For the 2025 school year, there are 3 public middle schools serving 638 students in Ford County, IL.
The top ranked public middle schools in Ford County, IL are Gcms Middle School, Paxton-buckley-loda Jr High School and Tri-point Jr High/elementary. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Ford County, IL public middle schools have an average math proficiency score of 32% (versus the Illinois public middle school average of 24%), and reading proficiency score of 34% (versus the 29% statewide average). Middle schools in Ford County have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Illinois public middle schools.
Minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Illinois public middle school average of 61% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Middle Schools in Ford County (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Gcms Middle School
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
316 E 19th St
Gibson City, IL 60936
(217) 784-8731
Gibson City, IL 60936
(217) 784-8731
Grades: 6-8
| 214 students
Rank: #22.
Paxton-buckley-loda Jr High School
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
700 Panther Way
Paxton, IL 60957
(217) 379-9202
Paxton, IL 60957
(217) 379-9202
Grades: 6-8
| 279 students
Rank: #33.
Tri-point Jr High/elementary
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
519 S Margaret Ave
Piper City, IL 60959
(815) 686-2247
Piper City, IL 60959
(815) 686-2247
Grades: 4-8
| 145 students
Ford County Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
112 West 12th St
Gibson City, IL 60936
(217) 784-8505
Gibson City, IL 60936
(217) 784-8505
Grades: PK
| n/a students
P O Box 50
Paxton, IL 60957
(217) 386-2712
Paxton, IL 60957
(217) 386-2712
Grades: 4-5
| 225 students
West Lawn School (Closed 2008)
Special Education School
425 E Orleans
Paxton, IL 60957
(217) 379-2411
Paxton, IL 60957
(217) 379-2411
Grades: n/a
| n/a students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public middle schools in Ford County, IL?
The top ranked public middle schools in Ford County, IL include Gcms Middle School, Paxton-buckley-loda Jr High School and Tri-point Jr High/elementary.
How many public middle schools are located in Ford County?
3 public middle schools are located in Ford County.
What is the racial composition of students in Ford County?
Ford County public middle schools minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Illinois public middle schools average of 61% (majority Hispanic).
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.