For the 2025 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 371 students in 81428, CO.
The top ranked public elementary schools in 81428, CO are North Fork School Of Integrated Studies and Paonia K-8. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 81428 have an average math proficiency score of 49% (versus the Colorado public elementary school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 61% (versus the 43% statewide average). Elementary schools in 81428, CO have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Colorado public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 16% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public elementary school average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Best 81428, CO Public Elementary Schools (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
North Fork School Of Integrated Studies
Magnet School
(Math: 50-59% | Reading: 50-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
430 Box Elder
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Gr: PK-6 | 119 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 12%
Rank: #22.
Paonia K-8
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
430 Box Elder
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Gr: PK-8 | 252 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 17%
81428, Colorado Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Lamborn Vision School (Closed 2011)
Alternative School
15521 Black Bridge Rd
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3165
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3165
Gr: K-12
846 Grand Avenue
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4882
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4882
Gr: 7-12 | 213 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 22%
P O Box 10
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4833
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4833
Gr: 6-8 | 119 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 10%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public elementary schools in 81428, CO?
The top ranked public elementary schools in 81428, CO include North Fork School Of Integrated Studies and Paonia K-8.
How many public elementary schools are located in 81428?
2 public elementary schools are located in 81428.
What is the racial composition of students in 81428?
81428 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 16% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public elementary schools average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles

Why Single-Sex Public Schools are Growing in Popularity
This article examines the growing trend of single-sex public schools in the United States. It explores the potential benefits, research findings, and controversies surrounding gender-specific education, as well as the factors driving its increasing popularity among parents and educators.

When Teachers Cheat: The Standardized Test Controversies
Teachers across the country are being accused of cheating on standardized tests, using erasers to conveniently change their students’ answers. However, are these teachers driven to cheat because the funding system is flawed?

When Field Trips Turn Deadly: Who is Responsible?
Recent deaths during field trips have parents and school officials questioning the safety of these excursions. Learn about these tragedies and what parameters should be in place to ensure a safe field trip.