For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 602 students in Canton, SD.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Canton, SD are Lawrence Elementary - 02 and Canton Middle School - 04. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Canton, SD public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 49% (versus the South Dakota public elementary school average of 43%), and reading proficiency score of 59% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in Canton have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of South Dakota public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public elementary school average of 36% (majority American Indian).
Best Public Elementary Schools in Canton, SD (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Lawrence Elementary - 02
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
724 N Sanborn
Canton, SD 57013
(605) 764-2579
Canton, SD 57013
(605) 764-2579
Gr: K-5 | 404 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 6%
Rank: #22.
Canton Middle School - 04
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 57%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
800 N Main St
Canton, SD 57013
(605) 764-2706
Canton, SD 57013
(605) 764-2706
Gr: 6-8 | 198 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 8%
Canton, South Dakota Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
220 S Bartlett
Canton, SD 57013
(605) 764-2570
Canton, SD 57013
(605) 764-2570
Gr: PK-K | 80 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 2%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in Canton, SD?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Canton, SD include Lawrence Elementary - 02 and Canton Middle School - 04.
How many public elementary schools are located in Canton?
2 public elementary schools are located in Canton.
What is the racial composition of students in Canton?
Canton public elementary schools minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public elementary schools average of 36% (majority American Indian).
Recent Articles
The Experience of Being a New Student Mid-Year
Learn what students experience when transferring to a public school mid-year and how schools help new students adjust socially and academically.
How Public Schools Structure Free Periods or Study Time
Learn how public schools structure free periods or study time to support homework, tutoring, enrichment, and student independence.
The Role of Hallways, Common Areas, and Shared Spaces in Public Schools
Discover how hallways, cafeterias, libraries, and shared spaces shape student learning, safety, and school culture in public schools.