For the 2026 school year, there are 4 public schools serving 2,047 students in Chester, NJ (there are , serving 235 private students). 90% of all K-12 students in Chester, NJ are educated in public schools (compared to the NJ state average of 86%).
The top-ranked public schools in Chester, NJ are Bragg Elementary School, Black River Middle School and West Morris Central High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Chester, NJ public schools have an average math proficiency score of 63% (versus the New Jersey public school average of 38%), and reading proficiency score of 71% (versus the 49% statewide average). Schools in Chester have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of New Jersey public schools.
Minority enrollment is 26% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the New Jersey public school average of 62% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Chester, NJ (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Bragg Elementary School
(Math: 69% | Reading: 71%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
250 Route 24
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-5324
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-5324
Gr: 3-5 | 324 students Student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Minority enrollment: 31%
Rank: #22.
Black River Middle School
(Math: 65% | Reading: 71%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
133 Rt. 513 - North Road
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-6363
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-6363
Gr: 6-8 | 330 students Student-teacher ratio: 9:1 Minority enrollment: 26%
Rank: #33.
West Morris Central High School
(Math: 50% | Reading: 70%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
259 Bartley Road
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-5212
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-5212
Gr: 9-12 | 1,023 student Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 23%
Rank: n/an/a
250 Rt. 24
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-5313
Chester, NJ 07930
(908) 879-5313
Gr: PK-2 | 370 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 30%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Chester, NJ?
The top-ranked public schools in Chester, NJ include Bragg Elementary School, Black River Middle School and West Morris Central High School.
How many public schools are located in Chester?
4 public schools are located in Chester.
What percentage of students in Chester go to public school?
90% of all K-12 students in Chester are educated in public schools (compared to the NJ state average of 86%).
What is the racial composition of students in Chester?
Chester public schools minority enrollment is 26% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the New Jersey public schools average of 62% (majority Hispanic).
Which public schools in Chester are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Chester include: Dickerson Elementary School vs. Bragg Elementary School, Bragg Elementary School vs. Dickerson Elementary School
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.