For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public elementary schools serving 1,353 students in 81520, CO.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 81520, CO are Mount Garfield Middle School, Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Clifton Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 81520 have an average math proficiency score of 14% (versus the Colorado public elementary school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 31% (versus the 43% statewide average). Elementary schools in 81520, CO have an average ranking of 2/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Colorado public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 39% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public elementary school average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Best 81520, CO Public Elementary Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Mount Garfield Middle School
(Math: 15% | Reading: 38%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
3475 Front Street
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4720
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4720
Gr: 6-8 | 562 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 36%
Rank: #22.
Rocky Mountain Elementary School
(Math: 14% | Reading: 22%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
3260 D1/2 Road
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4900
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4900
Gr: PK-5 | 416 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 44%
Rank: #33.
Clifton Elementary School
(Math: 10-14% | Reading: 15-19%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
3276 F Road
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4760
Clifton, CO 81520
(970) 254-4760
Gr: PK-5 | 375 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 38%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 81520, CO?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 81520, CO include Mount Garfield Middle School, Rocky Mountain Elementary School and Clifton Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 81520?
3 public elementary schools are located in 81520.
What is the racial composition of students in 81520?
81520 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 39% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public elementary schools average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Back-to-School Tech & Online Learning Readiness Checklist
A 2026 guide to back-to-school tech & online learning readiness, helping families prepare devices, connectivity, skills, and safety.
How Public Schools Prepare for College in High School
Learn how public schools prepare for college and what parents should look for as students begin high school. Updated for 2026.
School Choice in 2026: What Parents Must Know
Explore how school choice is reshaping U.S. education in 2026, with updated trends, enrollment data, costs, policies, and practical guidance for parents.