For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 627 students in Hiawatha, IA (there are 2 private schools, serving 36 private students). 95% of all K-12 students in Hiawatha, IA are educated in public schools (compared to the IA state average of 90%).
The top-ranked public schools in Hiawatha, IA are Nixon Elementary School and Hiawatha Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Hiawatha, IA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 70% (versus the Iowa public school average of 68%), and reading proficiency score of 64% (versus the 70% statewide average). Schools in Hiawatha have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Iowa public schools.
Minority enrollment is 47% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public school average of 29% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Hiawatha, IA (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Nixon Elementary School
(Math: 65-69% | Reading: 70-74%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
200 Nixon Dr
Hiawatha, IA 52233
(319) 558-2188
Hiawatha, IA 52233
(319) 558-2188
Gr: PK-5 | 284 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 54%
Rank: #22.
Hiawatha Elementary School
(Math: 70-74% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
603 Emmons St
Hiawatha, IA 52233
(319) 558-2172
Hiawatha, IA 52233
(319) 558-2172
Gr: PK-5 | 343 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 40%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Hiawatha, IA?
The top-ranked public schools in Hiawatha, IA include Nixon Elementary School and Hiawatha Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Hiawatha?
2 public schools are located in Hiawatha.
What percentage of students in Hiawatha go to public school?
95% of all K-12 students in Hiawatha are educated in public schools (compared to the IA state average of 90%).
What is the racial composition of students in Hiawatha?
Hiawatha public schools minority enrollment is 47% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is more than the Iowa public schools average of 29% (majority Hispanic).
Which public schools in Hiawatha are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Hiawatha include: Hiawatha Elementary School vs. Nixon Elementary School, Nixon Elementary School vs. Hiawatha Elementary School
Recent Articles
Understanding School Safety Policies in 2026
Learn how school safety policies are evolving in 2026, including mental health support, AI monitoring, emergency planning, and parent rights.
How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health at School
Practical guidance for parents and educators on supporting child mental health during the school year, with expert strategies and 2026 insights.
What a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction Means in 2026
Understand what a National Blue Ribbon of Distinction means, how schools earn it, and why it matters for academic quality in 2026.