For the 2025 school year, there are 3 public elementary schools serving 905 students in 81303, CO.
The top ranked public elementary schools in 81303, CO are Florida Mesa Elementary School, Escalante Middle School and Sunnyside Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 81303 have an average math proficiency score of 29% (versus the Colorado public elementary school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 41% (versus the 43% statewide average). Elementary schools in 81303, CO have an average ranking of 6/10, which is in the top 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 81303, CO Public Elementary Schools (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Florida Mesa Elementary School
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
216 Highway 172
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 247-4250
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 247-4250
Gr: PK-5 | 286 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 41%
Rank: #22.
Escalante Middle School
(Math: 30% | Reading: 43%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
141 Baker Lane
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 247-9491
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 247-9491
Gr: 6-8 | 511 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 37%
Rank: #33.
Sunnyside Elementary School
(Math: ≤10% | Reading: 20-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
75 Cr 218
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 259-5249
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 259-5249
Gr: PK-5 | 108 students Student-teacher ratio: 10:1 Minority enrollment: 40%
81303, Colorado Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Robert Denier Youth Services Center (Closed 2023)
Alternative School
720 Turner Drive
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 375-2781
Durango, CO 81303
(970) 375-2781
Gr: 5-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public elementary schools in 81303, CO?
The top ranked public elementary schools in 81303, CO include Florida Mesa Elementary School, Escalante Middle School and Sunnyside Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 81303?
3 public elementary schools are located in 81303.
What is the racial composition of students in 81303?
81303 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

Why Single-Sex Public Schools are Growing in Popularity
This article examines the growing trend of single-sex public schools in the United States. It explores the potential benefits, research findings, and controversies surrounding gender-specific education, as well as the factors driving its increasing popularity among parents and educators.

When Teachers Cheat: The Standardized Test Controversies
Teachers across the country are being accused of cheating on standardized tests, using erasers to conveniently change their students’ answers. However, are these teachers driven to cheat because the funding system is flawed?

When Field Trips Turn Deadly: Who is Responsible?
Recent deaths during field trips have parents and school officials questioning the safety of these excursions. Learn about these tragedies and what parameters should be in place to ensure a safe field trip.