For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 858 students in 22821, VA (there are 1 private school, serving 130 private students). 87% of all K-12 students in 22821, VA are educated in public schools (compared to the VA state average of 89%).
The top-ranked public schools in 22821, 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.
Public schools in zipcode 22821 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 22821, VA have an average ranking of 4/10, 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 22821, VA Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Wilbur S. Pence Middle School
(Math: 65% | Reading: 64%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
375 Bowman Road
Dayton, VA 22821
(540) 879-2535
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:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
8646 Waggys Creek Rd
Dayton, VA 22821
(540) 879-2091
Dayton, VA 22821
(540) 879-2091
Gr: PK-5 | 189 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 12%
22821, Virginia Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 22821, VA?
The top-ranked public schools in 22821, VA include Wilbur S. Pence Middle School and Ottobine Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 22821?
2 public schools are located in 22821.
What percentage of students in 22821 go to public school?
87% of all K-12 students in 22821 are educated in public schools (compared to the VA state average of 89%).
What is the racial composition of students in 22821?
22821 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
Public School Rankings: Are They Accurate in 2026?
Are public school rankings accurate? Learn how rankings are calculated in 2026, what they miss, and how families can evaluate schools wisely.
How Are U.S. Public Schools Doing in 2026?
A 2026 update on how U.S. public schools are performing academically, financially, and socially in a post-pandemic era.
Helping Your Child Navigate Friendship Drama at School
Meta Description: Practical 2026 strategies for helping your child navigate friendship drama at school with confidence, empathy, and resilience.