For the 2025 school year, there are 7 public schools serving 1,394 students in Jackson County, MN (there are 2 private schools, serving 137 private students). 91% of all K-12 students in Jackson County, MN are educated in public schools (compared to the MN state average of 90%).
The top ranked public schools in Jackson County, MN are Riverside Elementary School, Pleasantview Elementary School and Jackson County Central Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Jackson County, MN public schools have an average math proficiency score of 39% (versus the Minnesota public school average of 45%), and reading proficiency score of 43% (versus the 51% statewide average). Schools in Jackson County have an average ranking of 2/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Minnesota public schools.
Minority enrollment is 18% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Minnesota public school average of 39% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Jackson County (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Riverside Elementary School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
820 Park St
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-5963
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-5963
Grades: PK-3
| 362 students
Rank: #22.
Pleasantview Elementary School
(Math: 35-39% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
703 Mill Road E
Lakefield, MN 56150
(507) 662-6625
Lakefield, MN 56150
(507) 662-6625
Grades: 4-5
| 175 students
Rank: #33.
Jackson County Central Middle School
(Math: 48% | Reading: 43%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
703 Mill Road E
Lakefield, MN 56150
(507) 662-6625
Lakefield, MN 56150
(507) 662-6625
Grades: 6-8
| 236 students
Rank: #44.
Jackson County Central Senior High School
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 30-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
1128 N Hwy
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-5310
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-5310
Grades: 9-12
| 331 students
Rank: #55.
Heron Lake-okabena Elementary School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
321 Stearns Ave
Heron Lake, MN 56137
(507) 793-2307
Heron Lake, MN 56137
(507) 793-2307
Grades: PK-6
| 132 students
Rank: #66.
Heron Lake-okabena Secondary
(Math: 11-19% | Reading: 30-34%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
124 N Minnesota Ave
Okabena, MN 56161
(507) 853-4507
Okabena, MN 56161
(507) 853-4507
Grades: 7-12
| 158 students
Rank: n/an/a
Jackson Co Central Credit Recovery
Alternative School
1128 North Highway
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-5310
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-5310
Grades: 9-12
| n/a students
Jackson County Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
Southwest Alc (Closed 2004)
Alternative School
407 5th St.
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-4597
Jackson, MN 56143
(507) 847-4597
Grades: 6-12
| 37 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Jackson County, MN?
The top ranked public schools in Jackson County, MN include Riverside Elementary School, Pleasantview Elementary School and Jackson County Central Middle School.
How many public schools are located in Jackson County?
7 public schools are located in Jackson County.
What percentage of students in Jackson County go to public school?
91% of all K-12 students in Jackson County are educated in public schools (compared to the MN state average of 90%).
What is the racial composition of students in Jackson County?
Jackson County public schools minority enrollment is 18% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Minnesota public schools average of 39% (majority Black and 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.