Columbia County Schools & Education
Columbia County, Washington
School Score
45/100
Higher = better
Rating
Average
Graduation Rate
69.0%
National avg 87.5%
Education Statistics
Graduation Rate
69.0%
National avg 87.5%
State avg 81.4%
Per-Pupil Spending
$10,179
National avg $13,239
State avg $9,250
School Score
45/100
Higher = better
State avg 51/100
State School Rank
#31
of 39 counties (1 = best)
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Education Overview
About Schools in Columbia County, Washington
Intimate Education in a Rural Setting
Columbia County is home to just six public schools serving a total of 578 students across two districts. This tiny network includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. It represents one of the smallest and most personal educational footprints in the state.
High Spending per Student
The county invests heavily in its students, with per-pupil spending at $10,179, far exceeding the state average of $9,250. Despite high investment, the graduation rate is currently 69.0%, and the composite school score is 49.3. These numbers reflect the unique challenges and high costs associated with rural education delivery.
Dayton and Starbuck School Districts
The Dayton School District serves the majority of the county with 393 students across four schools. Starbuck School District handles just 185 students, part of which includes the Virtual Preparatory Academy. There are no charter schools, as the districts provide personalized care to their small student bodies.
Ultra-Small Class Sizes
The average school size is just 96 students, ensuring that every child receives individual attention. Dayton Elementary is the largest school with 193 students, while Starbuck School serves just 20 students in a K-8 setting. Attending school here feels like being part of an extended family in a quiet, town-based environment.
Quiet Living in Dayton
Families seeking an escape from crowded city schools will find Dayton’s intimate classrooms highly appealing. Homes near the Dayton schools offer a walkable, small-town lifestyle that is rare in modern suburbs. Consider Columbia County for a pace of life where the school is the heart of the community.
School Overview
Total Schools
6
in Columbia County
Total Enrollment
578
students
School Districts
2
districts
Charter Schools
0
0% of total
School Type Breakdown
2 School Districts in Columbia County
Dayton School District
Starbuck School District
6 Public Schools in Columbia County
| School Name | District | Grades | Type | Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dayton Elementary School | Dayton School District | PK–5 | Primary | 193 |
| Virtual Preparatory Academy of Washington | Starbuck School District | 1–12 | Other | 165 |
| Dayton High School | Dayton School District | 9–12 | High | 108 |
| Dayton Middle School | Dayton School District | 6–8 | Middle | 89 |
| Starbuck School | Starbuck School District | KG–8 | Primary | 20 |
| Dayton School District Alternative Program | Dayton School District | 9–12 | Alternative | 3 |
Educational Attainment
Annual Per-Pupil Expenditure
$10,179
State avg $9,250
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Frequently Asked Questions
Schools in Columbia County, Washington — FAQ
What does the school system look like in Columbia County, Washington?
Columbia County is home to just six public schools serving a total of 578 students across two districts. This tiny network includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. It represents one of the smallest and most personal educational footprints in the state.
How do schools in Columbia County perform academically?
The county invests heavily in its students, with per-pupil spending at $10,179, far exceeding the state average of $9,250. Despite high investment, the graduation rate is currently 69.0%, and the composite school score is 49.3. These numbers reflect the unique challenges and high costs associated with rural education delivery.
What are the major school districts in Columbia County, Washington?
The Dayton School District serves the majority of the county with 393 students across four schools. Starbuck School District handles just 185 students, part of which includes the Virtual Preparatory Academy. There are no charter schools, as the districts provide personalized care to their small student bodies.
What is the school experience like in Columbia County?
The average school size is just 96 students, ensuring that every child receives individual attention. Dayton Elementary is the largest school with 193 students, while Starbuck School serves just 20 students in a K-8 setting. Attending school here feels like being part of an extended family in a quiet, town-based environment.
How can I find homes near good schools in Columbia County, Washington?
Families seeking an escape from crowded city schools will find Dayton’s intimate classrooms highly appealing. Homes near the Dayton schools offer a walkable, small-town lifestyle that is rare in modern suburbs. Consider Columbia County for a pace of life where the school is the heart of the community.
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.