Serving 748 students in grades 9-12, Payson High School ranks in the top 50% of all schools in Arizona for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 50%, and reading proficiency is top 50%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 35-39% (which is approximately equal to the Arizona state average of 35%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 35-39% (which is lower than the Arizona state average of 40%).
The student:teacher ratio of 17:1 is equal to the Arizona state level of 17:1.
Minority enrollment is 35% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is lower than the Arizona state average of 66% (majority Hispanic).
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 748 students
- Student:Teacher Ratio: 17:1
- Minority Enrollment: 35%
- Graduation Rate: 80-84% (Top 50% in AZ)
- Overall Testing Rank: Top 50%
- Math Proficiency: 35-39% (Top 50%)
- Reading Proficiency: 35-39% (Top 50%)
- Science Proficiency: 15-19% (Btm 50%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AZ Dept. of Education
School Overview
Payson High School's student population of 748 students has grown by 9% over five school years.
The teacher population of 43 teachers has grown by 38% over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
Total Students
748 students

Gender %

Total Classroom Teachers
43 teachers

Students by Grade

School Rankings
Payson High School ranks within the top 50% of all 1,956 schools in Arizona (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Payson High School is 0.51, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.66. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#825 out of 1956 schools
(Top 50%)
(Top 50%)

Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
35-39%
35%

Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
35-39%
40%

Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
15-19%
24%
Student : Teacher Ratio
17:1
17:1

American Indian
3%
5%

Asian
n/a
3%

Hispanic
27%
48%

Black
1%
6%

White
65%
34%

Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
4%
4%

All Ethnic Groups



Graduation Rate
80-84%
77%

Eligible for Free Lunch
35%
40%

Eligible for Reduced Lunch
5%
10%

School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AZ Dept. of Education
Profile last updated:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Payson High School's ranking?
Payson High School is ranked #825 out of 1,956 schools, which ranks it among the top 50% of public schools in Arizona.
What schools are Payson High School often compared to?
Payson High Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Globe High School, Yuma High School, American Leadership Academy Ironwood K12 by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
35-39% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 35% AZ state average), while 35-39% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 40% AZ state average).
What is the graduation rate of Payson High School?
The graduation rate of Payson High School is 80-84%, which is higher than the Arizona state average of 77%.
How many students attend Payson High School?
748 students attend Payson High School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
65% of Payson High School students are White, 27% of students are Hispanic, 4% of students are Two or more races, 3% of students are American Indian, and 1% of students are Black.
What is the student:teacher ratio of Payson High School?
Payson High School has a student ration of 17:1, which is equal to the Arizona state average of 17:1.
What grades does Payson High School offer ?
Payson High School offers enrollment in grades 9-12
What school district is Payson High School part of?
Payson High School is part of Payson Unified District (4209) School District.
School Calendar
View the Payson High School yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:
Event
Date
Spring Break
March 10, 2025 (Monday)
School Reviews
Review Payson High 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.

Understanding the U.S. Department of Education: Structure, Impact, and Evolution
We 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.