For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 359 students in 81428, CO.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 81428, CO are North Fork School Of Integrated Studies and Paonia K-8. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 81428 have an average math proficiency score of 49% (versus the Colorado public elementary school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 61% (versus the 43% statewide average). Elementary schools in 81428, CO have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Colorado public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public elementary school average of 51% (majority Hispanic).
Best 81428, CO Public Elementary Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
North Fork School Of Integrated Studies
Magnet School
(Math: 50-59% | Reading: 50-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
430 Box Elder
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Gr: PK-6 | 112 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 14%
Rank: #22.
Paonia K-8
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
430 Box Elder
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Gr: PK-8 | 247 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 19%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 81428, CO?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 81428, CO include North Fork School Of Integrated Studies and Paonia K-8.
How many public elementary schools are located in 81428?
2 public elementary schools are located in 81428.
What is the racial composition of students in 81428?
81428 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public elementary schools average of 51% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Media Literacy as a Core Skill: How to Tell if a School Teaches It Well
Learn how to evaluate whether a public school teaches media literacy effectively, from fact-checking and source evaluation to digital citizenship and critical thinking.
Screen Time, Paper Learning, and the New Back-to-Basics Debate
Explore why some public schools are reducing screen time, bringing back paper learning, and rethinking the balance between technology and traditional instruction.
Student Data, AI Tools, and Privacy: Questions to Ask Your District
Learn how public schools use AI, protect student data, and the key privacy questions every parent should ask their school district in 2026.