Serving 747 students in grades 9-12, Big Rapids High School ranks in the top 50% of all schools in Michigan for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 50%, and reading proficiency is top 50%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 35-39% (which is higher than the Michigan state average of 34%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 55-59% (which is higher than the Michigan state average of 45%).
The student:teacher ratio of 22:1 is higher than the Michigan state level of 17:1.
Minority enrollment is 10% of the student body (majority Black), which is lower than the Michigan state average of 37% (majority Black).
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 747 students
- Student:Teacher Ratio: 22:1
- Minority Enrollment: 10%
- Graduation Rate: 80-84% (Top 50% in MI)
- Overall Testing Rank: Top 50%
- Math Proficiency: 35-39% (Top 50%)
- Reading Proficiency: 55-59% (Top 30%)
- Science Proficiency: 40-44% (Top 50%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), MI Dept. of Education
School Overview
Big Rapids High School's student population of 747 students has grown by 22% over five school years.
The teacher population of 34 teachers has grown by 21% over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
(offers virtual instruction)
(offers virtual instruction)
Total Students
747 students

Gender %

Total Classroom Teachers
34 teachers

Students by Grade

School Rankings
Big Rapids High School ranks within the top 50% of all 3,069 schools in Michigan (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Big Rapids High School is 0.19, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.56. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#985 out of 3069 schools
(Top 50%)
(Top 50%)

Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
35-39%
34%

Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
55-59%
45%

Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
40-44%
38%

Student : Teacher Ratio
22:1
17:1

American Indian
n/a
1%

Asian
n/a
4%

Hispanic
2%
9%

Black
4%
18%

White
90%
63%

Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
4%
5%

All Ethnic Groups



Graduation Rate
80-84%
81%

Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
39%
50%

Eligible for Reduced Lunch
3%
4%

School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), MI Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Big Rapids High School's ranking?
Big Rapids High School is ranked #985 out of 3,069 schools, which ranks it among the top 50% of public schools in Michigan.
What schools are Big Rapids High School often compared to?
Big Rapids High Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Morley Stanwood High School, Chippewa Hills High School by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
35-39% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 34% MI state average), while 55-59% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 45% MI state average).
What is the graduation rate of Big Rapids High School?
The graduation rate of Big Rapids High School is 80-84%, which is lower than the Michigan state average of 81%.
How many students attend Big Rapids High School?
747 students attend Big Rapids High School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
90% of Big Rapids High School students are White, 4% of students are Black, 4% of students are Two or more races, and 2% of students are Hispanic.
What is the student:teacher ratio of Big Rapids High School?
Big Rapids High School has a student ration of 22:1, which is higher than the Michigan state average of 17:1.
What grades does Big Rapids High School offer ?
Big Rapids High School offers enrollment in grades 9-12 (offers virtual instruction).
What school district is Big Rapids High School part of?
Big Rapids High School is part of Big Rapids School District.
School Reviews
2 8/28/2021
We moved to Big Rapids 8 years ago and have been pleased with the school system. We currently have kids in 3 buildings. The staff are professional, caring, and its a great place for them to learn. They recently passed a bond issue and the buildings are looking great! With two high school students I am very pleased with the variety of opportunities that my kids have from athletics to fine and performing arts as well as a variety of advanced classes and access to dual enrollment opportunities.Great job BR!
1 2/25/2017
Unfair and unsafe show favoritism to students and dislike to others. your child has to fit a mold to not be gossiped about by staff. Teachers PTO kids get chosen by staff to do special events while others who applied to the staff get left behind.
Review Big Rapids High School. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
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.