Best 49085 Michigan Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 7 public schools serving 3,056 students in 49085, MI (there are 6 private schools, serving 955 private students). 76% of all K-12 students in 49085, MI are educated in public schools (compared to the MI state average of 90%).
The top-ranked public schools in 49085, MI are Brown School, Upton Middle School and St. Joseph High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 49085 have an average math proficiency score of 52% (versus the Michigan public school average of 35%), and reading proficiency score of 64% (versus the 46% statewide average). Schools in 49085, MI have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Michigan public schools.
Minority enrollment is 28% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the Michigan public school average of 37% (majority Black).

Best 49085, MI Public Schools (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Brown School
(Math: 64% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
10/
10
Top 10%
2027 Brown School Rd
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 926-3500
Gr: PK-5 | 410 students Student-teacher ratio: 22:1 Minority enrollment: 28%
Rank: #22.
Upton Middle School
(Math: 52% | Reading: 70%)
Rank:
9/
10
Top 20%
800 Maiden Ln
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 926-3400
Gr: 6-8 | 690 students Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #33.
St. Joseph High School
(Math: 50% | Reading: 73%)
Rank:
9/
10
Top 20%
2521 Stadium Dr
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 926-3200
Gr: 9-12 | 933 students Student-teacher ratio: 19:1 Minority enrollment: 27%
Rank: #44.
Lincoln School
(Math: 53% | Reading: 59%)
Rank:
9/
10
Top 20%
1102 Orchard Ave
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 926-3700
Gr: PK-5 | 423 students Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 27%
Rank: #55.
Berrien County Juvenile Center
Special Education School
(Math: <50% | Reading: <50% )
Rank:
7/
10
Top 50%
6414 Deans Hill Rd
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 471-7725
Gr: 6-12 | 10 students Student-teacher ratio: 3:1 Minority enrollment: 80%
Rank: #66.
Clarke School
(Math: 48% | Reading: 47%)
Rank:
7/
10
Top 50%
515 E Glenlord Rd
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 926-3600
Gr: K-5 | 462 students Student-teacher ratio: 21:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #77.
Lighthouse Education Center
Special Education School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 25-29%)
Rank:
4/
10
Bottom 50%
379 W Glenlord Rd
Saint Joseph, MI 49085
(269) 429-2351
Gr: K-12 | 128 students Student-teacher ratio: 5:1 Minority enrollment: 38%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in 49085, MI?
The top-ranked public schools in 49085, MI include Brown School, Upton Middle School and St. Joseph High School.
How many public schools are located in 49085?
7 public schools are located in 49085.
What percentage of students in 49085 go to public school?
76% of all K-12 students in 49085 are educated in public schools (compared to the MI state average of 90%).
What is the racial composition of students in 49085?
49085 public schools minority enrollment is 28% of the student body (majority Black and Hispanic), which is less than the Michigan public schools average of 37% (majority Black).

Recent Articles

Gifted, Honors, and Advanced Tracks: Are They Accessible or Just Advertised?
Gifted, Honors, and Advanced Tracks: Are They Accessible or Just Advertised?
Learn how to evaluate gifted, honors, and advanced academic programs in public schools, including admission criteria, equity, and the questions every parent should ask.
Algebra Readiness: What Parents Should Ask Before Middle School
Algebra Readiness: What Parents Should Ask Before Middle School
Discover how to determine if your child is ready for algebra before middle school, including the questions parents should ask and the skills students need to succeed.
How to Evaluate Reading Instruction in Your Zoned Elementary School
How to Evaluate Reading Instruction in Your Zoned Elementary School
Learn how to evaluate reading instruction in your neighborhood elementary school by recognizing effective literacy practices, asking the right questions, and understanding what quality reading instruction looks like.

Quick Links