Best Clayton Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 1,445 students in Clayton, NJ (there are 2 private schools, serving 538 private students). 73% of all K-12 students in Clayton, NJ are educated in public schools (compared to the NJ state average of 86%).
The top-ranked public schools in Clayton, NJ are Herma S. Simmons Elementary School, Clayton High School and Clayton Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Clayton, NJ public schools have an average math proficiency score of 21% (versus the New Jersey public school average of 38%), and reading proficiency score of 31% (versus the 49% statewide average). Schools in Clayton have an average ranking of 1/10, which is in the bottom 50% of New Jersey public schools.
Minority enrollment is 56% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the New Jersey public school average of 63% (majority Hispanic).

Best Public Schools in Clayton, NJ (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Herma S. Simmons Elementary School
(Math: 29% | Reading: 38%)
Rank:
4/
10
Bottom 50%
300 West Chestnut Street
Clayton, NJ 08312
(856) 881-8704
Gr: PK-5 | 715 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 55%
Rank: #22.
Clayton High School
(Math: 15-19% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
3/
10
Bottom 50%
55 Pop Kramer Blvd, Suite A
Clayton, NJ 08312
(856) 881-8701
Gr: 9-12 | 431 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 55%
Rank: #33.
Clayton Middle School
(Math: 15% | Reading: 23%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
55 Pop Kramer Blvd, Suite B
Clayton, NJ 08312
(856) 881-8701
Gr: 6-8 | 299 students Student-teacher ratio: 10:1 Minority enrollment: 62%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in Clayton, NJ?
The top-ranked public schools in Clayton, NJ include Herma S. Simmons Elementary School, Clayton High School and Clayton Middle School.
How many public schools are located in Clayton?
3 public schools are located in Clayton.
What percentage of students in Clayton go to public school?
73% of all K-12 students in Clayton are educated in public schools (compared to the NJ state average of 86%).
What is the racial composition of students in Clayton?
Clayton public schools minority enrollment is 56% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the New Jersey public schools average of 63% (majority Hispanic).

Recent Articles

How to Evaluate School Safety Beyond Headlines
How to Evaluate School Safety Beyond Headlines
Learn how to evaluate school safety beyond headlines by examining reliable data, school climate, emergency planning, bullying prevention, communication, student experiences, and everyday security practices before choosing a school.
Choosing a Public School for Executive Function Needs
Choosing a Public School for Executive Function Needs
Learn how to choose a public school for a child with executive function challenges by evaluating routines, classroom support, organization, accommodations, communication, transitions, and special education services before enrollment.
What School Climate Surveys Tell You Before Enrolling
What School Climate Surveys Tell You Before Enrolling
Learn how school climate surveys reveal student safety, belonging, relationships, engagement, and support, and how families can interpret results carefully before choosing a public school for their child today.

Quick Links