For the 2026-27 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 1,023 students in 72542, AR.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 72542, AR are Highland Middle School and Cherokee Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 72542 have an average math proficiency score of 59% (versus the Arkansas public elementary school average of 45%), and reading proficiency score of 52% (versus the 40% statewide average). Elementary schools in 72542, AR have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Arkansas public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 6% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the Arkansas public elementary school average of 43% (majority Black).
Best 72542, AR Public Elementary Schools (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Highland Middle School
(Math: 59% | Reading: 54%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
1921 Hwy 62-412
Hardy, AR 72542
(870) 856-3284
Hardy, AR 72542
(870) 856-3284
Gr: 5-8 | 442 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 6%
Rank: #22.
Cherokee Elementary School
(Math: 60% | Reading: 47%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
169 Rebel Dr
Hardy, AR 72542
(870) 257-3118
Hardy, AR 72542
(870) 257-3118
Gr: PK-4 | 581 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 5%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 72542, AR?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 72542, AR include Highland Middle School and Cherokee Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 72542?
2 public elementary schools are located in 72542.
What is the racial composition of students in 72542?
72542 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 6% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the Arkansas public elementary schools average of 43% (majority Black).
Recent Articles
Can Your Child Get Into School Clubs and Activities?
Discover whether your child can access advertised school clubs and activities, including enrollment limits, tryouts, fees, transportation, scheduling conflicts, and essential questions parents should ask before choosing schools today.
Who Supervises Students When Their Teacher Is Out?
Discover who supervises students when regular teachers are absent, how schools arrange classroom coverage, what qualifications substitutes need, and which questions parents should ask about safety and learning continuity.
When the School Nurse Isn't There: Parent Guide
Learn what happens when school nurses are absent, how public schools handle medications and emergencies, and which essential questions parents should ask to protect their children's health and safety daily.