Best Essex County Public Middle Schools (2026)

For the 2026 school year, there is 1 public middle school serving 331 students in Essex County, VA.
The top-ranked public middle school in Essex County, VA is James H. Cary Intermediate. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Essex County, VA public middle school have an average math proficiency score of 54% (versus the Virginia public middle school average of 65%), and reading proficiency score of 51% (versus the 70% statewide average). Middle schools in Essex County have an average ranking of 2/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Virginia public middle schools.
Minority enrollment is 77% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Virginia public middle school average of 54% (majority Black and Hispanic).

Best Public Middle Schools in Essex County (2026)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
James H. Cary Intermediate
(Math: 54% | Reading: 51%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
912 Intermediate School Circle
Tappahannock, VA 22560
(804) 443-3040
Gr: 5-8 | 299 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 75%

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked public middle schools in Essex County, VA?
The top-ranked public middle schools in Essex County, VA include James H. Cary Intermediate.
How many public middle schools are located in Essex County?
1 public middle schools are located in Essex County.
What is the racial composition of students in Essex County?
Essex County public middle schools minority enrollment is 77% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Virginia public middle schools average of 54% (majority Black and Hispanic).

Recent Articles

The School Choice Comparison Worksheet: 15 Factors Beyond Test Scores
The School Choice Comparison Worksheet: 15 Factors Beyond Test Scores
Compare public schools with confidence using this 15-factor worksheet that looks beyond test scores to school culture, programs, safety, and student support.
Boundary Changes and Rezoning: How to Protect Your Child's School Plan
Boundary Changes and Rezoning: How to Protect Your Child's School Plan
Learn why school boundary changes happen, how rezoning affects families, and the practical steps parents can take to protect their child's educational plan.
Teacher Turnover: How to Read the Warning Signs
Teacher Turnover: How to Read the Warning Signs
Learn how to identify warning signs of teacher turnover, what causes frequent staff changes, and how parents can evaluate school stability.

Quick Links