For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public elementary schools serving 781 students in 50436, IA.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 50436, IA are Forest City Elementary School and Forest City Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 50436 have an average math proficiency score of 79% (versus the Iowa public elementary school average of 70%), and reading proficiency score of 78% (versus the 69% statewide average). Elementary schools in 50436, IA have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of Iowa public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 19% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Iowa public elementary school average of 29% (majority Hispanic).
Best 50436, IA Public Elementary Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Forest City Elementary School
(Math: 80-84% | Reading: 75-79%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
1405 W I St
Forest City, IA 50436
(641) 585-2670
Forest City, IA 50436
(641) 585-2670
Gr: PK-4 | 462 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 21%
Rank: #22.
Forest City Middle School
(Math: 77% | Reading: 78%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
216 W School St
Forest City, IA 50436
(641) 585-4772
Forest City, IA 50436
(641) 585-4772
Gr: 5-8 | 319 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 16%
50436, Iowa Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Forest City Alternative School (Closed 2014)
Alternative School
145 South Clark St
Forest City, IA 50436
(641) 585-2324
Forest City, IA 50436
(641) 585-2324
Gr: 9-12 | 15 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 20%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 50436, IA?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 50436, IA include Forest City Elementary School and Forest City Middle School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 50436?
2 public elementary schools are located in 50436.
What is the racial composition of students in 50436?
50436 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 19% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Iowa public elementary schools average of 29% (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.