The 30 Best School Districts in Kentucky: Rankings and Performance Analysis
Kentucky has 178 school districts serving thousands of students across the state, with wide variation in academic performance, resources, and educational outcomes.
Families researching where to live or which schools to attend need reliable information about which districts consistently deliver strong results.
This article examines the 30 best school districts in Kentucky based on academic achievement, standardized test scores, and overall performance metrics.
The districts featured range from large urban systems serving major metropolitan areas to smaller independent districts in college towns and suburban communities.
Each district profiled demonstrates notable strengths in student achievement, though they differ in size, location, and specific educational approaches.
The article also explores the key factors that distinguish top-performing districts and examines how Kentucky’s education system supports K-12 learning statewide.
Here are the 30 best school districts in Kentucky:
1. Covington Independent School District
Covington Independent School District serves 3,573 students across 10 public schools in Covington, Kentucky. The district includes six elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools, and one alternative school.
The district ranks 130 out of 157 districts in Kentucky and holds a 1-star rating from SchoolDigger. Its average testing ranking places it in the bottom 50% of public schools statewide for the 2025-26 school year.
Despite district-wide challenges, several individual schools perform above both district and state averages. Glenn O. Swing Elementary stands out among the schools showing stronger academic results.
The Covington Board of Education meets regularly at 25 East Seventh Street, with meetings available for streaming. The district continues working to improve educational outcomes for its students across all school levels.
2. Jefferson County School District
Jefferson County School District stands as Kentucky’s largest school system, serving approximately 99,215 students across 176 schools. The district encompasses the Louisville metropolitan area and represents the most extensive educational network in the state.
The district operates through multiple administrative divisions to manage its substantial student population. More than four separate districts function within Jefferson County to provide comprehensive educational services.
Jefferson County Public Schools has implemented the Journey to Success framework, a developmental approach focused on transformational, student-driven learning. This initiative aims to help students explore their interests and develop essential skills for future success.
The district’s size and scope make it a significant player in Kentucky education. Its extensive resources and diverse student body create unique opportunities for academic programs and extracurricular activities throughout the greater Louisville region.
3. Bowling Green Independent School District
Bowling Green Independent School District serves the inner portions of Bowling Green, Kentucky, operating 11 public schools with approximately 4,482 students for the 2025-26 school year. The district has achieved an average testing ranking of 8/10, placing it in the top 30% of public schools across Kentucky.
Recent state data shows the district improved its position in statewide rankings, jumping six slots according to current assessments. The Kentucky Department of Education’s 2024-2025 summative assessments provide color-coded ratings that reflect school performance across multiple metrics.
The district headquarters operates from within Bowling Green city limits. Students in outer portions of Bowling Green attend schools in the neighboring Warren County Public Schools system instead.
4. Oldham County Schools
Oldham County Schools operates as one of Kentucky’s top-performing districts, serving approximately 11,500 students across 21 public schools. The district consistently ranks among the best in the state, currently performing better than 93% of Kentucky school systems.
The district’s high schools demonstrate particularly strong academic outcomes, with an average testing ranking of 10/10, placing them in the top 5% statewide. Six public high schools serve nearly 4,000 students in the district.
Recent Kentucky Summative Assessment results show solid performance across grade levels. Elementary students achieved 36% proficiency in reading, while middle and high school students reached 35% and 41% proficiency respectively.
Oldham County maintains a high public school enrollment rate of 92%, exceeding the state average of 90%. The district’s four private schools serve an additional 1,000 students.
5. Fayette County Public Schools
Fayette County Public Schools serves over 41,000 students across 78 public schools in Lexington and surrounding areas. The district includes 41 elementary schools, 12 middle schools, and 15 high schools for the 2025-26 school year.
The district ranks in the top 30% of Kentucky public schools with an average testing ranking of 8/10. Recent test scores show Fayette County schools performing above the state average across grade levels. The district also outperformed Jefferson County Public Schools in recent assessments.
Fayette County offers specialized programs including magnet schools, gifted and talented programs, and various academic options for students. The district serves a diverse student population and maintains consistent academic performance across its schools.
