For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 1,310 students in Clifton, CO.
The top-ranked public schools in Clifton, CO are Mount Garfield Middle School, Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Clifton Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Clifton, CO public schools have an average math proficiency score of 14% (versus the Colorado public school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 31% (versus the 45% statewide average). Schools in Clifton have an average ranking of 2/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Colorado public schools.
Minority enrollment is 42% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public school average of 51% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Clifton, CO (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Mount Garfield Middle School
(Math: 15% | Reading: 38%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
3475 Front Street
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4720
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4720
Gr: 6-8 | 569 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 40%
Rank: #22.
Rocky Mountain Elementary School
(Math: 14% | Reading: 22%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
3260 D1/2 Road
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4900
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4900
Gr: PK-5 | 395 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 46%
Rank: #33.
Clifton Elementary School
(Math: 10-14% | Reading: 15-19%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
3276 F Road
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4760
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4760
Gr: PK-5 | 346 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 40%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Clifton, CO?
The top-ranked public schools in Clifton, CO include Mount Garfield Middle School, Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Clifton Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Clifton?
3 public schools are located in Clifton.
What is the racial composition of students in Clifton?
Clifton public schools minority enrollment is 42% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public schools average of 51% (majority Hispanic).
Which public schools in Clifton are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Clifton include: Rocky Mountain Elementary School vs. Clifton Elementary School, Clifton Elementary School vs. Rocky Mountain Elementary School
Recent Articles
The School Choice Comparison Worksheet: 15 Factors Beyond Test Scores
Compare public schools with confidence using this 15-factor worksheet that looks beyond test scores to school culture, programs, safety, and student support.
Boundary Changes and Rezoning: How to Protect Your Child's School Plan
Learn why school boundary changes happen, how rezoning affects families, and the practical steps parents can take to protect their child's educational plan.
Teacher Turnover: How to Read the Warning Signs
Learn how to identify warning signs of teacher turnover, what causes frequent staff changes, and how parents can evaluate school stability.