For the 2025 school year, there are 14 public schools serving 5,993 students in Palmer, AK (there are 2 private schools, serving 93 private students). 98% of all K-12 students in Palmer, AK are educated in public schools (compared to the AK state average of 95%).
The top ranked public schools in Palmer, AK are Academy Charter School, Mat-su Middle College School and Mat-su Secondary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Palmer, AK public schools have an average math proficiency score of 28% (versus the Alaska public school average of 24%), and reading proficiency score of 37% (versus the 30% statewide average). Schools in Palmer have an average ranking of 7/10, which is in the top 50% of Alaska public schools.
Minority enrollment is 32% of the student body (majority Hispanic and American Indian), which is less than the Alaska public school average of 53% (majority American Indian).
Best Public Schools in Palmer, AK (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Academy Charter School
Charter School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 5%10
801 East Arctic
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 746-2358
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 746-2358
Grades: K-8
| 267 students
Rank: #22.
Mat-su Middle College School
(Math: ≥50% | Reading: ≥50%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
8295 East College Drive
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 746-8485
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 746-8485
Grades: 8-12
| 204 students
Rank: #33.
Mat-su Secondary School
Alternative School
(Math: <50% | Reading: <50% )
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
581 S Outer Springer Lp
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-7238
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-7238
Grades: 6-12
| 14 students
Rank: #44.
Pioneer Peak Elementary School
(Math: 42% | Reading: 44%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
1959 N Stringfield Rd
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5700
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5700
Grades: PK-5
| 471 students
Rank: #55.
Cottonwood Creek Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 30-34%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
800 N Seward Meridian
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 864-2100
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 864-2100
Grades: PK-5
| 428 students
Rank: #66.
Birchtree Charter School
Charter School
(Math: 29% | Reading: 45%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
1675 N Nadina St.
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 745-1831
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 745-1831
Grades: K-8
| 407 students
Rank: #77.
Sherrod Elementary School
(Math: 31% | Reading: 36%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
561 N Gulkana St
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-4100
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-4100
Grades: K-5
| 369 students
Rank: #88.
Butte Elementary School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 30-34%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
4006 S Butte Rd
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5200
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5200
Grades: PK-5
| 272 students
Rank: #99.
Colony High School
(Math: 24% | Reading: 39%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
9550 E Bogard Rd
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5500
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5500
Grades: 9-12
| 1,092 students
Rank: #1010.
Palmer High School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
1170 W Bogard Rd
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 746-8400
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 746-8400
Grades: 9-12
| 649 students
Rank: #1111.
Colony Middle School
(Math: 25% | Reading: 34%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
9250 E Bogard Rd
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-1500
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-1500
Grades: PK-8
| 757 students
Rank: #1212.
Valley Pathways
Alternative School
(Math: ≤20% | Reading: 20-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
1150 North France Rd
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-4650
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-4650
Grades: PK-12
| 153 students
Rank: #1313.
Palmer Middle School
(Math: 13% | Reading: 30%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
1159 S Chugach
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-4300
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 761-4300
Grades: 6-8
| 567 students
Rank: n/an/a
507 N Gulkana
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5300
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 861-5300
Grades: PK-2
| 343 students
Palmer, Alaska Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
Horizon Charter (Closed 2005)
Charter School
Po Box 3927
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 745-4675
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 745-4675
Grades: PK-12
| 158 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Palmer, AK?
The top ranked public schools in Palmer, AK include Academy Charter School, Mat-su Middle College School and Mat-su Secondary School.
How many public schools are located in Palmer?
14 public schools are located in Palmer.
What percentage of students in Palmer go to public school?
98% of all K-12 students in Palmer are educated in public schools (compared to the AK state average of 95%).
What is the racial composition of students in Palmer?
Palmer public schools minority enrollment is 32% of the student body (majority Hispanic and American Indian), which is less than the Alaska public schools average of 53% (majority American Indian).
Which public schools in Palmer are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Palmer include: Palmer High School vs. Colony High School, Palmer Middle School vs. Colony Middle School, Mat-su Secondary School vs. Valley Pathways
Recent Articles
What Is A Charter School?
Explore the world of charter schools in this comprehensive guide. Learn about their history, how they operate, and the pros and cons of this educational innovation. Discover key facts about charter schools, including admission policies, demographics, and funding, as well as what to look for when considering a charter school for your child.
10 Reasons Why High School Sports Benefit Students
Discover the 10 compelling reasons why high school sports are beneficial for students. This comprehensive article explores how athletics enhance academic performance, foster personal growth, and develop crucial life skills. From improved fitness and time management to leadership development and community representation, learn why participating in high school sports can be a game-changer for students' overall success and well-being.
February 05, 2025
Understanding the U.S. Department of Education: Structure, Impact, and EvolutionWe explore how the Department of Education shapes American education, from its cabinet-level leadership to its impact on millions of students, written for general audiences seeking clarity on this vital institution.
