For the 2025 school year, there are 5 public schools serving 1,179 students in Carter County, MO.
The top ranked public schools in Carter County, MO are East Carter Co. R-ii Elementary School, East Carter Co. R-ii Middle School and East Carter Co. R-ii High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Carter County, MO public schools have an average math proficiency score of 32% (versus the Missouri public school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 42% (versus the 43% statewide average). Schools in Carter County have an average ranking of 4/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Missouri public schools.
Minority enrollment is 5% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Missouri public school average of 32% (majority Black).
Best Public Schools in Carter County (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
East Carter Co. R-ii Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
24 S Herren Ave
Ellsinore, MO 63937
(573) 322-5325
Ellsinore, MO 63937
(573) 322-5325
Grades: PK-5
| 343 students
Rank: #22.
East Carter Co. R-ii Middle School
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
24 S Herren Ave
Ellsinore, MO 63937
(573) 322-5420
Ellsinore, MO 63937
(573) 322-5420
Grades: 6-8
| 139 students
Rank: #33.
East Carter Co. R-ii High School
(Math: 30-39% | Reading: 40-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
24 S Herren Ave
Ellsinore, MO 63937
(573) 322-5653
Ellsinore, MO 63937
(573) 322-5653
Grades: 9-12
| 184 students
Rank: #44.
Van Buren High School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
202 W College
Van Buren, MO 63965
(573) 323-4295
Van Buren, MO 63965
(573) 323-4295
Grades: 7-12
| 226 students
Rank: #55.
Van Buren Elementary School
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 25-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
902 Broadway
Van Buren, MO 63965
(573) 323-4266
Van Buren, MO 63965
(573) 323-4266
Grades: PK-6
| 287 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Carter County, MO?
The top ranked public schools in Carter County, MO include East Carter Co. R-ii Elementary School, East Carter Co. R-ii Middle School and East Carter Co. R-ii High School.
How many public schools are located in Carter County?
5 public schools are located in Carter County.
What is the racial composition of students in Carter County?
Carter County public schools minority enrollment is 5% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Missouri public schools average of 32% (majority Black).
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.