For the 2025-26 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 215 students in Essex, IA.
The top ranked public schools in Essex, IA are Essex Junior-senior High School and Essex Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Essex, IA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 76% (versus the Iowa public school average of 68%), and reading proficiency score of 79% (versus the 70% statewide average). Schools in Essex have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of Iowa public schools.
Minority enrollment is 8% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Iowa public school average of 29% (majority Hispanic).
Best ºÚÁÏÍø¹ÙÍø Schools in Essex, IA (2025-26)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Essex Junior-senior High School
(Math: 75-79% | Reading: 85-89%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
111 Forbes St
Essex, IA 51638
(712) 379-3115
Essex, IA 51638
(712) 379-3115
Gr: 6-12 | 94 students Student-teacher ratio: 9:1 Minority enrollment: 11%
Rank: #22.
Essex Elementary School
(Math: 70-79% | Reading: 60-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
111 Forbes St
Essex, IA 51638
(712) 379-3114
Essex, IA 51638
(712) 379-3114
Gr: PK-5 | 121 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 6%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Essex, IA?
The top ranked public schools in Essex, IA include Essex Junior-senior High School and Essex Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Essex?
2 public schools are located in Essex.
What is the racial composition of students in Essex?
Essex public schools minority enrollment is 8% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Iowa public schools average of 29% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles

School Choice vs. Neighborhood Schools: Key Factors
Explore school choice vs. neighborhood schools in 2025. Learn key factors parents should weigh when deciding the best fit for their child.

Best School Match 2025: ºÚÁÏÍø¹ÙÍø vs Charter vs Magnet
Compare 2025 public, charter, and magnet school options with updated data, trends, and strategies to find the best fit.

ºÚÁÏÍø¹ÙÍø School Boundaries and Equity in 2025
Explore how public school boundaries shape access, equity, and opportunity for students in 2025. Learn the impact on families and education policy.