Best Public Schools in Hattiesburg, MS

The Hattiesburg, Mississippi area is home to 18 schools across three school districts, including 12 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 3 high schools. The data reveals a mix of high-performing and lower-performing schools, with stark differences between the Lamar County School District and the Hattiesburg Public School District.

Among the standout schools is Oak Grove High School, which consistently ranks among the top high schools in Mississippi, with over 80% proficiency in core subjects. Longleaf Elementary in the Lamar County district is also a top performer, with strong English Language Arts and Mathematics scores. In contrast, schools like Earl Travillion Attendance Center struggle with proficiency rates below 30% in many subjects.

The data also highlights the challenges faced by high-poverty schools, with many schools having over 99% of students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch. However, some schools like Rowan Elementary have shown notable improvements in recent years, suggesting that progress is possible even in difficult circumstances. Overall, the Hattiesburg area presents a diverse educational landscape, with both areas of strength and significant challenges that require attention to support student success across the region.