For the 2025 school year, there are 4 public high schools serving 551 students in Palo Alto County, IA.
The top ranked public high schools in Palo Alto County, IA are Emmetsburg High School, Graettinger-terril High School and West Bend-mallard High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Palo Alto County, IA public high schools have an average math proficiency score of 51% (versus the Iowa public high school average of 60%), and reading proficiency score of 72% (versus the 71% statewide average). High schools in Palo Alto County have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Iowa public high schools.
Palo Alto County, IA public high school have a Graduation Rate of 79%, which is less than the Iowa average of 88%.
The school with highest graduation rate is Emmetsburg High School, with 80-89% graduation rate. Read more about public school graduation rate statistics in Iowa or national school graduation rate statistics.
Minority enrollment is 9% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Iowa public high school average of 27% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public High Schools in Palo Alto County (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Emmetsburg High School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 75-79%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
205 King St
Emmetsburg, IA 50536
(712) 852-2966
Emmetsburg, IA 50536
(712) 852-2966
Grades: 9-12
| 240 students
Rank: #22.
Graettinger-terril High School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
205 S Lincoln Ave
Graettinger, IA 51342
(712) 859-3286
Graettinger, IA 51342
(712) 859-3286
Grades: 9-12
| 118 students
Rank: #33.
West Bend-mallard High School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
300 3rd Ave Sw
West Bend, IA 50597
(515) 887-7831
West Bend, IA 50597
(515) 887-7831
Grades: 9-12
| 123 students
Rank: #44.
Ruthven-ayrshire High School
(Math: 35-39% | Reading: 65-69%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
1505 Washington St
Ruthven, IA 51358
(712) 837-5212
Ruthven, IA 51358
(712) 837-5212
Grades: 7-12
| 70 students
Palo Alto County Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
Po Box 58
Graettinger, IA 51342
(712) 859-3286
Graettinger, IA 51342
(712) 859-3286
Grades: 6-8
| 54 students
300 3rd Ave Sw
West Bend, IA 50597
(515) 887-7821
West Bend, IA 50597
(515) 887-7821
Grades: PK-2
| 73 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public high schools in Palo Alto County, IA?
The top ranked public high schools in Palo Alto County, IA include Emmetsburg High School, Graettinger-terril High School and West Bend-mallard High School.
How many public high schools are located in Palo Alto County?
4 public high schools are located in Palo Alto County.
What is the racial composition of students in Palo Alto County?
Palo Alto County public high schools minority enrollment is 9% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Iowa public high schools average of 27% (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.