These factors contribute to Fayette County Public Schools’ position as one of Kentucky’s leading school districts.
6. Boone County Schools
Boone County Schools operates 27 to 30 schools in the Florence area, serving over 20,000 students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The district includes 15 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, and 6 high schools.
The district demonstrates strong academic performance with an average school ranking of 10/10, placing it in the top 10% of Kentucky public schools. Math proficiency stands at 52%, significantly above the state average of 39%. Reading proficiency reaches 55%, compared to Kentucky’s 45% average.
Several schools in the district rank among the top performers statewide. Gray Middle School is frequently recognized as one of the standout institutions. The district’s consistent academic results across multiple schools reflect a comprehensive approach to education in northern Kentucky.
7. Kenton County Schools
Kenton County School District serves approximately 14,000 students across 17 schools in Northern Kentucky, just south of Cincinnati. The district operates 10 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, 3 high schools, and 1 P-8 school.
The district’s average testing ranking places it in the top 20% of public schools across Kentucky. As the sixth largest district in the state, Kenton County Schools employs around 2,000 staff members.
The district offers career and technical education programs for students in grades 9-12. Its location in Northern Kentucky provides access to both suburban and urban educational opportunities.
Kenton County Schools maintains consistent performance in statewide assessments. The district serves families throughout Kenton County with diverse educational programming designed to meet varied student needs.
8. Scott County Schools
Scott County Schools serves nearly 10,000 students across 17 public schools in Georgetown. The district consistently earns an 8 out of 10 testing ranking, placing it in the top 30% of all Kentucky public school districts.
Schools within the district maintain strong academic performance standards. The student body includes 25% minority enrollment, with Hispanic students representing the majority of that population.
The district operates as a county-wide system covering the Georgetown area. Parents can access school zone maps through the Georgetown Scott County Planning and Zoning office to determine their assigned schools by address.
Scott County Schools combines solid test scores with comprehensive educational programs. The district’s performance metrics and statewide standing make it a reliable choice for families in the region.
9. Jessamine County Schools
Jessamine County Schools serves more than 8,000 students across 14 public schools in central Kentucky. The district operates one Early Learning Village, six elementary schools, two middle schools, two high schools, and a career and technical center.
The district ranks in the top 50% of Kentucky public schools with an average testing ranking of 7/10. As one of the fastest-growing school systems in the state, Jessamine County Schools adds approximately 100 students per year.
The district’s mission focuses on motivating and challenging students to become responsible citizens and high-level thinkers. Located in the Nicholasville area, the school system serves students from preschool through 12th grade.
Top-rated schools in the district include Ashgrove Academy, Wilmore Elementary School, and Rosenwald Dunbar Elementary School.
10. Daviess County Public Schools
Daviess County Public Schools serves approximately 10,971 students across 22 public schools in the Owensboro area. The district maintains an average testing ranking of 8/10, placing it in the top 30% of public schools statewide.
The district operates 13 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 7 high schools. Student demographics show minority enrollment at 30% of the student body, with Hispanic and Black students representing the largest groups.
Daviess County schools have earned recognition for their academic performance and educational standards. The district’s commitment to student achievement is reflected in its above-average state rankings and comprehensive educational programming across all grade levels.
The school system serves families throughout Daviess County with accessible public education options.
11. Warren County Schools
Warren County Schools serves over 18,000 students across 34 public schools in the Bowling Green area. The district includes 16 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, 9 high schools, and 1 alternative school.
Students in Warren County demonstrate solid academic performance. The district’s math proficiency rate stands at 42%, exceeding the state average of 39%. Reading proficiency reaches 48%, compared to Kentucky’s 45% statewide average.
The district ranks in the top 30% of Kentucky public schools with an average rating of 8 out of 10. This consistent performance across multiple schools reflects the district’s commitment to educational quality.
Warren County Schools maintains a non-discrimination policy covering race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, disability, veteran status, and sexual orientation. The district serves a diverse student population with varying performance levels across its schools.
12. Northern Kentucky Cooperative for Educational Services
The Northern Kentucky Cooperative for Educational Services serves as a regional education support organization for school districts in the northern part of the state. This cooperative provides specialized services and expertise to its member districts, helping them improve educational outcomes.
