For the 2026 school year, there are 3 public elementary schools serving 281 students in Columbia County, WA.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Columbia County, WA are Dayton Middle School, Starbuck School and Dayton Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Columbia County, WA public elementary schools have an average math proficiency score of 43% (versus the Washington public elementary school average of 43%), and reading proficiency score of 42% (versus the 51% statewide average). Elementary schools in Columbia County have an average ranking of 6/10, which is in the top 50% of Washington public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Washington public elementary school average of 52% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Elementary Schools in Columbia County (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Dayton Middle School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
614 S 3rd St
Dayton, WA 99328
(509) 382-4775
Dayton, WA 99328
(509) 382-4775
Gr: 6-8 | 78 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 24%
Rank: #22.
Starbuck School
(Math: <50% | Reading: ≥50% )
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
717 Tucannon St
Starbuck, WA 99359
(509) 399-2381
Starbuck, WA 99359
(509) 399-2381
Gr: PK-8 | 23 students Student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Minority enrollment: 9%
Rank: #33.
Dayton Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
302 E Park
Dayton, WA 99328
(206) 382-2507
Dayton, WA 99328
(206) 382-2507
Gr: PK-5 | 180 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 15%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in Columbia County, WA?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in Columbia County, WA include Dayton Middle School, Starbuck School and Dayton Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in Columbia County?
3 public elementary schools are located in Columbia County.
What is the racial composition of students in Columbia County?
Columbia County public elementary schools minority enrollment is 17% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Washington public elementary schools average of 52% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Esports Programs in Public Schools: Benefits & Funding
Explore how esports programs in public schools support academic achievement, boost student engagement, and operate through sustainable funding models and partnerships.
Apprenticeship Pathways in High School: Alternatives to College
Explore apprenticeship pathways in high school as practical alternatives to traditional college routes, including benefits, programs, and career outcomes.
FAFSA Changes and High School College Counseling
Explore how recent FAFSA changes are reshaping high school college counseling, financial aid planning, and what families should expect in the 2026 application cycle.