For the 2025 school year, there are 11 public schools serving 4,609 students in Kelso, WA (there are 3 private schools, serving 127 private students). 97% of all K-12 students in Kelso, WA are educated in public schools (compared to the WA state average of 90%).
The top ranked public schools in Kelso, WA are Butler Acres Elementary School, Kelso High School and Lexington Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Kelso, WA public schools have an average math proficiency score of 28% (versus the Washington public school average of 40%), and reading proficiency score of 46% (versus the 53% statewide average). Schools in Kelso have an average ranking of 4/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Washington public schools.
Minority enrollment is 32% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Washington public school average of 52% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Kelso, WA (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Grades
Students
Rank: #11.
Butler Acres Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
1609 Burcham St
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1600
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1600
Grades: K-5
| 403 students
Rank: #22.
Kelso High School
(Math: 24% | Reading: 71%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
1904 Allen St
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1801
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1801
Grades: 9-12
| 1,379 students
Rank: #33.
Lexington Elementary School
(Math: 42% | Reading: 47%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
200 Boardwalk Way
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1450
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1450
Grades: K-5
| 803 students
Rank: #44.
Rose Valley Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
404 Long Ave
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1400
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1400
Grades: K-5
| 167 students
Rank: #55.
Loowit High School
Alternative School
(Math: <50% | Reading: ≥50% )
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
2001 Allen St
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1951
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1951
Grades: 6-12
| 8 students
Rank: #66.
Huntington Middle School
(Math: 23% | Reading: 41%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
500 Redpath
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1700
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1700
Grades: 6-8
| 567 students
Rank: #77.
Coweeman Middle School
(Math: 22% | Reading: 39%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
2000 Allen St
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1750
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1750
Grades: 6-8
| 510 students
Rank: #88.
Barnes Elementary School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
401 Barnes
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1500
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1500
Grades: K-5
| 322 students
Rank: #99.
Wallace Elementary School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 25-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
1213 S 5th Ave
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1650
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1650
Grades: PK-5
| 386 students
Rank: n/an/a
Kelso Goal Oriented Learning Design
Alternative School
404 Long Ave
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 232-5001
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 232-5001
Grades: 9-12
| 36 students
Rank: n/an/a
Special Education
Special Education School
601 Crawford St
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1904
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1904
Grades: PK-12
| 28 students
Kelso, Washington Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Grades
Students
404 Long Ave.
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1550
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 501-1550
Grades: K-5
| 234 students
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Kelso, WA?
The top ranked public schools in Kelso, WA include Butler Acres Elementary School, Kelso High School and Lexington Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Kelso?
11 public schools are located in Kelso.
What percentage of students in Kelso go to public school?
97% of all K-12 students in Kelso are educated in public schools (compared to the WA state average of 90%).
What is the racial composition of students in Kelso?
Kelso public schools minority enrollment is 32% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Washington public schools average of 52% (majority Hispanic).
Which public schools in Kelso are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Kelso include: Huntington Middle School vs. Coweeman Middle School, Coweeman Middle School vs. Huntington Middle School
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.