For the 2026 school year, there are 5 public schools serving 1,039 students in Ballard County, KY.
The top-ranked public schools in Ballard County, KY are Ballard Memorial High School, Ballard County Elementary School and Ballard County Middle School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Ballard County, KY public schools have an average math proficiency score of 42% (versus the Kentucky public school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 55% (versus the 45% statewide average). Schools in Ballard County have an average ranking of 9/10, which is in the top 20% of Kentucky public schools.
Minority enrollment is 14% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Black), which is less than the Kentucky public school average of 28% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Ballard County (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Ballard Memorial High School
(Math: 60-69% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
10/
Top 10%10
3561 Paducah Rd
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Gr: 9-12 | 265 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 14%
Rank: #22.
Ballard County Elementary School
(Math: 43% | Reading: 54%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
3383 Paducah Rd
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Gr: K-5 | 463 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 13%
Rank: #33.
Ballard County Middle School
(Math: 37% | Reading: 55%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
3561 Paducah Rd
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Gr: 6-8 | 221 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 9%
Rank: n/an/a
3383 Paducah Road
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Gr: PK | 90 students Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 28%
Rank: n/an/a
Ballard County Career And Technology Center
Vocational School
11 Vocational School Rd
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Barlow, KY 42024
(270) 665-8400
Gr: 9-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Ballard County, KY?
The top-ranked public schools in Ballard County, KY include Ballard Memorial High School, Ballard County Elementary School and Ballard County Middle School.
How many public schools are located in Ballard County?
5 public schools are located in Ballard County.
What is the racial composition of students in Ballard County?
Ballard County public schools minority enrollment is 14% of the student body (majority Hispanic and Black), which is less than the Kentucky public schools average of 28% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Transitioning to High School: A Family Guide
Learn how to prepare for high school with practical tips for families before freshman year, from academics to social readiness.
School Vouchers 2026: Updated Pros and Cons
Explore school vouchers in 2026, including updated pros, cons, policy changes, and what families should know before choosing.
Transitioning to Middle School: Summer Planning Guide
A practical 2026 summer planning guide to help parents support a smooth middle school transition for their child.