:1, allowing for more personalized attention and support for each student. The school also has a team of highly qualified and certified teachers. In fact, 100% of its full-time teaching staff meet those qualifications. Additionally, the school employs a part-time nurse and a part-time psychologist.
Parents of students at Paramount Elementary rave about the quality of education and character-building their children receive. Many parents are so impressed with the school that they have chosen to enroll their children, even if it is not their neighborhood school.
The school's flexible enrollment policy and opportunities for students to design their specialized educational path make it an attractive choice for families in the community.
Galileo Math & Science Magnet
4735 W Saguaro Dr, Eagle, ID 83616
Galileo Math & Science Magnet is a highly regarded public school in Eagle, ID, serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade. With an enrollment of 785 students, the school is committed to delivering an exceptional education that helps students achieve their full potential.
Galileo Math & Science Magnet students have provided evidence of remarkable academic progression compared to peers in the state. Their comprehensive program covering math, English, and science is reflected in their impressive proficiency ratings, which stand at 76% for both English and science, as well as 85% for mathematics.
In addition to solid academics, Galileo Math & Science Magnet offers a variety of games and activities for students to participate in. The student population is predominantly white (87%), with 7% identifying as Hispanic and 4% identifying as two or more races. The school has a welcoming and supportive environment where all students are respected, included, and celebrated for their unique qualities and backgrounds.
Parents overwhelmingly support Galileo Math & Science Magnet, applauding the fantastic teachers and staff for their commitment to providing a challenging academic experience within an encouraging atmosphere. Galileo is truly one of the best schools in Idaho.
Best Middle Schools
Victory Middle School
920 W Kodiak Dr, Meridian, ID 83642
Victory Middle School is a public school in Meridian, ID, serving students in grades 6-8. Part of the Joint School District No. 2, Victory Middle School is committed to providing an exceptional education that prepares students for success in their future endeavors
Moreover, the school boasts high standardized test scores, with students achieving proficiency rates of 82% in English, 70% in math, 76% in science, and 63% in integrated math. These scores are far above the state average, indicating that Victory Middle School provides a rigorous and effective academic program.
The school's commitment to providing a well-rounded education is demonstrated by its staff. Specifically, Victory Middle School has a full-time nurse, a part-time psychologist, and a full-time law enforcement officer. The school's website also emphasizes the importance of partnerships between staff, students, parents, and the community in achieving high levels of learning for all students and preparing them for their future.
The focus is on academic excellence and commitment to student success. Given that, it is no surprise that Victory Middle School has earned a reputation as one of the best schools in Idaho.
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Idaho Fine Arts Academy
915 E Central Dr, Meridian, ID 83642
Idaho Fine Arts Academy is an excellent public school in the West Ada School District of Idaho. Established in 2014, the school provides a unique and enriching educational experience for students in grades 5-12. With an enrollment of 1,214 students, the school has a small student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1, which is lower than the state average of 18:1.
The Idaho Fine Arts Academy has a 10/10 rating from GreatSchools.org, indicating that students at this school are making significant academic progress compared to similar students in the state. The school's standardized test scores are far above the state average Students perform exceptionally well in math, English, and science, in fact.
The Idaho Fine Arts Academy offers students a range of courses focusing on the arts and core academic content. Students are placed via audition into one of five possible majors: dance, theatre, classical or contemporary instrumental music, vocal music, or visual arts.
The Idaho Fine Arts Academy is one of the top-rated public schools in Idaho, providing students with a unique and enriching educational experience centered around the arts and core academic content.
Heritage Middle School
4990 North Meridian Road, Meridian, ID 83646
Heritage Middle School is a public school serving grades 6-8 with an enrollment of 1,258 students. The school has received a 10/10 rating from GreatSchools.org, indicating its excellent quality of education.
In terms of proficiency, 80% of students attain math proficiency, 74% attain English proficiency, and 72% achieving science proficiency. The school also offers good extracurricular options, with various activities catering to diverse interests.
