For the 2026-27 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 1,310 students in 81520, CO.
The top-ranked public schools in 81520, 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.
Public schools in zipcode 81520 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 81520, CO 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 81520, CO Public Schools (2026-27)
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 81520, CO?
The top-ranked public schools in 81520, CO include Mount Garfield Middle School, Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Clifton Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 81520?
3 public schools are located in 81520.
What is the racial composition of students in 81520?
81520 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).
Recent Articles
How Often Does Your Child's School Change Teachers Between Grade Levels?
Learn how teacher movement between grade levels affects continuity, experience, instruction, and school stability, plus the questions parents should ask about staffing patterns before choosing a public school today.
The School Pickup Test: What Arrival and Dismissal Reveal About a Public School
Discover what school arrival and dismissal reveal about safety, supervision, organization, communication, student behavior, transportation, and school climate before choosing the right public school for your child and family.
Should Siblings Attend the Same Public School?
Should siblings attend the same public school? Learn when academic needs, learning styles, programs, social fit, support services, and individual interests may make different schools better choices for children.