Pender Elementary School

Pender Elementary School stands out as an exceptional educational institution serving 239 students in prekindergarten through sixth grade in rural Nebraska. With a remarkable MySchoolScout rating of 8.7 out of 10, the school ranks #9 among all 974 elementary schools statewide, placing it in the 99th percentile for academic excellence. The school's academic performance is truly impressive, with 87% of students achieving proficiency or above in mathematics and 72% meeting or exceeding standards in English Language Arts and reading.

These strong outcomes reflect the dedicated work of 20 full-time equivalent teachers who maintain an excellent student-teacher ratio of 11.9:1, allowing for more individualized attention and support. Located on Whitney Street in Thurston County, Pender Elementary serves a stable community where the median household income is $80,078 and only 4.8% of families live below the poverty line. The area's median home value of $163,200 reflects a community invested in long-term residency, while 30% of adults hold bachelor's degrees or higher, demonstrating a commitment to education.

This small-town elementary school combines the advantages of rural community values with outstanding academic achievement, creating an environment where students can thrive in Nebraska's agricultural heartland.

Located in a rural area, Pender Elementary School may involve longer commutes for some families. Rural schools often serve as community anchors and may have smaller class sizes, but parents should consider transportation logistics, after-school program availability, and access to specialized services.