Best Public Schools in Cleveland, AL

The city of Cleveland, Alabama, is served by the Blount County school district and is home to just two schools—Cleveland Elementary School (PK-6) and Cleveland High School (7-12)—together educating roughly 888 students in a small, stable community where socioeconomic demographics are nearly identical across both campuses.

Both schools are strong performers within the state, but Cleveland Elementary School is the clear standout, ranking in the 88th percentile statewide and showing consistent year-over-year improvement. Its English Language Arts scores are exceptional, with 3rd grade proficiency at 91%—nearly 27 points above the state average—and 4th grade science proficiency at 79.7%, almost 30 points higher than the state norm. The elementary school also posted dramatic gains in 3rd and 4th grade math (up 14.6 and 17.7 points respectively). Cleveland High School ranks in the 82nd percentile and boasts a remarkable 97.4% graduation rate with a chronic absenteeism rate of just 0.2%—60 times better than the state average. The high school also outperforms its own district averages across nearly every subject, particularly in 7th grade English (70.8% vs. 53.8% district) and 8th grade science (70.4% vs. 54.3% district).

The most notable concern is a sharp "middle school dip" in math: 8th grade proficiency at Cleveland High School falls to just 15.5%, well below the state average of 26.4%, and represents a steep decline from 7th grade (33.9%). This is the only subject and grade combination where the school significantly underperforms state norms, suggesting a potential curriculum alignment issue at that transition point. Additionally, there is a significant spending disparity—the high school spends $11,225 per student versus $7,118 at the elementary school—yet the elementary school delivers stronger academic results. Overall, families in Cleveland can expect excellent early literacy foundations, outstanding attendance culture, and strong science instruction, with the 8th grade math transition being the primary area requiring attention.