Serving 491 students in grades 5-6, Ruth Barker Middle School ranks in the top 10% of all schools in Arkansas for overall test scores (math proficiency is top 20%, and reading proficiency is top 20%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 58% (which is higher than the Arkansas state average of 38%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 58% (which is higher than the Arkansas state average of 40%).
The student:teacher ratio of 20:1 is higher than the Arkansas state level of 13:1.
Minority enrollment is 34% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is lower than the Arkansas state average of 42% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: 5-6
- Enrollment: 491 students
- Student:Teacher Ratio: 20:1
- Minority Enrollment: 34%
- Overall Testing Rank: Top 10% in AR
- Math Proficiency: 58% (Top 20%)
- Reading Proficiency: 58% (Top 10%)
- Science Proficiency: 52% (Top 10%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AR Dept. of Education
Top Rankings
Ruth Barker Middle School ranks among the top 20% of public schools in Arkansas for:
Category
Attribute
Overall Rank
Math Proficiency
Reading/Language Arts Proficiency
Science Proficiency
School Overview
Ruth Barker Middle School's student population of 491 students has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
The teacher population of 25 teachers has declined by 21% over five school years.
Grades Offered
Grades 5-6
(offers virtual instruction)
(offers virtual instruction)
Total Students
491 students

Gender %

Total Classroom Teachers
25 teachers

Students by Grade

School Rankings
Ruth Barker Middle School ranks within the top 10% of all 997 schools in Arkansas (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Ruth Barker Middle School is 0.54, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.61. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#84 out of 997 schools
(Top 10%)
(Top 10%)

Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
58%
38%

Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
58%
40%

Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
52%
36%

Student : Teacher Ratio
20:1
13:1

American Indian
3%
n/a

Asian
7%
2%

Hispanic
15%
15%

Black
2%
19%

White
66%
58%

Hawaiian
1%
1%

Two or more races
6%
5%

All Ethnic Groups



Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
21%
56%

Eligible for Reduced Lunch
8%
10%

School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), AR Dept. of Education
Profile last updated: 02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ruth Barker Middle School's ranking?
Ruth Barker Middle School is ranked #84 out of 997 schools, which ranks it among the top 10% of public schools in Arkansas.
What schools are Ruth Barker Middle School often compared to?
Ruth Barker Middle Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Bright Field Middle School by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
58% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 38% AR state average), while 58% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 40% AR state average).
How many students attend Ruth Barker Middle School?
491 students attend Ruth Barker Middle School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
66% of Ruth Barker Middle School students are White, 15% of students are Hispanic, 7% of students are Asian, 6% of students are Two or more races, 3% of students are American Indian, 2% of students are Black, and 1% of students are Hawaiian.
What is the student:teacher ratio of Ruth Barker Middle School?
Ruth Barker Middle School has a student ration of 20:1, which is higher than the Arkansas state average of 13:1.
What grades does Ruth Barker Middle School offer ?
Ruth Barker Middle School offers enrollment in grades 5-6 (offers virtual instruction).
What school district is Ruth Barker Middle School part of?
Ruth Barker Middle School is part of Bentonville School District.
School Reviews
Review Ruth Barker Middle 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.