Bell County Schools & Education
Bell County, Kentucky
School Score
77/100
Higher = better
Rating
High Performing
Graduation Rate
97.0%
National avg 87.5%
Education Statistics
Graduation Rate
97.0%
National avg 87.5%
State avg 93.8%
Per-Pupil Spending
$7,726
National avg $13,239
State avg $6,894
School Score
77/100
Higher = better
State avg 57/100
State School Rank
#4
of 120 counties (1 = best)
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Education Overview
About Schools in Bell County, Kentucky
High-Quality Infrastructure in Bell County
Bell County manages a broad network of 18 public schools, serving a total of 4,150 students. This extensive system includes seven elementary schools, five high schools, and five specialized centers, split across three active districts. It is one of the more diverse educational landscapes in the region, offering varied school types and sizes.
Top-Tier Scores and Graduation Success
Bell County shines with a school score of 58.8, well above the state average of 55.3. Its graduation rate of 97.0% is among the highest in the state and significantly beats the national average of 87.0%. These results are supported by a strong per-pupil investment of $7,726, which exceeds the Kentucky state average.
Three Districts Providing Choice and Excellence
The county is served by the Bell County district (2,453 students), Middlesboro Independent (1,120 students), and Pineville Independent (577 students). No charter schools operate in the area, but the three-district model provides significant local oversight. Each district maintains its own unique tradition and strong graduation performance.
A Mix of Town Hubs and Rural Schools
Education in Bell County is split between 10 rural schools and eight town-based campuses, with an average size of 319 students. Bell County High School is the largest with 695 students, while many other schools maintain intimate sizes under 500. This variety allows families to choose between centralized town schools or smaller rural centers.
Relocate to a High-Achieving Community
With a 97% graduation rate and scores that lead the state, Bell County is a premier destination for families focused on education. The presence of three distinct districts means you can find the perfect home near the school that best fits your child. Explore real estate in Bell County to secure a bright academic future.
School Overview
Total Schools
18
in Bell County
Total Enrollment
4,150
students
School Districts
3
districts
Charter Schools
0
0% of total
School Type Breakdown
3 School Districts in Bell County
Bell County
Middlesboro Independent
Pineville Independent
18 Public Schools in Bell County
| School Name | District | Grades | Type | Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bell County High School | Bell County | 9–12 | High | 695 |
| Pineville Independent School | Pineville Independent | PK–12 | Other | 577 |
| Yellow Creek School Center | Bell County | PK–8 | Primary | 559 |
| Bell Central School Center | Bell County | PK–8 | Primary | 478 |
| Middlesboro Elementary School | Middlesboro Independent | PK–4 | Primary | 453 |
| Middlesboro High School | Middlesboro Independent | 9–12 | High | 352 |
| Page School Center | Bell County | PK–8 | Primary | 285 |
| Middlesboro Middle School | Middlesboro Independent | 5–8 | Middle | 281 |
| Lone Jack School Center | Bell County | PK–8 | Primary | 199 |
| Right Fork School Center | Bell County | PK–8 | Primary | 138 |
| Frakes School Center | Bell County | PK–8 | Primary | 99 |
| Middlesboro Alternative School | Middlesboro Independent | 7–12 | Alternative | 29 |
| Middlesboro Group Home School | Middlesboro Independent | 6–12 | Alternative | 5 |
| Bell County Area Technology Center | Kentucky Tech System | 8–12 | Vocational | 0 |
| Cumberland Tech - Southeast Campus | Middlesboro Independent | UG | Vocational | 0 |
| Southeast TECH | Middlesboro Independent | UG | Vocational | 0 |
| Cumberland Valley Health Tech Center | Pineville Independent | UG | Vocational | 0 |
| Cumberland Technical College | Pineville Independent | UG | Vocational | 0 |
Educational Attainment
Annual Per-Pupil Expenditure
$7,726
State avg $6,894
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Frequently Asked Questions
Schools in Bell County, Kentucky — FAQ
What does the school system look like in Bell County, Kentucky?
Bell County manages a broad network of 18 public schools, serving a total of 4,150 students. This extensive system includes seven elementary schools, five high schools, and five specialized centers, split across three active districts. It is one of the more diverse educational landscapes in the region, offering varied school types and sizes.
How do schools in Bell County perform academically?
Bell County shines with a school score of 58.8, well above the state average of 55.3. Its graduation rate of 97.0% is among the highest in the state and significantly beats the national average of 87.0%. These results are supported by a strong per-pupil investment of $7,726, which exceeds the Kentucky state average.
What are the major school districts in Bell County, Kentucky?
The county is served by the Bell County district (2,453 students), Middlesboro Independent (1,120 students), and Pineville Independent (577 students). No charter schools operate in the area, but the three-district model provides significant local oversight. Each district maintains its own unique tradition and strong graduation performance.
What is the school experience like in Bell County?
Education in Bell County is split between 10 rural schools and eight town-based campuses, with an average size of 319 students. Bell County High School is the largest with 695 students, while many other schools maintain intimate sizes under 500. This variety allows families to choose between centralized town schools or smaller rural centers.
How can I find homes near good schools in Bell County, Kentucky?
With a 97% graduation rate and scores that lead the state, Bell County is a premier destination for families focused on education. The presence of three distinct districts means you can find the perfect home near the school that best fits your child. Explore real estate in Bell County to secure a bright academic future.
Counties with Similar School Profile
Data Sources
Education data sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey. School scores are derived composite metrics.
Data is informational only. Coverage varies by county and reporting year. Not for use as the sole basis for educational decisions.