NKCES demonstrates strong performance compared to other educational cooperatives across Kentucky. The member districts consistently rank as a top-performing region in the state.
The cooperative offers comprehensive educational programs and support services that assist member districts with school improvement initiatives. Districts under NKCES benefit from shared resources and collaborative efforts.
Member districts include both county school systems and independent districts in Northern Kentucky. The cooperative model allows smaller districts to access services and expertise they might not afford independently.
13. Shelby County Public Schools
Shelby County Public Schools serves approximately 6,964 students across 14 schools for the 2025-26 school year. The district operates in Shelby County, primarily serving the communities of Shelbyville and Simpsonville.
The district includes several recognized elementary schools, such as Simpsonville Elementary School and Heritage Elementary School, which rank among the top-performing schools in the county. Shelby County East Middle School also receives notable rankings within the district’s middle school level.
The district’s leadership has earned recognition, with Dr. Carla Kent, Principal of Shelby County High School, being selected for the 2026 Kentucky Women in Education Leadership award. The district maintains an average testing ranking of 3/10 among Kentucky public schools, placing it in the bottom half of state districts for academic performance metrics.
14. Shelby County Schools
Shelby County Schools serves students across Shelby County, Kentucky, with a collection of public schools that have shown notable performance in recent rankings. The district includes several well-regarded institutions like Simpsonville Elementary School, Heritage Elementary School, and Shelby County East Middle School.
The district has demonstrated commitment to educational leadership, with recognition extending to administrative staff who have received state-level honors. Test scores and school ratings place Shelby County Schools among the competitive districts in Kentucky’s educational landscape.
Families in the area have access to K-12 education options that emphasize college preparation and student success. The district serves both urban and rural communities within the county, providing educational services that reflect local needs. School performance data suggests the district maintains standards that meet state requirements while working to improve student outcomes across grade levels.
15. Murray Independent School District
Murray Independent School District ranks among Kentucky’s top public school systems, consistently placing in the top five districts statewide. The district earned recognition as the #2 Best School District in Kentucky according to Niche.com’s 2024 rankings out of 167 K-12 public school districts.
Murray Middle School stands as the district’s flagship institution, ranked 9th out of 320 middle schools in Kentucky. The school maintains a 5-star rating and achieves impressive results, with 60-80% of students demonstrating proficiency in core subjects. The middle school also reports a notably low 1.1% dropout rate.
The district serves the Murray community with a focus on academic excellence and student achievement. Based on combined math and reading proficiency testing data, Murray Independent demonstrates strong performance across grade levels, making it a standout choice for families in western Kentucky.
16. Madison County Schools
Madison County Schools serves more than 11,000 students across the district in preschool through 12th grade. The district operates 11 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, 2 high schools, 1 Virtual Academy, and 1 career and technical education center.
The district ranks in the top 20% of public schools in Kentucky based on testing performance. Recent assessment results show 31% of elementary students achieving proficient in reading and 23% reaching distinguished levels.
Madison County Schools employs over 2,000 staff members who support student learning throughout the district. The district serves the Richmond and Berea areas of Madison County.
Several schools within the district have received recognition for their academic programs. The district continues to focus on college and career readiness preparation for its students.
17. Bullitt County Public Schools
Bullitt County Public Schools serves approximately 12,954 students across 25 schools for the 2025-26 school year. The district includes 13 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, and 5 high schools located throughout the county.
The district holds an average testing ranking of 6/10, placing it in the top 50% of public schools in Kentucky. This performance demonstrates consistent academic achievement across its schools.
Bullitt County’s schools serve communities in Shepherdsville and surrounding areas. Notable schools in the district include Riverview Opportunity Center, Pleasant Grove Elementary School, and Eastside Middle School.
The district provides comprehensive K-12 education with multiple school options available to families throughout Bullitt County. Its size allows for diverse programming while maintaining community connections across its facilities.
18. Madison County School District
Madison County School District operates 26 public schools in Richmond, KY, serving students throughout the county. The district ranks #32 out of 171 school districts in Kentucky based on combined math and reading proficiency testing data for the 2022-2023 school year.
