Best Dayton Public Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 858 students in Dayton, VA (there are 1 private school, serving 130 private students). 87% of all K-12 students in Dayton, VA are educated in public schools (compared to the VA state average of 89%).
The top-ranked public schools in Dayton, VA are Wilbur S. Pence Middle School and Ottobine Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Dayton, VA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 66% (versus the Virginia public school average of 68%), and reading proficiency score of 62% (versus the 70% statewide average). Schools in Dayton have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Virginia public schools.
Minority enrollment is 23% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Virginia public school average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).

Best Public Schools in Dayton, VA (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Wilbur S. Pence Middle School
(Math: 65% | Reading: 64%)
Rank:
4/
10
Bottom 50%
375 Bowman Road
Dayton, VA 22821
(540) 879-2535
Gr: 6-8 | 669 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #22.
Ottobine Elementary School
(Math: 70-74% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
4/
10
Bottom 50%
8646 Waggys Creek Rd
Dayton, VA 22821
(540) 879-2091
Gr: PK-5 | 189 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 12%
[+] Show Closed Public Schools in Dayton, Virginia

Dayton, Virginia Public Schools (Closed)

School
Location
Quick Facts
290 Mill St
Dayton, VA 22821
(540) 879-2033

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public schools in Dayton, VA?
The top-ranked public schools in Dayton, VA include Wilbur S. Pence Middle School and Ottobine Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Dayton?
2 public schools are located in Dayton.
What percentage of students in Dayton go to public school?
87% of all K-12 students in Dayton are educated in public schools (compared to the VA state average of 89%).
What is the racial composition of students in Dayton?
Dayton public schools minority enrollment is 23% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Virginia public schools average of 56% (majority Black and Hispanic).

Recent Articles

Budgeting Hidden Costs of Public Schooling in 2026
Budgeting Hidden Costs of Public Schooling in 2026
Learn how families budget for school lunch, after-school care, and activities, the hidden costs of public schooling in 2026.
Zero Tolerance Policies in Public Schools Today
Zero Tolerance Policies in Public Schools Today
An updated look at zero tolerance policies in public schools, including current trends, costs, legal concerns, and what parents need to know now.
The Pros and Cons of Tracking in Schools Today
The Pros and Cons of Tracking in Schools Today
Explore the advantages and drawbacks of academic tracking in today’s public schools, including equity, outcomes, and what parents should consider.

Quick Links