Best Public Schools in Zip Code 24588

Zip code 24588 (Rustburg, VA) is served by 4 schools in Campbell County Public Schools — two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school — covering pre-K through 12th grade in a rural central Virginia community. The district ranks 58th out of 131 Virginia districts (56th percentile, 3 stars), slightly above the statewide median. Total enrollment is 2,496, and all four schools serve predominantly low-income families, with free/reduced lunch rates from 72.7% to 78.9%. Weighted per-pupil spending is about $8,669, the student-teacher ratio averages 12.2:1, and chronic absenteeism averages 8.5% — well below the state's 14.8%.

Rustburg High posts the strongest outcomes, with a 97.5% graduation rate, a 1.9% dropout rate, and only 7.2% chronic absenteeism — all well ahead of state averages. It is exceptional in advanced math (9th grade Geometry near 99% proficient), but its rank has declined from 92nd to 159th, dragged down by weak social studies and some Biology/Reading scores. Rustburg Middle is the most improved, climbing from the 41st to the 56th percentile, with 8th grade Algebra I near 95% proficient and strong Civics. Among the elementaries, Rustburg Elementary excels in 5th grade science (about 79% proficient) but spends the most per pupil ($10,257). Yellow Branch Elementary spends $1,351 less per student yet ranks higher, making it the more cost-effective choice.

Across the zip code, advanced math, elementary science, and high school graduation/attendance are clear strengths. The main weak spots are 3rd grade reading (below state in both elementaries), 7th grade math and reading at Rustburg Middle, and high school social studies (VA & U.S. History proficiency is just 29%). Both elementary schools struggle in 3rd grade but recover by 5th grade, suggesting an early-literacy challenge that is later overcome. Rustburg Middle has the highest chronic absenteeism in the zip at 11.5%, above the district average. Higher spending does not clearly produce better results: Rustburg Elementary's higher cost has not led to higher rankings. Overall, families can expect solid, mid-pack schools with bright spots in math and science, an improving middle school, and excellent graduation and attendance rates.