For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 183 students in Jones County, SD.
The top-ranked public schools in Jones County, SD are Jones County Middle School - 04, Jones County Elementary - 02 and Jones County High School - 01. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Jones County, SD public schools have an average math proficiency score of 71% (versus the South Dakota public school average of 43%), and reading proficiency score of 53% (versus the 51% statewide average). Schools in Jones County have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of South Dakota public schools.
Minority enrollment is 20% of the student body (majority American Indian), which is less than the South Dakota public school average of 34% (majority American Indian).
Best Public Schools in Jones County (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Jones County Middle School - 04
(Math: 70-79% | Reading: 50-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
404 Jackson Ave
Murdo, SD 57559
(605) 669-2258
Murdo, SD 57559
(605) 669-2258
Gr: 5-8 | 57 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 21%
Rank: #22.
Jones County Elementary - 02
(Math: 70-79% | Reading: 40-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
305 Jefferson Ave
Murdo, SD 57559
(605) 669-2297
Murdo, SD 57559
(605) 669-2297
Gr: K-4 | 74 students Student-teacher ratio: 9:1 Minority enrollment: 21%
Rank: #33.
Jones County High School - 01
(Math: ≥50% | Reading: ≥50%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
404 Jackson Ave
Murdo, SD 57559
(605) 669-2258
Murdo, SD 57559
(605) 669-2258
Gr: 9-12 | 49 students Student-teacher ratio: 7:1 Minority enrollment: 16%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Jones County, SD?
The top-ranked public schools in Jones County, SD include Jones County Middle School - 04, Jones County Elementary - 02 and Jones County High School - 01.
How many public schools are located in Jones County?
3 public schools are located in Jones County.
What is the racial composition of students in Jones County?
Jones County public schools minority enrollment is 20% of the student body (majority American Indian), which is less than the South Dakota public schools average of 34% (majority American Indian).
Recent Articles
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
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
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.