The Best School Districts Near OKC for Renters with Kids
School Districts - OKC Area
Finding that perfect place to call home can be a juggling act, especially for families with kids. You know, one of the biggest things on their minds is the quality of the local school district. It really shapes a kid's education, social skills, and overall experience. So, in this post, we’re diving into the best school districts for those looking at rentals in the Oklahoma City area. We'll look at what makes each district special and what they have to offer.
Understanding the Data
Refer to this section for insights provided by the various academic metrics used throughout this article:
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Indicates the level of individual attention students receive from teachers.
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Reflects overall knowledge retention and the emphasis on college and test preparation.
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Shows the percentage of students meeting or exceeding expected competence levels, indicating strong instruction in these subjects.
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Suggest the district’s investment in student success by hiring and retaining quality educators, although it should be considered alongside other factors such as the size of the district.
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Demonstrates the district’s financial investment in each student, but should be evaluated with context, such as the size and income level of the district.
National and Oklahoma
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of Oklahoma City schools, let’s take a peek at some national and state averages. On a national scale, the average student-teacher ratio sits at about 15:1, with high school graduation rates around 85%. National composite ACT scores are usually about 19. When it comes to math and reading proficiency, we're looking at averages of 38% and 47%, respectively. Considering teachers, they make an average of $58,950 a year, and schools typically spend around $13,239 per student.
In Oklahoma, though, things look a bit different. Here, the student-teacher ratio is 17:1. The graduation rate? Roughly 80%, and the average ACT score is 18. Math proficiency lags at 25%, and reading's not much better at 27%. Oklahoma teachers earn about $42,124 annually, and schools spend an average of $12,967 per student.
Here’s a quick comparison:
National Average - Oklahoma Average
Math Proficiency
38% - 25%
Reading Proficiency
47% - 27%
Student-Teacher Ratio
15:1 - 17:1
Graduation Rate
85% - 80%
ACT Score
19 - 18
Teacher Salary
$58,950/year - $42,124/year
Expense per Student
$13,239 - $12,967
Having an idea of national and state averages provides a comparison when you start to look at specific school districts.
Oklahoma City Public Schools
Now, let’s talk about Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS). It’s the biggest district in the state, serving 33,244 students across 59 schools. But it’s not all smooth sailing; they face some hurdles with academic performance, averaging math and reading proficiency rates of just 10% and 12%. They sit at a student-teacher ratio of 15:1, which is decent, but the graduation rate is a bit low at 71%.
Programs and initiatives within OKCPS include:
ReadOKC Little Libraries: In partnership with the OKCPS Foundation and OKC Thunder, libraries have been set up across the city for students. The goal? To boost literacy and get people in the community more involved.
International Baccalaureate Program
Teacher Pipeline Programs: OKCPS has got some great initiatives aimed at helping bilingual paraprofessionals and those from diverse backgrounds become certified teachers. It’s all about building a teaching workforce that reflects the community.
If you’re thinking about renting in the area, the average rent around the Oklahoma City School District is about $1,080 a month, which is pretty reasonable for families. The district really invests in its students, with an expenditure of $12,179 per student. As for teachers, they earn an average salary of $49,103 a year, showing that the district is trying to bring in and keep quality educators.
And don't worry about getting to school; transportation services are solid, making sure kids have a safe way to travel.
Other Public School Districts
There are quite a few other districts around Oklahoma City that might be worth checking out if you’re renting with kids. These places often shine when it comes to academic performance and have more specialized programs.
And while we’re focusing on public schools here, hang tight. There’s some info about alternative schooling options coming up at the end.
Edmond Public Schools
So, Edmond Public Schools—it's highly regarded for its solid academic standards and a nurturing environment. With about 25,000 students, the district has a student-teacher ratio that sits at 19:1. And get this: they have a graduation rate of 93% and an average ACT score of 23. If you’re looking to rent around here, expect to pay around $1,310 a month.
Programs and initiatives in Edmond include:
Early College Program: A fantastic opportunity for high school students to snag some college credits while still in school! It’s like getting a jumpstart on their higher ed journey.
Mercy Hospital Partnership: provides a program called Call SAM. It’s a 24-hour helpline for students and families dealing with anxiety, depression, drug issues, or even thoughts of suicide. Really important resource.
Edmond Recreation and Aquatic Center: In collaboration with the YMCA and the City of Edmond, this state-of-the-art facility offers swimming and all sorts of recreational fun for students.
Teachers in Edmond earn on average about $48,391 a year, and the district spends roughly $8,022 per student.
Mustang Public Schools
Now, Mustang Public Schools serves around 12,000 students, and their student-teacher ratio is slightly better at 17:1. They have a graduation rate of 91%, and the average ACT score comes in at 21. If you’re considering renting in Mustang, keep in mind the average monthly rent is about $1,100.
Unique Programs and Initiatives:
Adventure Club: a program all about extended learning, offering field trips and educational activities that are both fun and enriching.
CommUNITY Education: This program offers affordable classes for all ages! It’s designed to help everyone in the community get involved and learn something new, whether it’s educational or just for fun.
School Resource Officers: Mustang Public Schools partnered with local law enforcement to ensure safety. They have School Resource Officers posted at high schools and middle schools.
Teachers here earn about $47,509 a year, and the district spends around $7,640 per student.
Yukon Public Schools
Yukon Public Schools is another great option, catering to about 8,800 students with a student-teacher ratio similar to Edmond at 19:1. They also have a graduation rate of 91%, and their average ACT score is 21. Rent in Yukon is a bit lower, averaging around $1,080 per month.
Programs and initiatives in Yukon include:
Community Engagement: Yukon Community Engagement (YCE) is doing great work to create solid relationships between families and schools. They support families through various programs and fun events like The Breakfast, Teacher of the Year awards, and retirement celebrations.
