For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 371 students in 81428, CO.
The top-ranked public schools in 81428, CO are North Fork School Of Integrated Studies and Paonia K-8. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 81428 have an average math proficiency score of 49% (versus the Colorado public school average of 33%), and reading proficiency score of 61% (versus the 45% statewide average). Schools in 81428, CO have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Colorado public schools.
Minority enrollment is 16% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public school average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Best 81428, CO Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
North Fork School Of Integrated Studies
Magnet School
(Math: 50-59% | Reading: 50-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
430 Box Elder
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Gr: PK-6 | 119 students Student-teacher ratio: 17:1 Minority enrollment: 12%
Rank: #22.
Paonia K-8
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 60-64%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
430 Box Elder
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3639
Gr: PK-8 | 252 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 17%
81428, Colorado Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Lamborn Vision School (Closed 2011)
Alternative School
15521 Black Bridge Rd
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3165
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-3165
Gr: K-12
846 Grand Avenue
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4882
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4882
Gr: 7-12 | 213 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 22%
P O Box 10
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4833
Paonia, CO 81428
(970) 527-4833
Gr: 6-8 | 119 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 10%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 81428, CO?
The top-ranked public schools in 81428, CO include North Fork School Of Integrated Studies and Paonia K-8.
How many public schools are located in 81428?
2 public schools are located in 81428.
What is the racial composition of students in 81428?
81428 public schools minority enrollment is 16% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Colorado public schools average of 50% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Year-Round Schooling in 2026: Updated Parent Guide
Explore the latest 2026 data, trends, costs, and parent planning tips in the ongoing debate over year-round schooling vs the traditional calendar.
No Child Left Behind: Past, Present, and Future of U.S. School Policy
Explore how No Child Left Behind evolved into ESSA, what it means for 2025‑26 schooling, and what parents need to know about testing, admissions planning, and funding.
Understanding Public School Fees & Optional Costs Guide
Discover what public school fees are required versus optional, with 2026 updates for parents, students, and educators on budgeting and planning.