Columbus, Ohio boasts a variety of elementary schools with different strengths—academic performance, student support, extracurriculars, teacher quality, and community involvement. For parents, choosing the right elementary school means considering not just test scores, but also environment, class size, and the school’s approach to helping all children succeed. Here are 10 of the best elementary schools in Columbus, each having unique strengths and things that make them stand out. You can explore each via the link for more details.
1. Wyandot Elementary School
Wyandot Elementary, located in the Dublin City School District, regularly appears at the very top of rankings in the Columbus area due to its high state test scores and favorable student-teacher ratio (about 18:1).
The school offers rigorous academics along with supportive teachers who emphasize foundational literacy and math skills. Parents often praise its strong sense of community and its ability to maintain excellence across all grade levels (K-5). If you’re looking for a school that combines high achievement and supportive culture, Wyandot is often a top pick. Learn more here
2. Deer Run Elementary School
Deer Run Elementary, also part of Dublin City Schools, stands out for its dedication to strong student performance and well-rounded learning. With a similar student-teacher ratio to top Dublin schools, Deer Run emphasizes hands-on learning, small class interaction, and a curriculum balanced between academics and enrichment.
Many families appreciate the school’s safety, organization, and parent involvement. If nurturing a child’s skills in a focused environment with consistent academic growth matters to you, Deer Run is a solid choice among Columbus area schools. Explore Deer Run Elementary here
3. Glacier Ridge Elementary School
Glacier Ridge Elementary, in Dublin City, earns high marks for its academic rigor, clean and well-maintained facilities, and strong teacher review ratings. The school features a supportive staff that helps students reach high proficiency in core subjects, particularly in reading and mathematics.
Parents highlight the school’s emphasis on both academic challenge and student well-being. It’s often selected by families who want excellence plus a caring environment. For those wanting a school where academics and student support go hand in hand, Glacier Ridge often comes up among the best. Check Glacier Ridge here
4. Mary Emma Bailey Elementary School
Mary Emma Bailey Elementary is well regarded in the Columbus metro region for its strong academic outcomes and engaged school community. Its teachers emphasize foundational skills while also integrating enrichment activities—arts, science, and collaborative learning.
The school’s student-teacher ratio allows for more personalized attention, and parents often report good communication from staff. If you’re looking for a school with high expectations but also kindness and support, Mary Emma Bailey often ranks among the top elementary schools in the area. Discover Mary Emma Bailey here
5. Scottish Corners Elementary School
Scottish Corners Elementary, part of Dublin City Schools, consistently performs well in local and state assessments. The school is praised for its balance of strong academics and extracurricular opportunities, including arts and physical education.
Parents often note good leadership, a caring staff, and an environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests. For families wanting a school that stresses both academic excellence and well-rounded development, Scottish Corners is frequently recommended. Learn more here
6. Eli Pinney Elementary School
Eli Pinney Elementary has earned positive feedback for its engaging learning environment, clear academic standards, and supportive teachers. The school places a strong emphasis on developing foundational skills in literacy and mathematics, with interventions in place to help students who need extra support.
Many families like the welcoming atmosphere and the feedback loop between teachers and parents. If your priority is strong core academics paired with community feel, Eli Pinney Elementary often features among the best choices in Columbus. Check Eli Pinney Elementary here
7. Abraham Depp Elementary School
Abraham Depp Elementary in Dublin is known for academic consistency, supportive teaching, and a robust curriculum that includes enrichment and hands-on projects. The school’s performance in state testing is strong, and its student-teacher ratio helps ensure individual attention.
Parents speak well of the school’s organization, clarity of communication, and supportive learning spaces. For families who value steady academic growth, good support for learners, and a sense of community, Abraham Depp often ranks high among Columbus area elementary schools. Discover Abraham Depp here
8. Shale Meadows Elementary School
Shale Meadows Elementary is another standout school in the Olentangy district near Columbus, highly rated for its academic outcomes and safe learning environment. Students benefit from excellent teaching staff, strong parental involvement, and programs that support enrichment beyond core academics.
Many parents mention its strong test scores, especially in reading and math, and the school’s ability to maintain high standards. For families looking for a well-rounded education with strong academic results, Shale Meadows is often a preferred option. Learn more about Shale Meadows here
9. New Albany Primary School
New Albany Primary School serves younger grades and is known for strong early learning foundations, with high proficiency in reading and math for its age group. The school emphasizes kindergarten through early grade intervention, small class sizes, and enrichment to help students build confidence.
Parents appreciate that the school takes time to help students adjust socially and academically. If you want a school that helps children start strong and builds confidence in early grades, New Albany Primary often comes up among the top recommendations. Explore New Albany Primary here
10. Oak Creek Elementary School
Oak Creek Elementary is recognized for its excellent learning outcomes, strong leadership, and comprehensive support systems for students. It offers academic rigor and chances for enrichment, such as arts, technology, or after-school programs.
Parents often mention its cleanliness, sense of safety, and proactive communication between school and families. For those who want a school that combines strong academics with supportive and caring culture, Oak Creek Elementary is frequently listed among Columbus’s best. Check Oak Creek Elementary here
Conclusion
Columbus offers many top-tier elementary schools, especially in districts like Dublin and Olentangy, where academic excellence, small class sizes, and enriching programs are common. Schools like Wyandot, Deer Run, Glacier Ridge, and Oak Creek frequently stand out. When choosing a school, consider core academics, school culture, teacher support, proximity, and how well the school meets your child’s unique needs. Visiting schools and talking with parents can help you find the perfect fit.
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FAQs:
Yes. Many top schools are in nearby suburban districts like Dublin (e.g. Glacier Ridge, Deer Run) and Olentangy (e.g. Shale Meadows, Oak Creek).
Important factors include academic proficiency (reading & math scores), student-teacher ratio, enrichment and extracurricular offerings, school safety and culture, and how well the school supports students who need extra help.
Some private schools (e.g. Columbus School for Girls, The Columbus Academy) are highly rated for academics, smaller class sizes, and specialized programs; however, many public schools in strong districts also perform at very high levels.