This ranking places Madison County in the top 20% of districts statewide. The district has shown recent improvement, jumping two positions in statewide rankings and now performing better than 85% of Kentucky districts.
Top-rated schools within the district include Farristown Middle School, B. Michael Caudill Middle School, and Shannon Johnson Elementary School. Madison County School District released its 2024-2025 Kentucky Summative Assessment results, demonstrating continued focus on academic achievement and student performance across its campuses.
19. Franklin County Public Schools
Franklin County Public Schools serves approximately 6,188 students across 16 public schools in the Frankfort area. The district’s average testing ranking places it at 4 out of 10, positioning it in the bottom half of Kentucky public school districts.
The district has experienced some challenges in recent years, dropping seven positions in statewide rankings. This places Franklin County performing below roughly 75% of school districts across Kentucky.
Despite academic rankings, the district maintains active programs and facilities throughout Franklin County. Schools like Peaks Mill Elementary School and Collins Lane appear among the area’s recognized institutions. The district continues to serve its community while working to improve student outcomes and educational standards.
Franklin County High School’s athletic programs demonstrate success, with the football team recently securing the 2025 Class 4A 11th Regional Championship.
20. Campbell County Schools
Campbell County Schools operates in northern Kentucky, serving students across multiple communities in the district. The district’s mission focuses on ensuring student success in college, career, and life through a “Whatever It Takes” approach that involves collaboration with students, staff, parents, and the community.
The district includes 41 schools total, consisting of 12 high schools, 4 middle schools, and 21 elementary schools. Rankings are determined by comparing actual test scores against projected performance.
Several schools in the district have earned recognition as top-rated institutions. Donald E. Cline Elementary School, Woodfill Elementary School, and Johnson Elementary School rank among the highest-performing schools based on various educational measures and test score data.
The district emphasizes partnerships with families and local communities to support student achievement. Campbell County Schools continues to focus on preparing students for post-secondary success through its comprehensive educational programs.
21. Pendleton County Schools
Pendleton County School District serves the educational needs of students in Pendleton County, operating four public schools across the district. The district enrolled 2,201 students for the 2025-26 school year, making it a relatively small district in Kentucky.
The district’s average testing ranking stands at 3 out of 10, placing it in the bottom 50% of public schools statewide. This performance indicates room for improvement in academic outcomes compared to other Kentucky districts.
Pendleton County Schools provides educational resources and services to support students, parents, and the broader community. The district maintains a manageable student population spread across its elementary, middle, and high school facilities.
The district faces challenges common to smaller rural school systems, including resource allocation and maintaining competitive academic standards across all grade levels.
22. Clark County Schools
Clark County Schools serves 5,348 students across 10 public schools in Winchester, Kentucky. The district includes five elementary schools, two middle schools, George Rogers Clark High School, and an alternative program. With an average testing ranking in the top 50% of Kentucky public schools, the district maintains a solid academic standing.
The district educates 93% of all K-12 students in Clark County, exceeding the state average of 90% for public school enrollment. Schools range from Clark County Preschool through Cardinal Innovation Center, which serves grades 6-12. Robert D. Campbell Jr High and Phoenix Academy round out the district’s middle and alternative school options.
Clark County Schools faces challenges with poverty rates and chronic absenteeism, which impact academic performance across its campuses. The district continues working to support student success through its various educational programs and facilities.
23. Woodford County Schools
Woodford County Schools serves approximately 4,000 students across seven schools in Versailles, Kentucky. The district includes four elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools.
The district maintains a strong academic reputation with an average testing ranking in the top 20% of public schools statewide. Several schools within the system consistently rank among Kentucky’s top-performing institutions.
Woodford County Schools partners with families and the community to provide challenging learning opportunities for all students. The district focuses on promoting student growth and achievement while preparing students for future success.
Schools in the district demonstrate particular strength in college preparation. Multiple schools have received recognition for their ability to help students enroll in college and persist through graduation, including effective support for students from low-income families.
