Shishmaref School in Shishmaref, AK, serves 184 students from prekindergarten through 12th grade with a student–teacher ratio of 12:1, which is approximately equal to the state average.
The school's graduation rate is 50%, which is lower than the Alaska state average of 78% and the Bering Strait School District average of 70%.
Math proficiency is 5%, which is significantly lower than the state average of 32% and district average of 21%, showing a decline compared to some earlier years.
Reading proficiency is 5%, lower than the state average of 29% and approximately equal to the district average of 4%, reflecting a continuing challenge in literacy outcomes.
Enrollment has remained relatively stable around 180 to 200 students over recent years, with 100% of students eligible for free lunch in 2023, indicating a high level of socioeconomic need among the student body.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 184 students
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 12:1
- Graduation Rate: ≥50% (Top 50% in AK)
- Overall Testing Rank: Bottom 50%
- Math Proficiency: ≤5% (Btm 50%)
- Reading Proficiency: ≤5% (Btm 50%)
- Science Proficiency: ≤10% (Btm 50%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AK Dept. of Education
Top Rankings
Shishmaref School ranks among the top 20% of public schools in Alaska for:
Category
Attribute
Percent Eligible For Free Lunch
School Overview
Shishmaref School's student population of 184 students has declined by 6% over five school years.
The teacher population of 16 teachers has grown by 14% over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
(Supplemental Virtual)
(Supplemental Virtual)
Total Students
184 students
Gender %
Total Classroom Teachers
16 teachers
School Rankings
Shishmaref School ranks within the bottom 50% of all 441 schools in Alaska (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Shishmaref School is 0.00, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.71. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#403 out of 441 schools
(Bottom 50%)
(Bottom 50%)
Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
≤5%
32%
Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
≤5%
29%
Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
≤10%
38%
Student-Teacher Ratio
12:1
15:1
American Indian
100%
22%
Asian
n/a
5%
Hispanic
n/a
8%
Black
n/a
2%
White
n/a
47%
Hawaiian
n/a
3%
Two or more races
n/a
13%
All Ethnic Groups
Graduation Rate
≥50%
78%
Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
96%
37%
Eligible for Reduced Lunch (19-20)
25%
6%
School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AK Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shishmaref School's ranking?
Shishmaref School is ranked #403 out of 441 schools, which ranks it among the bottom 50% of public schools in Alaska.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
≤5% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 32% AK state average), while ≤5% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 29% AK state average).
What is the graduation rate of Shishmaref School?
The graduation rate of Shishmaref School is 50%, which is lower than the Alaska state average of 78%.
How many students attend Shishmaref School?
184 students attend Shishmaref School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
100% of Shishmaref School students are American Indian.
What is the student-teacher ratio of Shishmaref School?
Shishmaref School has a student ration of 12:1, which is lower than the Alaska state average of 15:1.
What grades does Shishmaref School offer ?
Shishmaref School offers enrollment in grades Prekindergarten-12 (Supplemental Virtual).
What school district is Shishmaref School part of?
Shishmaref School is part of Bering Strait School District.
School Reviews
Review Shishmaref School. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
Recent Articles
Public School Transportation & Commute Planning Guide
Learn how public school transportation and commute planning can help families prepare for the coming school year safely and efficiently.
New Public School Safety Protocols 2025–26 Guide
Learn how new public school safety protocols for 2025–26 affect students, parents, and schools nationwide.
How Technology Transforms Education in 2025
Explore how technology shapes learning today, with updated data, policy context, trends, and real-world implications for students, educators, and families.
