For the 2025 school year, there are 7 public preschools serving 2,463 students in West Plains, MO.
The top ranked public preschools in West Plains, MO are Howell Valley Elementary School, South Fork Elementary School and Richards Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
West Plains, MO public preschools have an average math proficiency score of 38% (versus the Missouri public pre school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 40% (versus the 37% statewide average). Pre schools in West Plains have an average ranking of 5/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Missouri public pre schools.
Minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Missouri public preschool average of 36% (majority Black).
Best Public Preschools in West Plains, MO (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Howell Valley Elementary School
(Math: 65-69% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
6461 State Rte Zz
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-2268
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-2268
Grades: PK-8
| 206 students
Rank: #22.
South Fork Elementary School
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
3209 Us Hwy 160
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-2836
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-2836
Grades: PK-6
| 183 students
Rank: #33.
Richards Elementary School
(Math: 38% | Reading: 38%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
3461 County Rd 1710
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-5239
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-5239
Grades: PK-8
| 385 students
Rank: #44.
Fairview Elementary School
(Math: 36% | Reading: 40%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
4036 State Rte K
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-1063
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-1063
Grades: PK-8
| 487 students
Rank: #5 - 65. - 6.
Glenwood Elementary School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
10286 State Rte 17
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-4849
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-4849
Grades: PK-8
| 245 students
Rank: #5 - 65. - 6.
Junction Hill Elementary School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
8004 County Rd 3010
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-4265
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-4265
Grades: PK-8
| 181 students
Rank: #77.
West Plains Elementary School
(Math: 29% | Reading: 27%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
1136 Allen St
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-6150
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-6150
Grades: PK-4
| 776 students
West Plains, Missouri Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
3461 County Rd 1710
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-5239
West Plains, MO 65775
(417) 256-5239
Grades: 6-8
| 129 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public preschools in West Plains, MO?
The top ranked public preschools in West Plains, MO include Howell Valley Elementary School, South Fork Elementary School and Richards Elementary School.
How many public preschools are located in West Plains?
7 public preschools are located in West Plains.
What is the racial composition of students in West Plains?
West Plains public preschools minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Missouri public preschools average of 36% (majority Black).
Which public preschools in West Plains are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public preschools in West Plains include: Glenwood Elementary School vs. Fairview Elementary School, Howell Valley Elementary School vs. Fairview Elementary School, West Plains Elementary School vs. Richards Elementary School
Recent Articles

Sexual Harassment at Age 6: The Tale of a First Grade Suspension
A six-year old in Aurora, Colorado, was suspended after singing an LMFAO song to a little girl in his class and reportedly “shaking his booty.” We look at the case and the sexual harassment problem in public schools today.

How Scaffolding Could Change the Way Your Child Learns
This article explores the concept of instructional scaffolding, a teaching method that enhances learning by breaking down complex tasks into manageable parts. It highlights how scaffolding supports students in developing critical thinking skills and becoming more independent learners. The article discusses the benefits of scaffolding, including improved engagement and reduced anxiety, and provides strategies for its implementation across various educational levels.

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.