Serving 461 students in grades Prekindergarten-5, Bester Elementary School ranks in the bottom 50% of all schools in Maryland for overall test scores (math proficiency is bottom 50%, and reading proficiency is bottom 50%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 19% (which is lower than the Maryland state average of 25%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 23% (which is lower than the Maryland state average of 45%).
The student:teacher ratio of 11:1 is lower than the Maryland state level of 14:1.
Minority enrollment is 68% of the student body (majority Black), which is equal to the Maryland state average of 68% (majority Black).
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-5
- Enrollment: 461 students
- Student:Teacher Ratio: 11:1
- Minority Enrollment: 68%
- Overall Testing Rank: Bottom 50% in MD
- Math Proficiency: 19% (Btm 50%)
- Reading Proficiency: 23% (Btm 50%)
- Science Proficiency: 15-19% (Btm 50%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), MD Dept. of Education
Top Rankings
Bester Elementary School ranks among the top 20% of public schools in Maryland for:
Category
Attribute
Most improved public schools
Diversity
Percent Eligible For Free Lunch
Student Attention
School Overview
Bester Elementary School's student population of 461 students has declined by 24% over five school years.
The teacher population of 42 teachers has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-5
(offers virtual instruction)
(offers virtual instruction)
Total Students
461 students
Gender %
Total Classroom Teachers
42 teachers
Students by Grade
School Rankings
Bester Elementary School ranks within the bottom 50% of all 1,347 schools in Maryland (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Bester Elementary School is 0.75, which is more than the diversity score at state average of 0.74. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#923 out of 1347 schools
(Bottom 50%)
(Bottom 50%)
Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
19%
25%
Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
23%
45%
Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
15-19%
36%
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
14:1
American Indian
n/a
n/a
Asian
n/a
7%
Hispanic
21%
23%
Black
27%
33%
White
32%
32%
Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
20%
5%
All Ethnic Groups
Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
83%
44%
Eligible for Reduced Lunch
6%
5%
School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), MD Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bester Elementary School's ranking?
Bester Elementary School is ranked #923 out of 1,347 schools, which ranks it among the bottom 50% of public schools in Maryland.
What schools are Bester Elementary School often compared to?
Bester Elementary Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Boonsboro Elementary School, Cascade Elementary School by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
19% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 25% MD state average), while 23% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 45% MD state average).
How many students attend Bester Elementary School?
461 students attend Bester Elementary School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
32% of Bester Elementary School students are White, 27% of students are Black, 21% of students are Hispanic, and 20% of students are Two or more races.
What is the student:teacher ratio of Bester Elementary School?
Bester Elementary School has a student ration of 11:1, which is lower than the Maryland state average of 14:1.
What grades does Bester Elementary School offer ?
Bester Elementary School offers enrollment in grades Prekindergarten-5 (offers virtual instruction).
What school district is Bester Elementary School part of?
Bester Elementary School is part of Washington County School District.
School Reviews
Review Bester Elementary School. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
Recent Articles
What Is A Charter School?
Explore the world of charter schools in this comprehensive guide. Learn about their history, how they operate, and the pros and cons of this educational innovation. Discover key facts about charter schools, including admission policies, demographics, and funding, as well as what to look for when considering a charter school for your child.
10 Reasons Why High School Sports Benefit Students
Discover the 10 compelling reasons why high school sports are beneficial for students. This comprehensive article explores how athletics enhance academic performance, foster personal growth, and develop crucial life skills. From improved fitness and time management to leadership development and community representation, learn why participating in high school sports can be a game-changer for students' overall success and well-being.
February 05, 2025
Understanding the U.S. Department of Education: Structure, Impact, and EvolutionWe explore how the Department of Education shapes American education, from its cabinet-level leadership to its impact on millions of students, written for general audiences seeking clarity on this vital institution.
