For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 902 students in West Helena, AR (there are 2 private schools, serving 275 private students). 69% of all K-12 students in West Helena, AR are educated in public schools (compared to the AR state average of 95%).
The top-ranked public schools in West Helena, AR are Kipp Delta Elementary Literacy Academy and Central High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
West Helena, AR public schools have an average math proficiency score of 11% (versus the Arkansas public school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 17% (versus the 40% statewide average). Schools in West Helena have an average ranking of 1/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Arkansas public schools.
Minority enrollment is 97% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Arkansas public school average of 43% (majority Black).
Best Public Schools in West Helena, AR (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Kipp Delta Elementary Literacy Academy
Charter School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
1020 Plaza St.
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 753-9800
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 753-9800
Gr: PK-5 | 463 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 96%
Rank: #22.
Central High School
(Math: 4% | Reading: 14%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
103 School Road
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 572-6744
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 572-6744
Gr: 7-12 | 439 students Student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Minority enrollment: 99%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in West Helena, AR?
The top-ranked public schools in West Helena, AR include Kipp Delta Elementary Literacy Academy and Central High School.
How many public schools are located in West Helena?
2 public schools are located in West Helena.
What percentage of students in West Helena go to public school?
69% of all K-12 students in West Helena are educated in public schools (compared to the AR state average of 95%).
What is the racial composition of students in West Helena?
West Helena public schools minority enrollment is 97% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Arkansas public schools average of 43% (majority Black).
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