Best Public Schools in Hernando, MS

The city of Hernando, Mississippi is home to 6 schools serving students from elementary through high school, all part of the Desoto County School District. These schools demonstrate exceptional academic performance, with several consistently ranking among the top schools in the state. However, the district faces significant socioeconomic challenges, with nearly all students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch.

The standout schools in Hernando include Hernando High School, which has been ranked among the top 3-7 high schools in Mississippi over the past 3 years, and the Hernando Middle School and Lewisburg Middle, both of which have been ranked among the top 1-7 middle schools in the state. These schools consistently outperform the district and state averages on standardized tests, with proficiency rates often 10-20 percentage points higher than the state.

Despite the academic excellence, the Hernando schools face significant socioeconomic challenges, with nearly all students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. This indicates a high level of poverty in the community and the need for additional resources and support to address the unique needs of these students. The district's effective allocation of resources, as evidenced by the relatively low per-student spending and small class sizes, suggests a strong focus on supporting student learning and achievement.