Serving 436 students in grades Prekindergarten-5, Paynesville Area Elementary School ranks in the bottom 50% of all schools in Minnesota for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 50%, and reading proficiency is top 50%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 45-49% (which is approximately equal to the Minnesota state average of 45%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 45-49% (which is lower than the Minnesota state average of 51%).
The student:teacher ratio of 16:1 is higher than the Minnesota state level of 13:1.
Minority enrollment is 9% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is lower than the Minnesota state average of 39% (majority Black).
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-5
- Enrollment: 436 students
- Student:Teacher Ratio: 16:1
- Minority Enrollment: 9%
- Overall Testing Rank: Bottom 50% in MN
- Math Proficiency: 45-49% (Top 50%)
- Reading Proficiency: 45-49% (Btm 50%)
- Science Proficiency: 35-39% (Btm 50%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), MN Dept. of Education
School Overview
Paynesville Area Elementary School's student population of 436 students has grown by 8% over five school years.
The teacher population of 27 teachers has declined by 12% over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-5
Total Students
436 students

Gender %

Total Classroom Teachers
27 teachers

Students by Grade

School Rankings
Paynesville Area Elementary School ranks within the bottom 50% of all 1,860 schools in Minnesota (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Paynesville Area Elementary School is 0.17, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.59. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#1001 out of 1860 schools
(Bottom 50%)
(Bottom 50%)

Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
45-49%
45%

Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
45-49%
51%

Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
35-39%
41%

Student : Teacher Ratio
16:1
13:1

American Indian
1%
2%

Asian
n/a
7%

Hispanic
5%
12%

Black
n/a
12%

White
91%
61%

Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
3%
6%

All Ethnic Groups



Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
23%
36%

Eligible for Reduced Lunch
6%
7%

School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), MN Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Paynesville Area Elementary School's ranking?
Paynesville Area Elementary School is ranked #1001 out of 1,860 schools, which ranks it among the bottom 50% of public schools in Minnesota.
What schools are Paynesville Area Elementary School often compared to?
Paynesville Area Elementary Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Belgrade-brooten-elrosa Elementary School, Sauk Centre Elementary School by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
45-49% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 45% MN state average), while 45-49% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 51% MN state average).
How many students attend Paynesville Area Elementary School?
436 students attend Paynesville Area Elementary School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
91% of Paynesville Area Elementary School students are White, 5% of students are Hispanic, 3% of students are Two or more races, and 1% of students are American Indian.
What is the student:teacher ratio of Paynesville Area Elementary School?
Paynesville Area Elementary School has a student ration of 16:1, which is higher than the Minnesota state average of 13:1.
What grades does Paynesville Area Elementary School offer ?
Paynesville Area Elementary School offers enrollment in grades Prekindergarten-5
What school district is Paynesville Area Elementary School part of?
Paynesville Area Elementary School is part of Paynesville Area Schools School District.
School Reviews
Review Paynesville Area Elementary School. Reviews should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
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.