Best Public Schools in Zip Code 81401

The 81401 zip code area of Montrose, Colorado is home to 11 schools serving students from elementary through high school, including 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, 3 high schools, and 1 alternative school. The academic performance of these schools varies significantly, with some standout performers and others struggling to meet state standards.

At the top of the pack is Cottonwood Elementary School, which boasts the highest CMAS test scores in the area with over 50% of students proficient in English Language Arts and 41% in Math. In contrast, Northside Elementary has some of the lowest proficiency rates, with just 10% of 5th graders meeting math standards. The data suggests a correlation between higher percentages of minority and economically disadvantaged students and weaker academic outcomes.

Among the high schools, Montrose High School stands out as a district leader, with solid performance on state assessments that exceeds the Montrose County School District and Colorado averages. The lone alternative school, Peak Virtual Academy, also demonstrates that online learning can produce strong results, with test scores often topping the district and state.