Best Public Schools in Zip Code 24228

The three public schools in zip code 24228 (Clintwood, Virginia) form a complete PK-12 pathway within Dickenson County Public Schools, serving a high-poverty rural community where roughly 96-98% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Ridgeview Elementary provides a strong foundation, ranking in the 63rd percentile statewide and exceeding Virginia's proficiency rates in every tested subject and grade in 2025-26. Ridgeview Middle is the standout for momentum, jumping from the 45th to 66th percentile in a single year with double-digit gains in 6th grade math and reading, plus perfect 100% proficiency on 8th grade Algebra I and Geography. Ridgeview High posts solid outcomes, including a 94.4% graduation rate and strong scores in Biology, Geometry, and Algebra I, though its state ranking has slipped to the 49th percentile and 11th grade reading lags the state.

All three schools face a significant challenge with chronic absenteeism, running between 28-31% — roughly double the state average of 14.8%. The high school has the highest rate (31.4%) yet still graduates students above the state average, suggesting that reducing absenteeism could be the highest-leverage improvement opportunity. The middle school's math acceleration is impressive, with 100% Algebra I proficiency, but 8th grade general math (49%) and 8th grade science (58.8%) remain modest.

High school World History I (60.8% vs. 72.2% state) is a clear weak spot, while middle school social studies excels. Spending varies notably, with the high school investing $13,618 per student compared to $8,832 at the elementary school, supporting a low 9.8:1 student-teacher ratio. Overall, this is a school system beating the odds despite high poverty, with the clearest path forward being improved attendance and stronger high school literacy support.