24. Montgomery County Schools
Montgomery County Schools serves approximately 4,510 students across eight public schools in the Mount Sterling area. The district holds an average testing ranking of 7/10, placing it in the top 50% of public schools statewide.
The district includes several well-regarded institutions, with Northview Elementary School among its top-ranked facilities. Gateway Children’s Services and Mapleton Elementary School also contribute to the county’s educational offerings.
Montgomery County Schools provides a range of educational programs designed to meet diverse student needs. The district’s performance metrics indicate consistent achievement in preparing students for academic progression.
Located in eastern Kentucky, the school system serves families throughout Montgomery County. The district maintains focus on both elementary and secondary education, offering comprehensive programming from early childhood through high school graduation.
25. Anderson County Schools
Anderson County Schools operates seven public schools serving 3,751 students in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The district ranks 33rd out of 172 districts statewide, placing it in the top 19% of all Kentucky school systems.
The district’s average testing ranking stands at 8 out of 10, positioning it in the top 30% of public schools across the state. Robert B. Turner Elementary School consistently ranks among the top elementary schools in Kentucky, demonstrating strong academic performance.
The district includes four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. School performance varies across campuses, with some schools achieving higher rankings and test scores than others.
Anderson County Schools maintains its administrative offices at 1160 Bypass North in Lawrenceburg. The district operates as an equal opportunity education provider.
26. Laurel County Schools
Laurel County Schools serves approximately 8,700 students across 19 public schools in the London, KY area. The district has earned recognition for its academic performance, ranking in the top 5% of public school districts statewide with an average testing ranking of 10/10.
The district demonstrates particular strength at the elementary level, where it ranks as the second-highest county school district in Kentucky for overall elementary ratings. Among all elementary districts in the state, it places seventh out of 172 districts, positioning it in the top 4%.
Laurel County’s consistent performance on state assessments reflects the district’s commitment to educational excellence. Schools like Sublimity Elementary, Cold Hill Elementary, and London Elementary have received top rankings within the county.
The district serves a significant student population while maintaining high academic standards across multiple grade levels.
27. Greenup County Schools
Greenup County Schools operates seven schools serving students across the district, including four elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. The district is headquartered at 45 Musketeer Drive in Greenup, Kentucky.
Academic performance varies notably across the district’s schools. Greysbranch Elementary and McKell Middle School consistently perform above county and state averages in standardized testing. These schools have earned recognition as top-ranked institutions within the district.
The district includes Russell Primary School, Russell High School, Russell-McDowell Intermediate School, and Greenup County High School among its facilities. Wurtland Elementary also serves students in the area.
Parents and prospective residents can access school ratings, test scores, and enrollment data through various educational platforms. The district maintains a public website that provides information about school operations and district announcements.
28. Letcher County Schools
Letcher County Schools operates 9 public schools serving approximately 2,467 students in the Whitesburg area. The district includes 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 high school.
Academic performance in Letcher County falls below state averages, with math proficiency at 28% compared to Kentucky’s 38% and reading proficiency at 40% versus the state’s 45%. The district holds an average testing ranking of 4 out of 10 among Kentucky public schools.
The student population faces significant economic challenges, with free and reduced-price lunch rates ranging from 60% to 79% across district schools. Letcher County Central High School, Whitesburg Middle School, and Fleming Neon Middle School rank among the top-performing institutions within the district.
29. Grant County Schools
Grant County Schools serves approximately 3,289 students across six public schools in the Dry Ridge area. The district recently moved up eight positions in statewide rankings, showing measurable improvement in performance metrics.
The district includes several notable institutions such as Williamstown Senior High School and Dry Ridge Elementary School. Testing performance places the district in the middle range among Kentucky public school systems, with an average testing ranking of 3 out of 10.
In August 2025, the district welcomed Kentucky Commissioner of Education Dr. Robbie Fletcher for a visit hosted by Superintendent Todd Moody. Grant County Schools maintains its focus on serving students throughout the county while working to enhance educational outcomes and community engagement.
30. Mercer County Schools
Mercer County Schools serves approximately 2,724 students across six public schools in the Harrodsburg area. The district ranked 53rd out of all Kentucky school districts in recent state assessments, with an average score of 70.8.
