2023 Best School Districts in Story County

• Gilbert, IA•

• School District

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  Rating 4.52 out of 5  25 reviews

Senior: In my time at Gilbert, I've engaged with many educators who have been important in my success but have also done very well providing guidance, mentorship, and encouragement. They have passion for teaching and genuine care for students' well-being. The sports programs at Gilbert have played a big role in shaping my character and valuable life skills. With many sports, I had the opportunity to play in multiple activities, learning the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. The coaches I have worked with have not only been skilled in their respective sports but have also been role models, inspiring me to push myself on and off the field. The school district offers many activities and clubs, providing ample opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and form lasting friendships. The inclusive and welcoming atmosphere fosters a strong sense of community, which has made my time at Gilbert Community School District truly memorable.... Read 25 reviews

• grade A+

• Total schools 4

• Students 1,589

• Ames, IA•

• School District

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  Rating 4.07 out of 5  27 reviews

Junior: As a high school student, the overall student atmosphere at Ames High is kind of low. There’s the patch of upperclassmen like indulge in school spirit, and there’s the incoming freshmen who despise schooling in general. I can’t help but recognize the administrators and staff members who go the extra mile to make school more fun for students and their efforts should not go unnoticed. Teachers on campus have innovated and created new ways of learning to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and have gone above and beyond in their fields. Meanwhile, students who recognize these efforts take the time to appreciate their teachers. It’s time we bring back Ames High spirit, and treat our school with the patriotism it rightfully earns and deserves.... Read 27 reviews

• grade A

• Total schools 8

• Students 4,709

• Huxley, IA•

• School District

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  Rating 4.31 out of 5  13 reviews

Senior: The Ballard Community School District is incredible. The staff helps the students academically and with extracurricular activities, which allows students to become well-rounded members of society. Students have countless opportunities to participate in a multitude of extracurricular activities. It is important for the school to engage all of its learners. Something I would like to see improved is the acceptance of everyone. Students need to be taught to respect everyone despite our differences. I will greatly miss the Ballard community when I leave for college.... Read 13 reviews

• grade A minus

• Total schools 4

• Students 1,850

• Story City, IA•

• School District

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  Rating 4 out of 5  17 reviews

Senior: I´ve had a great experience at Roland-Story High School. I moved here last year from the Chicago suburbs and was very welcomed by many students and staff. On my unofficial first day of enrollment, I was given a tour of the school by a group of seniors who introduced me to all of the teachers. The teachers at Roland-Story are some of the best I´ve ever had. One teacher, in particular, is amusing and always has a story to tell that he can relate to the lesson. The community involvement of the district is unique. Every year during the fall, different groups of students help the community by raking leaves and cleaning the yards of people who live in town. By far the best experience I´ve had at Roland-Story was building a Halloween activity called Haunted Highschool. During a three-week time span, my classmates and I used the shop to build ramps, frames, and other wood objects for a haunted house course. Overall, my experience at Roland-Story Highschool has been fun and beneficial.... Read 17 reviews

• grade A minus

• Total schools 3

• Students 1,080

• Nevada, IA•

• School District

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  Rating 4.5 out of 5  2 reviews

Senior: This school is a great school if you want blending learning and a good learning environment. The Nevada Community School district is welcoming to all students. The teachers here are amazing to work with and are very understanding of your personal lives. They also understand that things come up out of the blue that you cannot control. While you still have to make the work up, they give you time to to it. They know how busy teenagers can be.... Read 2 reviews

• grade B+

• Total schools 3

• Students 1,556

• Colo, IA•

• School District

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  Rating 3.78 out of 5  9 reviews

Senior: Colo-Nesco is a small close knit school which has given me the opportunity to flourish! I have been able to participate all athletics rather than choosing one sport and focusing on it. I have been able to acquire help in all areas needed.... Read 9 reviews

• grade B minus

• Total schools 2

• Students 406

• Maxwell, IA•

• School District

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  Rating 3 out of 5  5 reviews

Alum: My experience at Collins-Maxwell was great because I spent most of the time in clubs and activities as well as sports. The school has limited resources but to me that doesn't matter because I believe it's the people around you that make the most out of an experience. The people in Collins and Maxwell are good people and the teachers are really kind.... Read 5 reviews

• grade C+

• Total schools 2

• Students 390