For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 919 students in 22821, VA (there are 1 private school, serving 130 private students). 88% 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 57% (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 | 671 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 28%
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 | 248 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 9%
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?
88% 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 57% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
The First Six Weeks at a New Public School
The first six weeks reveal how children are adapting to a new public school. Learn which academic, social, emotional, attendance, and routine signals parents should monitor closely.
Will Your Child Receive Enough Individual Attention? Looking Beyond Student-Teacher Ratios
Student-teacher ratios reveal only part of a school’s story. Learn how families can evaluate class size, staffing, teacher access, tutoring, feedback, and personalized support for children today.
What Families Should Ask About AI Use in Public Schools
Families need clear answers about classroom AI. Learn what to ask public schools about teaching, academic integrity, privacy, teacher oversight, equity, and student learning before concerns arise.