For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 902 students in West Helena, AR (there are 2 private schools, serving 275 private students). 69% of all K-12 students in West Helena, AR are educated in public schools (compared to the AR state average of 95%).
The top-ranked public schools in West Helena, AR are Kipp Delta Elementary Literacy Academy and Central High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
West Helena, AR public schools have an average math proficiency score of 11% (versus the Arkansas public school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 17% (versus the 40% statewide average). Schools in West Helena have an average ranking of 1/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Arkansas public schools.
Minority enrollment is 97% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Arkansas public school average of 43% (majority Black).
Best Public Schools in West Helena, AR (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Kipp Delta Elementary Literacy Academy
Charter School
(Math: 20-24% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
1020 Plaza St.
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 753-9800
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 753-9800
Gr: PK-5 | 463 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 96%
Rank: #22.
Central High School
(Math: 4% | Reading: 14%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
103 School Road
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 572-6744
West Helena, AR 72390
(870) 572-6744
Gr: 7-12 | 439 students Student-teacher ratio: 8:1 Minority enrollment: 99%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in West Helena, AR?
The top-ranked public schools in West Helena, AR include Kipp Delta Elementary Literacy Academy and Central High School.
How many public schools are located in West Helena?
2 public schools are located in West Helena.
What percentage of students in West Helena go to public school?
69% of all K-12 students in West Helena are educated in public schools (compared to the AR state average of 95%).
What is the racial composition of students in West Helena?
West Helena public schools minority enrollment is 97% of the student body (majority Black), which is more than the Arkansas public schools average of 43% (majority Black).
Recent Articles
When “Free Public School” Still Isn’t Free
Discover the hidden costs of public school in 2026, from supplies and fees to transportation, technology, and extracurricular expenses.
What a District Budget Cut Means for Your Child's School Experience
Learn how district budget cuts can affect class sizes, programs, staffing, transportation, and your child's daily school experience in 2026.
School Closure Risk: What Parents Should Check Before Moving
Learn how parents can assess school closure risk before buying or renting in a district, using enrollment, funding, and boundary data.
