For the 2026-27 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 1,934 students in Big Stone Gap, VA (there are 1 private school, serving 26 private students). 99% of all K-12 students in Big Stone Gap, VA are educated in public schools (compared to the VA state average of 89%).
The top-ranked public schools in Big Stone Gap, VA are Union Primary, Union High School and Union Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Big Stone Gap, VA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 85% (versus the Virginia public school average of 68%), and reading proficiency score of 73% (versus the 70% statewide average). Schools in Big Stone Gap have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Virginia public schools.
Minority enrollment is 9% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the Virginia public school average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Big Stone Gap, VA (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Union Primary
(Math: 92% | Reading: 79%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
2945 Second Avenue East
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-4900
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-4900
Gr: PK-4 | 809 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 11%
Rank: #22.
Union High School
(Math: ≥90% | Reading: 75-79%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
322 Powell Valley Road
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-1290
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-1290
Gr: 9-12 | 564 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 9%
Rank: #33.
Union Middle School
(Math: 82% | Reading: 70%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
3137 Second Avenue East
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-0195
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-0195
Gr: 5-8 | 561 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 7%
Big Stone Gap, Virginia Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Wallen's Ridge Correctional Center (Closed 2023)
Alternative School
272 Dogwood Dr
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-3310
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
(276) 523-3310
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Big Stone Gap, VA?
The top-ranked public schools in Big Stone Gap, VA include Union Primary, Union High School and Union Middle School.
How many public schools are located in Big Stone Gap?
3 public schools are located in Big Stone Gap.
What percentage of students in Big Stone Gap go to public school?
99% of all K-12 students in Big Stone Gap are educated in public schools (compared to the VA state average of 89%).
What is the racial composition of students in Big Stone Gap?
Big Stone Gap public schools minority enrollment is 9% of the student body (majority Black), which is less than the Virginia public schools average of 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
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.