For the 2025 school year, there are 12 public schools serving 3,204 students in Ray County, MO.
The top ranked public schools in Ray County, MO are Lawson High School, Southwest Elementary School and Lawson Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Ray County, MO public schools have an average math proficiency score of 37% (versus the Missouri public school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 40% (versus the 43% statewide average). Schools in Ray County have an average ranking of 4/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Missouri public schools.
Minority enrollment is 8% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Black), which is less than the Missouri public school average of 32% (majority Black).
Best Public Schools in Ray County (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Lawson High School
(Math: 60-64% | Reading: 70-74%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 5%10
600 Bob Gill Dr
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 580-7270
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 580-7270
Grades: 9-12
| 369 students
Rank: #22.
Southwest Elementary School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
307 W Moss St
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 580-7272
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 580-7272
Grades: PK-4
| 393 students
Rank: #33.
Lawson Middle School
(Math: 41% | Reading: 47%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
602 Bob Gill Dr
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 580-7279
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 580-7279
Grades: 5-8
| 352 students
Rank: #44.
Hardin-central Elementary School
(Math: 40-49% | Reading: 40-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
500 Ne 1st St
Hardin, MO 64035
(660) 398-4394
Hardin, MO 64035
(660) 398-4394
Grades: PK-6
| 123 students
Rank: #55.
Hardin-central High School
(Math: 40-49% | Reading: 30-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
500 Ne 1st St
Hardin, MO 64035
(660) 398-4394
Hardin, MO 64035
(660) 398-4394
Grades: 7-12
| 101 students
Rank: #66.
Richmond High School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
451 E South
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-2226
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-2226
Grades: 9-12
| 458 students
Rank: #77.
Orrick Elementary School
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
100 Kirkham
Orrick, MO 64077
(816) 770-3922
Orrick, MO 64077
(816) 770-3922
Grades: PK-6
| 156 students
Rank: #88.
Sunrise Elementary School
(Math: 32% | Reading: 36%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
401 Matt Waller Dr
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-3059
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-3059
Grades: 2-5
| 459 students
Rank: #99.
Richmond Middle School
(Math: 29% | Reading: 28%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
715 S Wellington St
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-5841
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-5841
Grades: 6-8
| 331 students
Rank: #1010.
Orrick High School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 20-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
100 Kirkham
Orrick, MO 64077
(816) 770-3327
Orrick, MO 64077
(816) 770-3327
Grades: 7-12
| 122 students
Rank: n/an/a
701 E Main
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-5401
Richmond, MO 64085
(816) 776-5401
Grades: PK-1
| 301 students
Rank: n/an/a
25610 Park Rd North
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 781-8786
Lawson, MO 64062
(816) 781-8786
Grades: 6-12
| 39 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Ray County, MO?
The top ranked public schools in Ray County, MO include Lawson High School, Southwest Elementary School and Lawson Middle School.
How many public schools are located in Ray County?
12 public schools are located in Ray County.
What is the racial composition of students in Ray County?
Ray County public schools minority enrollment is 8% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Black), which is less than the Missouri public schools average of 32% (majority Black).
Which public schools in Ray County are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Ray County include: Richmond High School vs. Lawson High School, Orrick High School vs. Lawson High School, Orrick High School vs. Hardin-central High 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.