For the 2025 school year, there are 5 public schools serving 944 students in Howard County, NE (there are 1 private school, serving 19 private students). 98% of all K-12 students in Howard County, NE are educated in public schools (compared to the NE state average of 89%).
The top ranked public schools in Howard County, NE are St. Libory Elementary School, St. Paul Elementary School and St. Paul Jr/sr High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Howard County, NE public schools have an average math proficiency score of 51% (versus the Nebraska public school average of 46%), and reading proficiency score of 45% (versus the 47% statewide average). Schools in Howard County have an average ranking of 5/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Nebraska public schools.
Minority enrollment is 11% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Nebraska public school average of 38% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Howard County (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
St. Libory Elementary School
(Math: 60-64% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
435 St Paul Road
Saint Libory, NE 68872
(308) 687-6475
Saint Libory, NE 68872
(308) 687-6475
Grades: PK-8
| 168 students
Rank: #22.
St. Paul Elementary School
(Math: 56% | Reading: 48%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
1305 Howard Ave
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Grades: PK-6
| 373 students
Rank: #33.
St. Paul Jr/sr High School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
1305 Howard Ave
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Grades: 7-12
| 295 students
Rank: #44.
Elba Secondary School
(Math: ≤20% | Reading: 21-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
711 Caroline St
Elba, NE 68835
(308) 863-2228
Elba, NE 68835
(308) 863-2228
Grades: 7-12
| 43 students
Rank: #55.
Elba Elementary School
(Math: ≤10% | Reading: 20-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
711 Caroline St
Elba, NE 68835
(308) 863-2228
Elba, NE 68835
(308) 863-2228
Grades: PK-6
| 65 students
Howard County Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
400 Ramsey St
Farwell, NE 68838
(308) 336-3286
Farwell, NE 68838
(308) 336-3286
Grades: PK-6
| 12 students
400 Ramsey St Po Box 49
Farwell, NE 68838
(308) 336-3286
Farwell, NE 68838
(308) 336-3286
Grades: PK-8
| 22 students
1305 Howard Ave
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Grades: 9-12
| 182 students
1305 Howard Ave
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Saint Paul, NE 68873
(308) 754-4433
Grades: 7-8
| 105 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Howard County, NE?
The top ranked public schools in Howard County, NE include St. Libory Elementary School, St. Paul Elementary School and St. Paul Jr/sr High School.
How many public schools are located in Howard County?
5 public schools are located in Howard County.
What percentage of students in Howard County go to public school?
98% of all K-12 students in Howard County are educated in public schools (compared to the NE state average of 89%).
What is the racial composition of students in Howard County?
Howard County public schools minority enrollment is 11% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Nebraska public schools average of 38% (majority 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.