Great teachers do more than educate — they inspire, guide and shape the future of their students. If you’re looking for the best public schools in Macomb County with top-rated teachers.
This list highlights schools where educators excel based on key factors like teacher quality, student performance on state assessments, salaries and more. See which Macomb County schools stand out for their exceptional teaching staff and overall Niche grade below.
Read more: Best School Districts in Macomb County
Richard J. Duncan Elementary School, Shelby Township (A-)
- Address: 14500 26 Mile Road, Shelby Township
- District: Utica Community Schools
- Why it stands out: Known for its strong commitment to early childhood education and student success.
Opened in 2002, this elementary school is known for its strong early childhood education programs and commitment to student success. Named after businessman and community leader Richard J. Duncan, the school honors his dedication to Utica Community Schools, including his role in raising over $250,000 for classroom programs and scholarships.
Great Oaks Elementary School, Chesterfield (A-)
- Address: 32900 24 Mile Road, Chesterfield Township
- District: Anchor Bay School District
- Why it stands out: A 2022-23 Reward School, Great Oaks Elementary is dedicated to academic excellence, student growth and community engagement.
Part of the Anchor Bay School District, Great Oaks Elementary fosters a supportive learning environment where students thrive academically and socially. The school emphasizes early childhood education and promotes a culture of respect, safety and collaboration. With strong parent involvement and a commitment to continuous improvement, Great Oaks provides students with a well-rounded foundation for success.
Floyd Ebeling Elementary School, Macomb (A-)
- Address: 15970 Haverhill, Macomb Township
- District: Utica Community Schools
- Why it stands out: Committed to excellence in education, Ebeling Elementary fosters a supportive and innovative learning environment that prioritizes student growth and achievement.
Part of Utica Community Schools, Ebeling Elementary provides a strong academic foundation while emphasizing collaboration, inclusivity and student well-being. The school is dedicated to reimagining education through high expectations, multiple pathways to success and a focus on innovation.
Will L. Lee School, Richmond (A-)
- Address: 68399 Forest Ave., Richmond
- School District: Richmond Community Schools
- Why It Stands Out: As a pivotal part of the Richmond educational fabric, Will L. Lee School is known for its commitment to literacy and early childhood education. With a robust program in social-emotional learning, students are equipped with skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Founded in an era defined by educational reforms, the school has maintained a tradition of inclusivity and high standards, adapting over the decades to best serve its student population.
Anchor Bay Middle School North, New Baltimore (B+)
- Address: 52805 Ashley Drive, New Baltimore
- School District: Anchor Bay School District
- Why It Stands Out: Anchor Bay Middle School North is part of a district that has been serving the community for many years. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum and provides students with opportunities to participate in various extracurricular activities.
The school was originally built as Anchor Bay High School in 1966. Eleven years later, a new Anchor Bay High School opened in 1977, and the original building became Anchor Bay Middle School North.
Messmore Elementary School, Sterling Heights (A)
- Address: 8742 Dill Drive, Sterling Heights
- School District: Utica Community Schools
- Why It Stands Out: Known for its commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, Messmore Elementary School prioritizes personalized learning experiences, ensuring each student reaches their full potential. A strong emphasis on STEM education and a vibrant arts program create a well-rounded curriculum that prepares students for future success.
Messmore has continually adapted to educational advancements while maintaining its foundational principles of community and excellence in teaching.
Malow Junior High School, Shelby Township (A-)
- Address: 6400 25 Mile Road, Shelby Township
- School District: Utica Community Schools
- Why It Stands Out: Malow Junior High School offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, a variety of extracurricular activities and a strong emphasis on character education.
Opened in the 1960s as part of a series of bond issues that also financed the building of other schools in Shelby Township. The school’s name represents that it was the first junior high school built in Shelby Township.
Greenwood Elementary School, Saint Clair Shores (B+)
- Address: 27900 Joan St., St. Clair Shores
- District: Lakeview Public Schools
- Why it stands out: The elementary school has a team of dedicated teachers and staff who provide high quality education.
Founded as part of Lakeview Public Schools, Greenwood has been a stable community presence. It operates on Lakeview’s long‑standing history (district formed first HS graduates in 1931; present campus active since mid‑1950s)
Princeton Elementary School, Saint Clair Shores (B+)
- Address: 20300 Statler St., St. Clair Shores
- District: Lakeview Public Schools
- Why it stands out: Strong academic achievements: 48% math proficiency; 56% reading proficiency – both notably above Michigan averages.
The school is committed to community outreach and giving back.
Crissman Elementary School, Shelby Township (A-)
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- Address: 53550 Wolf Drive, Shelby Township
- District: Utica Community Schools
- Why it stands out: Recognized as a Michigan Blue Ribbon Exemplary School.
Named after Howard G. Crissman, a Macomb County leader and school board president, the school opened on November 2, 1969 amid a broader district expansion funded by bonds.
This article was recently updated on June 22, 2025, by Metro Parent writer Sarah Knieff. The update included her fact-checking this list using the latest data from Niche to provide the latest information on Michigan’s best teachers. Questions? Please reach out to editor@metroparent.com.
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