Best 38501 Tennessee Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 8 public schools serving 5,312 students in 38501, TN (there are 3 private schools, serving 409 private students). 93% of all K-12 students in 38501, TN are educated in public schools (compared to the TN state average of 90%).
The top-ranked public schools in 38501, TN are Capshaw Elementary School, Dodson Branch Elementary School and Cane Creek Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 38501 have an average math proficiency score of 41% (versus the Tennessee public school average of 34%), and reading proficiency score of 43% (versus the 37% statewide average). Schools in 38501, TN have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of Tennessee public schools.
Minority enrollment is 31% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Tennessee public school average of 43% (majority Black).

Best 38501, TN Public Schools (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Capshaw Elementary School
(Math: 70-74% | Reading: 70-74%)
Rank:
10/
10
Top 5%
1 Cougar Ln
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 526-2414
Gr: PK-4 | 515 students Minority enrollment: 17%
Rank: #22.
Dodson Branch Elementary School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
9/
10
Top 20%
16221 Dodson Branch Hwy
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 268-0761
Gr: PK-8 | 250 students Minority enrollment: 5%
Rank: #3 - 43. - 4.
Cane Creek Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
8/
10
Top 30%
1500 West Jackson St
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 520-1173
Gr: PK-4 | 447 students Minority enrollment: 21%
Rank: #3 - 43. - 4.
Northeast Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
8/
10
Top 30%
575 N Old Kentucky Rd
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 526-2978
Gr: PK-4 | 459 students Minority enrollment: 27%
Rank: #55.
Avery Trace Middle School
(Math: 47% | Reading: 36%)
Rank:
7/
10
Top 50%
230 Raider Dr
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 520-2200
Gr: 5-8 | 724 students Minority enrollment: 44%
Rank: #66.
Cookeville High School
Magnet School
(Math: 31% | Reading: 50%)
Rank:
7/
10
Top 50%
1 Cavalier Dr
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 520-2287
Gr: 9-12 | 2,241 students Minority enrollment: 28%
Rank: #77.
Sycamore Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
5/
10
Bottom 50%
452 Ellis Ave
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 526-9322
Gr: PK-4 | 337 students Minority enrollment: 36%
Rank: #88.
Jere Whitson Elementary School
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 15-19%)
Rank:
3/
10
Bottom 50%
178 East Jere Whitson Rd
Cookeville, TN 38501
(931) 526-6575
Gr: PK-4 | 339 students Minority enrollment: 71%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in 38501, TN?
The top-ranked public schools in 38501, TN include Capshaw Elementary School, Dodson Branch Elementary School and Cane Creek Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 38501?
8 public schools are located in 38501.
What percentage of students in 38501 go to public school?
93% of all K-12 students in 38501 are educated in public schools (compared to the TN state average of 90%).
What is the racial composition of students in 38501?
38501 public schools minority enrollment is 31% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Tennessee public schools average of 43% (majority Black).

Recent Articles

Phone Bans Are Expanding: Will They Actually Help Your Child?
Phone Bans Are Expanding: Will They Actually Help Your Child?
Phone bans are spreading in public schools nationwide. Learn how to evaluate whether a school's cellphone policy will improve your child's learning and well-being.
Should You Move for a Better Public School or Stay Put?
Should You Move for a Better Public School or Stay Put?
Considering a move to a higher-rated public school? Learn how to weigh school quality, housing costs, and family priorities before relocating.
How to Compare Public School Value Beyond Test Scores
How to Compare Public School Value Beyond Test Scores
Learn how to evaluate public school value using student support, school climate, opportunities, and outcomes, not just standardized test scores.

Quick Links