Heritage Middle School strongly emphasizes parental involvement, and the staff works hard to build partnerships with the community. Parents appreciate the caring and supportive environment the school provides, with teachers going above and beyond to ensure their students' success.
Heritage Middle School is an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded education with a supportive community. A former parent praised the teachers, too, describing them as impressive and caring about the students. The staff also received positive feedback for their responsiveness and willingness to communicate with parents.
Heritage Middle School provides a solid foundation for students to achieve their academic goals.
Best High Schools
Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy
4904 N Duncan Dr, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815
Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy is an exemplary educational institution that provides a stimulating and academically rigorous experience for students in grades 6-12. The school offers 13 AP courses and several world language options, such as French, Latin, and Spanish. Additionally, students can participate in various clubs, including chess and music courses.
The faculty at Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy are highly qualified and dedicated, with 94% of teachers having at least three years of experience and 100% of full-time teachers being certified. The student-teacher ratio of 21:1 is slightly higher than the state average, but the quality of instruction is not compromised.
From the school's website, it is clear that Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy School prioritizes academic excellence and aims to ensure that its graduates are knowledgeable and proficient language users.
The school's educational goals and objectives emphasize the importance of success in school, participation in democracy, finding challenging and rewarding work, contributing to culture, and pursuing lifelong learning.
Renaissance High School
1307 E Central Dr, Meridian, ID 83642, United States
Renaissance High School is a public school located in Joint School District No. 2, offering education to students in grades 9-12. With an enrollment of 742, the school prides itself on providing an excellent learning experience for all students.
GreatSchools.org gave Renaissance High School a perfect score of 10/10, indicating its high level of academic achievement. Further, the school is above the state average in key college and career readiness measures. Specifically, 90% of students attain math proficiency and 94% attain science proficiency. Also, the school's SAT/ACT participation rate is 20%, and its SAT/ACT readiness rate is an impressive 75%. AP course participation is at 7%.
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 17:1, which is slightly lower than the state average of 18:1. Additionally, 88% of the school's teachers have at least three years of experience, and all full-time teachers are certified. The school also has a part-time nurse and a full-time security guard.
Parents of Renaissance High School students speak highly of the school's dedicated teachers and the quality of education that their children receive. The school aims to foster student inquiry and develop skilled, knowledgeable, compassionate, and principled contributors within local and global communities.
Renaissance High School commits to developing its capacity as a professional learning community, ensuring all students receive the best possible education. That makes it a best of the schools in Idaho.
Camas County High School
610 Soldier Rd, Fairfield, ID 83327, United States
Camas County High School is a public school in Fairfield, ID, serving students in grades 9-12. With an enrollment of 45 students, the school provides a small and intimate learning environment that fosters personalized attention and individualized support.
Despite its small size, Camas County High School has established a reputation for academic excellence, receiving a 10/10 rating from GreatSchools.org and being far above the state average in key college and career readiness measures.
The school also commits to providing students with opportunities to excel beyond the classroom. Camas County High School offers athletics programs. Included are basketball and volleyball, which help students develop teamwork skills, leadership, and physical fitness. Additionally, the school strongly focuses on college and career readiness, with 50% of students enrolled in Dual Enrollment classes in grades 9-12 and 3% participating in AP math courses.
87% of the student body at Camas County High School identify as white, and 11% identify as Hispanic. The school also has a high percentage of experienced and certified teachers. Moreover, 100% of full-time teachers meet certification requirements and have at least three years of experience.
Parents express their satisfaction with the school's dedicated staff and its approach to learning, which is focused yet joyful. Here, students also have access to a part-time nurse and a safe learning environment. Faculty dedication and a small student body ensure Camas County is one of the best schools in Idaho.
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Finding the Right School for Your Child in Idaho
Idaho is a state that places great value on providing quality education and unique learning experiences. With its wide range of schools, it's no surprise graduates achieve success in their chosen paths. From small student-to-faculty ratios to diverse program offerings. Whatever your educational needs are, this U.S. State has something for you. Discover which school best fits your ambitions and explore what schools in Idaho can provide today.
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