Best High Schools in Zip Code 72583

In zip code 72583, there is one high school, Viola High School, serving grades 7 through 12 in the rural community of Viola, Arkansas, with a total enrollment of 185 students.

Viola High School is a small school on a strong upward trajectory, having jumped from the 35th percentile in state rankings two years ago to the 68th percentile (95th out of 293 schools) in the most recent year. The school boasts an extremely low student-to-teacher ratio of 3.9:1, allowing for personalized instruction, and a high graduation rate of 93.5% with a dropout rate of just 0.5%. Over 71% of students are eligible for free or reduced lunch, and the school spends $15,568 per student. While the school's overall test scores are mixed—with strengths in Biology (50% proficient vs. 42.7% statewide) and Mathematics (47% vs. 44.1%), but weaknesses in Geometry (14.8% vs. 26.4%) and Science (37.3% vs. 44%)—a standout finding is that 9th graders achieved dramatically higher proficiency in English Language Arts (56.5%) and Reading (60.9%), far exceeding both the school and state averages. The Viola School District is rated 4 stars and ranks 58th out of 251 districts in Arkansas, and it consistently outperforms the high school in test scores, suggesting the elementary and middle schools are particularly strong.

The most important takeaway for parents is that Viola High School is a school that is clearly improving, with double-digit percentage point gains in every core subject over the last year. The combination of very small class sizes, high per-student spending, and a recent academic turnaround makes it a compelling option, especially for families who value individualized attention. The school's success with 9th graders in English and Reading points to a specific, effective strategy that may expand to other grades, while the district's overall strength provides a solid foundation from elementary through high school.