Within the Central Kentucky Educational Cooperative, Mercer County Schools placed eighth among 39 member districts. The district’s testing performance places it in the middle tier of Kentucky public school systems.
The district operates alongside Burgin Independent Schools within Mercer County, providing families with public education options in the region. Both school systems received positive marks on recent state report cards.
Mercer County Schools focuses on college preparation, with several schools recognized for their success in helping students enroll and persist in higher education. The district serves students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds throughout the county.
Factors That Define Top School Districts
Kentucky’s leading school districts distinguish themselves through measurable academic outcomes, adequate resources for students and educators, and diverse opportunities beyond standard classroom instruction. These elements work together to create environments where students can thrive academically and personally.
Academic Performance Metrics
State test scores in mathematics and English serve as primary indicators of district quality across Kentucky’s 169 school districts. Districts earn recognition when their schools consistently place in the top percentages statewide based on combined proficiency rankings. Graduation rates provide another critical measure, revealing how effectively schools guide students to completion.
College readiness metrics demonstrate whether districts prepare students for post-secondary education. These measurements include standardized test performance, advanced course offerings, and the percentage of graduates who pursue higher education. Rankings incorporate data from the U.S. Department of Education alongside millions of reviews from students and parents.
Performance comparisons remain valid only within Kentucky, as states maintain different testing standards and educational requirements. The most reliable assessments examine trends over multiple years rather than single-year snapshots.
Student and Teacher Resources
Student-to-teacher ratios in Kentucky’s best districts typically range from 15:1 to 20:1. These lower ratios enable more personalized instruction and individual attention for struggling or advanced learners. Teacher quality factors into district rankings through credential verification, experience levels, and ongoing professional development programs.
Funding levels directly impact available resources, from technology access to classroom materials. Top districts maintain modern facilities, updated textbooks, and digital learning tools that support various learning styles. Support services such as counseling, special education programs, and mental health resources indicate a district’s commitment to addressing diverse student needs.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Strong districts extend learning beyond core subjects through athletics, arts programs, clubs, and competitive teams. These activities develop leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and specialized talents that colleges and employers value. Music programs, theater productions, and visual arts classes provide creative outlets while building confidence and self-expression.
Career and technical education programs prepare students for workforce entry or specialized training. Debate teams, academic competitions, and honors societies challenge high-achieving students to push their capabilities further. Access to varied extracurricular options ensures students can explore interests and develop well-rounded skill sets regardless of their academic focus.
How Kentucky Supports K-12 Education
Kentucky invests approximately $16,000 per student annually through a combination of state, local, and federal funding sources. The state maintains comprehensive data systems and accountability frameworks to track student progress and ensure districts meet educational standards.
Statewide Education Initiatives
The Kentucky Department of Education operates enterprise data systems, including Infinite Campus and MUNIS, to collect and analyze student, school, and financial information across all districts. These systems enable federal and state reporting while supporting funding calculations and research-driven policy decisions.
The state conducts annual district performance assessments through its Office of Education Accountability, which produces comprehensive Kentucky District Data Profiles for each school year. These profiles track metrics from preschool through post-secondary education, offering comparative data across all 171 public school districts.
Kentucky’s accountability system evaluates schools on multiple measures beyond standardized testing. Districts receive state support through targeted programs designed to improve academic outcomes and address performance gaps. The state oversees 3,396 preschools, 1,513 elementary schools, 1,011 middle schools, and 861 high schools through unified standards and requirements.
Community and Family Engagement
School districts in Kentucky integrate community input into decision-making processes through local school boards and parent advisory committees. These structures allow families to participate directly in educational planning and policy development at the district level.
Many top-performing Kentucky districts attribute their success to strong partnerships between schools, parents, and local organizations. Districts provide resources and communication channels to keep families informed about student progress and school initiatives. Parent involvement extends beyond traditional meetings to include volunteer opportunities, fundraising efforts, and participation in curriculum review processes.
The state encourages districts to establish relationships with local businesses and higher education institutions to expand learning opportunities. These partnerships often result in mentorship programs, career exploration initiatives, and dual-credit coursework that prepares students for post-secondary success.
