For the 2026 school year, there are 7 public schools serving 1,537 students in 81201, CO.
The top-ranked public schools in 81201, CO are Crest Academy, Salida High School and Longfellow Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 81201 have an average math proficiency score of 42% (versus the Colorado public school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 59% (versus the 45% statewide average). Schools in 81201, CO have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of Colorado public schools.
Minority enrollment is 19% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public school average of 51% (majority Hispanic).
Best 81201, CO Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Crest Academy
(Math: 60-69% | Reading: 70-79%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 5%10
220 12th Street
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 539-2977
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 539-2977
Gr: 5-8 | 60 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 7%
Rank: #22.
Salida High School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
26 Jones Avenue
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5400
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5400
Gr: 9-12 | 409 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 20%
Rank: #33.
Longfellow Elementary School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
425 West 7th Street
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5260
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5260
Gr: K-4 | 449 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 16%
Rank: #44.
Horizons Exploratory Academy
Alternative School
(Math: <50% | Reading: <50%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
310 E 9th Street
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5252
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5252
Gr: 9-12 | 32 students Student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Minority enrollment: 12%
Rank: #55.
Salida Montessori Charter School
Charter School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
1040 I Street
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 539-4887
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 539-4887
Gr: PK-8 | 186 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 17%
Rank: #66.
Salida Middle School
(Math: 36% | Reading: 58%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
520 Milford Street
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5300
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5300
Gr: 5-8 | 327 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 24%
Rank: n/an/a
516 Teller Ave
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5237
Salida, CO 81201
(719) 530-5237
Gr: PK | 74 students Student-teacher ratio: 7:1 Minority enrollment: 32%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 81201, CO?
The top-ranked public schools in 81201, CO include Crest Academy, Salida High School and Longfellow Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 81201?
7 public schools are located in 81201.
What is the racial composition of students in 81201?
81201 public schools minority enrollment is 19% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public schools average of 51% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Phone Bans Are Expanding: Will They Actually Help Your Child?
Phone bans are spreading in public schools nationwide. Learn how to evaluate whether a school's cellphone policy will improve your child's learning and well-being.
Should You Move for a Better Public School or Stay Put?
Considering a move to a higher-rated public school? Learn how to weigh school quality, housing costs, and family priorities before relocating.
How to Compare Public School Value Beyond Test Scores
Learn how to evaluate public school value using student support, school climate, opportunities, and outcomes, not just standardized test scores.