Top 5 Best Watertown Public Elementary Schools (2025)

For the 2025 school year, there are 7 public elementary schools serving 1,889 students in Watertown, SD.
The top ranked public elementary schools in Watertown, SD are Lincoln Elementary - 05, Mckinley Elementary - 06 and Mellette Elementary - 07. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Watertown, SD public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 55% (versus the South Dakota public elementary school average of 43%), and reading proficiency score of 54% (versus the 49% statewide average). Elementary schools in Watertown have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of South Dakota public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 19% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public elementary school average of 36% (majority American Indian).

Best Public Elementary Schools in Watertown, SD (2025)

School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Lincoln Elementary - 05
(Math: 80-84% | Reading: 70-74%)
Rank:
10/
10
Top 5%
1100 13th St Ne
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6340
Grades: PK-4
| 338 students
Rank: #22.
Mckinley Elementary - 06
(Math: 55-59% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
8/
10
Top 30%
5 12th St Sw
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6350
Grades: PK-4
| 255 students
Rank: #33.
Mellette Elementary - 07
(Math: 65-69% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
7/
10
Top 50%
619 2nd St Nw
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6385
Grades: PK-4
| 235 students
Rank: #44.
Jefferson Elementary - 09
(Math: 60-64% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
6/
10
Top 50%
1701 N Maple St
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6390
Grades: PK-4
| 332 students
Rank: #55.
Watertown Intermediate School - 13
(Math: 47% | Reading: 54%)
Rank:
6/
10
Top 50%
601 11th St Ne
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6355
Grades: 5-6
| 556 students
Rank: #66.
Waverly-south Shore Elementary - 02
(Math: 40-49% | Reading: 40-49%)
Rank:
4/
10
Bottom 50%
319 Mary Pl
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 886-9174
Grades: PK-5
| 113 students
Rank: #77.
Waverly-south Shore Middle School - 03
(Math: 20-29% | Reading: 40-49%)
Rank:
2/
10
Bottom 50%
319 Mary Pl
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 886-9174
Grades: 6-8
| 60 students
[+] Show Closed Public Schools in Watertown, South Dakota

Watertown, South Dakota Public Schools (Closed)

School
Location
Grades
Students
216 10th St Se
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6398
Grades: PK
| 50 students
216 10th St Se
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6399
Grades: PK-K
| 66 students
1311 3rd Ave Ne
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6380
Grades: 9-12
| n/a students
412 2nd St Se
Watertown, SD 57201
(605) 882-6360
Grades: PK-4
| 148 students

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top ranked public elementary schools in Watertown, SD?
The top ranked public elementary schools in Watertown, SD include Lincoln Elementary - 05, Mckinley Elementary - 06 and Mellette Elementary - 07.
How many public elementary schools are located in Watertown?
7 public elementary schools are located in Watertown.
What is the racial composition of students in Watertown?
Watertown public elementary schools minority enrollment is 19% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public elementary schools average of 36% (majority American Indian).

Recent Articles

What Is A Charter School?
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
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
February 05, 2025
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.

Quick Links