For the 2025 school year, there are 12 public schools serving 3,514 students in Canton, MS (there are 2 private schools, serving 333 private students). 91% of all K-12 students in Canton, MS are educated in public schools (compared to the MS state average of 89%).
The top ranked public schools in Canton, MS are Luther Branson School, Shirley D. Simmons Middle School and Mc Neal Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Canton, MS public schools have an average math proficiency score of 42% (versus the Mississippi public school average of 47%), and reading proficiency score of 31% (versus the 42% statewide average). Schools in Canton have an average ranking of 5/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Mississippi public schools.
Minority enrollment is 99% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Mississippi public school average of 58% (majority Black).
Best Public Schools in Canton, MS (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Luther Branson School
(Math: 65-69% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
3903 Highway 16 E
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-2743
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-2743
Grades: PK-5
| 143 students
Rank: #22.
Shirley D. Simmons Middle School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
820 Sulphur Springs Road
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 855-2406
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 855-2406
Grades: 6-8
| 139 students
Rank: #33.
Mc Neal Elementary School
(Math: 38% | Reading: 35%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
364 Martin Luther King Drive
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3654
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3654
Grades: PK-5
| 391 students
Rank: #44.
Nichols Middle School
(Math: 58% | Reading: 18%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
529 North Mace Street
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3741
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3741
Grades: 6-8
| 388 students
Rank: #55.
Reuben B. Myers Canton School Of Ar
(Math: 15-19% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
357 Old Yazoo Road
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 855-7819
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 855-7819
Grades: PK-5
| 386 students
Rank: #66.
Huey L. Porter Middle School
(Math: 39% | Reading: 28%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
551 Finney Road
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 407-1815
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 407-1815
Grades: 6-8
| 376 students
Rank: #77.
Jimmie M. Goodloe Elementary School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
551 Finney Road
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 407-1810
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 407-1810
Grades: PK-5
| 399 students
Rank: #88.
Canton Elementary School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
365 Vanburen Street
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-2400
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-2400
Grades: PK-5
| 387 students
Rank: #99.
Canton Public High School
(Math: 35-39% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
634 Finney Road
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-5325
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-5325
Grades: 10-12
| 643 students
Rank: n/an/a
Canton Career Center
Vocational School
487 North Union Extension
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3984
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3984
Grades: 10-12
| n/a students
Rank: n/an/a
Canton Educational Services Center
Alternative School
529 Mace Street
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-5010
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-5010
Grades: 4-12
| n/a students
Rank: n/an/a
634 Finney Road
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3866
Canton, MS 39046
(601) 859-3866
Grades: 9
| 262 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Canton, MS?
The top ranked public schools in Canton, MS include Luther Branson School, Shirley D. Simmons Middle School and Mc Neal Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Canton?
12 public schools are located in Canton.
What percentage of students in Canton go to public school?
91% of all K-12 students in Canton are educated in public schools (compared to the MS state average of 89%).
What is the racial composition of students in Canton?
Canton public schools minority enrollment is 99% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Mississippi public schools average of 58% (majority Black).
Which public schools in Canton are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Canton include: Huey L. Porter Middle School vs. Nichols Middle School, Nichols Middle School vs. Huey L. Porter Middle School, Jimmie M. Goodloe Elementary School vs. Canton Elementary School
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.