Best Public Schools in Zip Code 72736

The four public schools in zip code 72736, all part of the top-10% Gravette School District, serve approximately 2,133 students in Gravette, Arkansas, and demonstrate a clear pattern of academic excellence with a strong focus on math acceleration. The standout performer is Gravette High School, a 5-star school ranked 27th in the state, boasting a 94.7% graduation rate and exceptional STEM scores, including an extraordinary 86.5% proficiency in 9th-grade Geometry. Gravette Middle School serves as the district's "math magnet," with a remarkable 90.5% of 8th graders proficient in Algebra—far exceeding the state average of 73.9%—though this creates a notable drop-off to 51.2% Algebra proficiency at the high school level. Gravette Upper Elementary provides balanced, above-average performance across all subjects, while Glenn Duffy Elementary School (serving PK-2) has no test scores but spends the most per student ($14,139) despite having the highest student-teacher ratio (16.2:1).

Key metrics reveal a district-wide commitment to improvement, with all schools showing year-over-year gains in test scores. The high school's Biology proficiency is a consistent strength at 50% (vs. 42.7% state), and the district's free/reduced lunch rates are relatively consistent across schools, ranging from 40% to 48%. However, a notable "dip" occurs in 7th grade at the middle school, where English Language Arts proficiency (32.1%) and Reading proficiency (35.1%) fall below state averages, suggesting a transitional challenge that warrants attention.

For parents, the Gravette district offers a cohesive, high-performing system with a clear strength in early math acceleration, though families should be aware of the potential "cliff" in high school math performance and the 7th-grade reading slump. The high school's low student-teacher ratio (9.3:1) and strong science department make it a standout choice, while the upper elementary provides a solid, well-rounded foundation. Overall, this is a district that excels in STEM and shows consistent upward momentum, making it a compelling option for families prioritizing academic rigor.