For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public schools serving 1,353 students in 81520, CO.
The top-ranked public schools in 81520, CO are Mount Garfield Middle School, Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Clifton Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 81520 have an average math proficiency score of 14% (versus the Colorado public school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 31% (versus the 45% statewide average). Schools in 81520, CO have an average ranking of 2/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Colorado public schools.
Minority enrollment is 39% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public school average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Best 81520, CO Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Mount Garfield Middle School
(Math: 15% | Reading: 38%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
3475 Front Street
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4720
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4720
Gr: 6-8 | 562 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 36%
Rank: #22.
Rocky Mountain Elementary School
(Math: 14% | Reading: 22%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
3260 D1/2 Road
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4900
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4900
Gr: PK-5 | 416 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 44%
Rank: #33.
Clifton Elementary School
(Math: 10-14% | Reading: 15-19%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
3276 F Road
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4760
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4760
Gr: PK-5 | 375 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 38%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 81520, CO?
The top-ranked public schools in 81520, CO include Mount Garfield Middle School, Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Clifton Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 81520?
3 public schools are located in 81520.
What is the racial composition of students in 81520?
81520 public schools minority enrollment is 39% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public schools average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Preventing Suicide in Schools: 2026 Guide for Educators
Learn updated 2026 strategies for preventing suicide in schools, including warning signs, intervention plans, and school-wide mental health support.
The Impact of Social Media on Students (2026 Update)
Explore the impact of social media on students in 2026, including academic, mental health, and safety insights for parents and educators.
Building a Summer Reading Plan That Keeps Kids Engaged
Learn how to build a summer reading plan that keeps kids engaged, motivated, and improving literacy skills throughout the break.