For the 2026 school year, there are 6 public elementary schools serving 3,096 students in 35603, AL.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 35603, AL are Priceville Elementary School, Frances Nungester Elementary School and Julian Harris Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 35603 have an average math proficiency score of 34% (versus the Alabama public elementary school average of 31%), and reading proficiency score of 49% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in 35603, AL have an average ranking of 7/10, which is in the top 50% of Alabama public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 48% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the Alabama public elementary school average of 49% (majority Black).
Best 35603, AL Public Elementary Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Priceville Elementary School
(Math: 55% | Reading: 71%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
438 Cave Springs Road
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 341-9202
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 341-9202
Gr: PK-5 | 691 students Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 13%
Rank: #2 - 32. - 3.
Frances Nungester Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
726 Tammy St Sw
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-3079
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-3079
Gr: PK-5 | 399 students Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 79%
Rank: #2 - 32. - 3.
Julian Harris Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
1922 Mcauliffe Dr Sw
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-3096
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-3096
Gr: PK-5 | 348 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 56%
Rank: #44.
Priceville Junior High School
(Math: 40% | Reading: 60%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
311 Highway 67 South
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 355-5104
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 355-5104
Gr: 5-8 | 510 students Student-teacher ratio: 20:1 Minority enrollment: 13%
Rank: #55.
Chestnut Grove Elementary School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
3205 Cedarhurst Dr Sw
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-3092
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-3092
Gr: PK-5 | 435 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 60%
Rank: #66.
Austin Middle School
(Math: 22% | Reading: 35%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
2715 Danville Rd Sw
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-4622
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 552-4622
Gr: 6-8 | 713 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 76%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 35603, AL?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 35603, AL include Priceville Elementary School, Frances Nungester Elementary School and Julian Harris Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 35603?
6 public elementary schools are located in 35603.
What is the racial composition of students in 35603?
35603 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 48% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the Alabama public elementary schools average of 49% (majority Black).
Recent Articles
Do We Still Need Libraries in Public Schools in 2026
An updated look at the role of public school libraries in 2026, their impact on literacy, equity, and digital learning, and why they remain essential today.
The History of Public Schools in the United States
Explore the history of public schools in the U.S., from colonial roots to 2026 reforms shaping equity, funding, and classroom innovation.
Special-Program Registration Deadlines Explained
Learn what to know about special-program registration deadlines for magnet, CTE, and dual-enrollment options in public schools.