For the 2026-27 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 350 students in Lead, SD.
The top-ranked public schools in Lead, SD are Lead-deadwood Middle School - 02 and Lead-deadwood High School - 01. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Lead, SD public schools have an average math proficiency score of 34% (versus the South Dakota public school average of 43%), and reading proficiency score of 55% (versus the 51% statewide average). Schools in Lead have an average ranking of 5/10, which is in the bottom 50% of South Dakota public schools.
Minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public school average of 34% (majority American Indian).
Best Public Schools in Lead, SD (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Lead-deadwood Middle School - 02
(Math: 35-39% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
234 S Main St
Lead, SD 57754
(605) 717-3898
Lead, SD 57754
(605) 717-3898
Gr: 6-8 | 139 students Student-teacher ratio: 9:1 Minority enrollment: 20%
Rank: #22.
Lead-deadwood High School - 01
(Math: 20-29% | Reading: 60-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
320 S Main St
Lead, SD 57754
(605) 717-3899
Lead, SD 57754
(605) 717-3899
Gr: 9-12 | 211 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 15%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Lead, SD?
The top-ranked public schools in Lead, SD include Lead-deadwood Middle School - 02 and Lead-deadwood High School - 01.
How many public schools are located in Lead?
2 public schools are located in Lead.
What is the racial composition of students in Lead?
Lead public schools minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public schools average of 34% (majority American Indian).
Recent Articles
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
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
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.