For the 2025 school year, there are 4 public schools serving 1,122 students in Benton, MO (there are , serving 100 private students). 92% of all K-12 students in Benton, MO are educated in public schools (compared to the MO state average of 88%).
The top ranked public schools in Benton, MO are Kelso Elementary School, Thomas W. Kelly High School and Scott Co. Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Benton, MO public schools have an average math proficiency score of 30% (versus the Missouri public school average of 40%), and reading proficiency score of 38% (versus the 43% statewide average). Schools in Benton have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Missouri public schools.
Minority enrollment is 6% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Missouri public school average of 32% (majority Black).
Best Public Schools in Benton, MO (2025)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Kelso Elementary School
(Math: 50-54% | Reading: 70-74%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
820 State Hwy A
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3357
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3357
Gr: PK-8 | 210 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 2%
Rank: #22.
Thomas W. Kelly High School
(Math: 10-14% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
4035 State Hwy 77
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3541
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3541
Gr: 9-12 | 315 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 5%
Rank: #33.
Scott Co. Elementary School
(Math: 30-34% | Reading: 30-34%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
4035 State Hwy 77
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3541
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3541
Gr: PK-5 | 401 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 9%
Rank: #44.
Scott Co. Middle School
(Math: 24% | Reading: 24%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
4035 State Hwy 77
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3541
Benton, MO 63736
(573) 545-3541
Gr: 6-8 | 196 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 9%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ranked public schools in Benton, MO?
The top ranked public schools in Benton, MO include Kelso Elementary School, Thomas W. Kelly High School and Scott Co. Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Benton?
4 public schools are located in Benton.
What percentage of students in Benton go to public school?
92% of all K-12 students in Benton are educated in public schools (compared to the MO state average of 88%).
What is the racial composition of students in Benton?
Benton public schools minority enrollment is 6% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Missouri public schools average of 32% (majority Black).
Which public schools in Benton are often viewed compared to one another?
Popular comparisons of public schools in Benton include: Kelso Elementary School vs. Scott Co. Elementary School, Scott Co. Elementary School vs. Kelso Elementary School
Recent Articles

Why Single-Sex Public Schools are Growing in Popularity
This article examines the growing trend of single-sex public schools in the United States. It explores the potential benefits, research findings, and controversies surrounding gender-specific education, as well as the factors driving its increasing popularity among parents and educators.

When Teachers Cheat: The Standardized Test Controversies
Teachers across the country are being accused of cheating on standardized tests, using erasers to conveniently change their students’ answers. However, are these teachers driven to cheat because the funding system is flawed?

When Field Trips Turn Deadly: Who is Responsible?
Recent deaths during field trips have parents and school officials questioning the safety of these excursions. Learn about these tragedies and what parameters should be in place to ensure a safe field trip.