Various summer camps focused on STEM—think science, technology, engineering, and math. They really get kids excited about these subjects!
YPS College & Career Center: Yukon Public Schools teamed up with Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) to launch the YPS College & Career Center. This place offers concurrent programs and degrees in cool fields like nursing, education, and aerospace. It’s all about giving students better chances at work and school.
Teachers in Yukon make an average of $51,925 a year, with the district spending roughly $8,214 per student.
Deer Creek Public Schools
Now, let’s talk about Deer Creek Public Schools. They serve 7,636 students, maintaining a 19:1 student-teacher ratio. This district has a pretty impressive graduation rate of 97% and an average ACT score of 23. Rent prices in Deer Creek are around $1,075 per month.
Programs and initiatives in Deer Creek include:
Pre-K Program: Deer Creek offers a Pre-K Program that’s free for 4-year-olds, if there’s space available.
Career Fair: Deer Creek hosts a career fair to meet prospective employees interested in joining the district. It’s a great way for students to meet potential employers and explore different career paths, helping them figure out what they want to do in the future.
Recognized special education services, providing tailored support for students who need it.
Teachers here earn an average salary of $44,710 annually, and the district's spending per student is about $7,168.
Piedmont Public Schools
Next, we have Piedmont Public Schools, serving about 2,800 students with a slightly higher student-teacher ratio of 20:1. Their graduation rate is impressive, sitting at 95%, and the average ACT score is 22. Rent prices in Piedmont are on the higher side, averaging $1,370 a month.
Programs and initiatives in Piedmont include:
Student Investment Plan: The district had a 2024 Student Investment Plan in place. It’s set to fund new elementary and intermediate schools, saferooms that double as classrooms, and even improvements for the Pride of Piedmont band program. Lots of projects that will impact all students.
Summer programs are in place to keep kids engaged and learning during those long break days.
Child Nutrition Program: Piedmont Public Schools has a solid Child Nutrition Program. They serve healthy meals and snacks to students all year long.
Teachers in Piedmont earn about $46,692 a year, with the district spending around $6,618 per student.
Moore Public Schools
Moore Public Schools is looking after about 25,000 students. Making it one the largest district surveyed here, besides OKCPS. They’ve got a student-teacher ratio sitting at around 18:1. Pretty decent, right? The graduation rate here is quite impressive, hitting 90%, and the average ACT score is about 22. Now, if you're thinking about moving there, keep in mind that rent prices average at $1,276 monthly.
Programs and initiatives in Moore include:
Project GRIT: an exciting initiative backed by a hefty $5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education. It’s all about boosting mental health support in schools by increasing the number of mental health professionals in the district. Educators are even able to work on their counseling and LPC licensure programs while staying in their current roles.
Safety Town Children's Center: They’ve partnered with the Moore Police Department to create a center in Parmele Park that will provide outreach and resources for child safety and well-being in the community.
Moore Love Campaign: Students from Moore, Westmoore, and Southmoore High Schools are leading fundraising efforts to support their schools and help junior high and elementary schools brainstorm fundraising ideas. They’re also supporting local nonprofits like the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and Moore Faith Medical Center.
As for the teachers, they earn an average salary of $49,822 a year, while the district spends roughly $9,177 per student.
Norman Public Schools
Finally, let’s chat about Norman Public Schools. They’re serving about 16,000 students, with a slightly better student-teacher ratio of 17:1. The graduation rate here is at 79%, and the average ACT score is a tad higher at 22. Rent in Norman is a bit more wallet-friendly, averaging around $1,060 per month.
Programs and initiatives in Norman include:
STEM Education: Norman Public Schools is really putting a spotlight on STEM education, offering various programs to get students engaged in these crucial fields.
They also have summer camps that cover everything from robotics to arts and environmental science. There’s something for everyone!
Family Engagement: Norman Public Schools is all in when it comes to family engagement. They’re committed to building strong connections between families, schools, and the community. It’s all about working together for a brighter future!
Teachers in Norman pull in about $48,955 a year, and the district spends an average of $9,238 per student.
Top 5 School Districts in the OKC Area
After looking into various factors—like how well students perform academically, graduation rates, student-teacher ratios, ACT scores, teacher salaries, and spending per student—we’ve come up with a list of the top 5 school districts in the Oklahoma City area, especially for renters with kids:
Edmond Public Schools
Moore Public Schools
Deer Creek Public Schools
Norman Public Schools
Mustang Public Schools
Summary and Conclusions
Choosing the right school district is a big deal for renters with children. It not only can impact how well kids do in school but also how happy the whole family is. Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas have a mix of options, each with its own strengths and programs aimed at supporting both students and families. If you keep in mind factors like academic performance, extracurricular programs, and commitment to success, you’ll surely find a district that fits your family’s needs. Our top picks—Edmond, Moore, Deer Creek, Norman, and Mustang—really shine when it comes to dedication to excellence and creating supportive environments. They’re pretty much the go-to choices for renters with kids!
Map of school districts in OKC Area
Further Information
Popular Private and Charter Schools in or Around OKC
Now, if you’re also considering private or charter schools, Oklahoma City has some great options to cater to different educational needs. Casady School is a well-respected private K-12 institution known for its tough academics and a well-rounded approach to education, serving around 990 students with a student-teacher ratio of 8:1. Then there's Heritage Hall, another top private school that offers loads of extracurricular activities, with about 890 students and a ratio of 9:1.
On the charter school side, Harding Charter Preparatory High School really stands out with its college prep focus, enrolling around 563 students and keeping a student-teacher ratio of 18:1. And let’s not forget about John W. Rex Charter Elementary School, which caters to PK-8 students, has a ratio of 16:1, and offers some unique opportunities thanks to its downtown location.
