Cortland County Schools & Education
Cortland County, New York
School Score
64/100
Higher = better
Rating
Average
Graduation Rate
86.4%
National avg 87.5%
Education Statistics
Graduation Rate
86.4%
National avg 87.5%
State avg 85.3%
Per-Pupil Spending
$14,398
National avg $13,239
State avg $14,719
School Score
64/100
Higher = better
State avg 63/100
State School Rank
#26
of 62 counties (1 = best)
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Education Overview
About Schools in Cortland County, New York
Town and Country Education Infrastructure
Cortland County hosts 17 public schools within six districts, serving a student population of 5,581. The system includes eight elementary schools and five high schools, catering to a balanced mix of town and rural residents. This infrastructure supports a diverse range of learners across the central New York region.
Competitive Performance and Consistent Funding
The county maintains a graduation rate of 86.4%, which is more than a percentage point higher than the New York state average. Schools receive $14,398 in per-pupil spending, staying competitive with regional trends and exceeding the national average. A composite score of 67.6 shows the county performs right in line with the statewide benchmark.
A Balance of Large Districts and Choice
Homer Central and Cortland City are the primary districts, each educating nearly 1,860 students across their respective campuses. Cortland is also home to one charter school, representing roughly 6% of the total schools in the county. This variety offers families a choice between large traditional districts and alternative public options.
Navigating Larger Town Schools and Rural Gems
With 10 schools in town settings and seven in rural areas, the county offers a versatile feel for students. Cortland High School is the largest facility with 596 students, while the countywide average of 328 ensures most buildings remain easy to navigate. The mix of elementary hubs like Homer Elementary creates a structured and welcoming atmosphere.
Settle Down Near Top-Performing Town Districts
Cortland County provides a stable academic environment with graduation rates that consistently outperform the state. Families moving to Homer or Cortland City can benefit from established districts with solid funding and diverse school types. Look for homes in these areas to give your students a competitive edge in their education.
School Overview
Total Schools
17
in Cortland County
Total Enrollment
5,581
students
School Districts
6
districts
Charter Schools
1
6% of total
School Type Breakdown
6 School Districts in Cortland County
HOMER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
CORTLAND CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
MARATHON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
CINCINNATUS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
MCGRAW CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
TRUXTON ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL
17 Public Schools in Cortland County
| School Name | District | Grades | Type | Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORTLAND HIGH SCHOOL | CORTLAND CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT | 9–12 | High | 596 |
| HOMER SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL | HOMER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | 9–12 | High | 579 |
| HOMER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | HOMER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | PK–2 | Primary | 491 |
| FRANKLYN S BARRY PRIMARY SCHOOL | CORTLAND CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT | KG–2 | Primary | 429 |
| HOMER JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL | HOMER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | 6–8 | Middle | 410 |
| WILLIAM APPLEBY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | MARATHON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | PK–6 | Primary | 406 |
| HOMER INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL | HOMER CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | 3–5 | Primary | 379 |
| MARATHON HIGH SCHOOL | MARATHON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | 7–12 | High | 315 |
| CORTLAND JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL | CORTLAND CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT | 7–8 | Middle | 299 |
| MCGRAW SECONDARY SCHOOL | MCGRAW CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | 6–12 | High | 282 |
| FE SMITH INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL | CORTLAND CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT | 3–4 | Primary | 271 |
| RANDALL MIDDLE SCHOOL | CORTLAND CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT | 5–6 | Middle | 263 |
| MCGRAW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | MCGRAW CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | PK–5 | Primary | 232 |
| CINCINNATUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | CINCINNATUS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | PK–4 | Primary | 210 |
| CINCINNATUS HIGH SCHOOL | CINCINNATUS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | 9–12 | High | 176 |
| CINCINNATUS MIDDLE SCHOOL | CINCINNATUS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT | 5–8 | Middle | 142 |
| TRUXTON ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL | TRUXTON ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL | KG–5 | Charter | 101 |
Educational Attainment
Annual Per-Pupil Expenditure
$14,398
State avg $14,719
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Frequently Asked Questions
Schools in Cortland County, New York — FAQ
What does the school system look like in Cortland County, New York?
Cortland County hosts 17 public schools within six districts, serving a student population of 5,581. The system includes eight elementary schools and five high schools, catering to a balanced mix of town and rural residents. This infrastructure supports a diverse range of learners across the central New York region.
How do schools in Cortland County perform academically?
The county maintains a graduation rate of 86.4%, which is more than a percentage point higher than the New York state average. Schools receive $14,398 in per-pupil spending, staying competitive with regional trends and exceeding the national average. A composite score of 67.6 shows the county performs right in line with the statewide benchmark.
What are the major school districts in Cortland County, New York?
Homer Central and Cortland City are the primary districts, each educating nearly 1,860 students across their respective campuses. Cortland is also home to one charter school, representing roughly 6% of the total schools in the county. This variety offers families a choice between large traditional districts and alternative public options.
What is the school experience like in Cortland County?
With 10 schools in town settings and seven in rural areas, the county offers a versatile feel for students. Cortland High School is the largest facility with 596 students, while the countywide average of 328 ensures most buildings remain easy to navigate. The mix of elementary hubs like Homer Elementary creates a structured and welcoming atmosphere.
How can I find homes near good schools in Cortland County, New York?
Cortland County provides a stable academic environment with graduation rates that consistently outperform the state. Families moving to Homer or Cortland City can benefit from established districts with solid funding and diverse school types. Look for homes in these areas to give your students a competitive edge in their education.
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.