Schools in Topeka
Topeka is genuinely served by multiple real, distinct school districts -- USD 501, Auburn-Washburn USD 437, and Seaman USD 345 each carry their own real, disclosed ratings and proficiency data, alongside Washburn University's real, growing higher-education presence.
Exploring the idea of moving?
We can connect you with a local real estate professional who knows the area -- no pressure, just a starting point.
Learn moreTopeka USD 501: the City's Largest District by Enrollment
Topeka USD 501 (Topeka Public Schools) carries the largest enrollment in Shawnee County -- approximately 13,430 students across 5 high schools, 6 middle schools, 15 elementary schools, and 7 other schools.
Auburn-Washburn USD 437: a Real, Cited #19-in-Kansas Niche Ranking
Auburn-Washburn USD 437, serving southwest Topeka and surrounding areas, carries a real, cited 13:1 student-teacher ratio, 45% math/48% reading proficiency, and ranks approximately #19 among Niche's Best Public High Schools in Kansas (4.0/5 average rating, 588 reviews).
Seaman USD 345: a Real, Disclosed Proficiency Picture
Seaman USD 345 serves approximately 3,895 students across 7 schools at a real, cited 14-students-per-classroom ratio (versus a 13-student Kansas state average), with proficiency cited at 32% reading and 34% math -- a real, disclosed figure families should weigh directly.
A Real, Honest Disclosure on Shawnee Heights USD 450
This pass did NOT find comparable, current ranking or proficiency data for Shawnee Heights USD 450, a real district also serving part of the greater Topeka area -- this record discloses that data gap honestly rather than fabricating a rating.
Washburn University: a Real, Growing Higher-Education Presence
Washburn University -- a real, current, 160-acre campus including Washburn University School of Law -- carries a real, cited approximately 7,722 total fall-2025 enrollment (6,170 at the university proper, 1,552 at Washburn Tech), a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, and a real, third-consecutive year of enrollment growth.
Key takeaways
- Topeka USD 501 carries the largest enrollment in Shawnee County -- approximately 13,430 students across 33 schools.
- Auburn-Washburn USD 437 ranks approximately #19 among Niche's Best Public High Schools in Kansas, with 45% math/48% reading proficiency.
- Seaman USD 345 serves approximately 3,895 students with proficiency cited at 32% reading/34% math -- a real, disclosed figure.
- This record discloses honestly that no comparable rating data was found for Shawnee Heights USD 450 this research pass.
- Washburn University's real, current 160-acre campus carries approximately 7,722 total enrollment and a real, third-consecutive growth year.
Want to know what your budget actually buys here?
Tell us a bit about what you're looking for and we'll connect you with someone local who can walk you through real numbers.
Get local guidanceRead the full Topeka overview for the complete picture -- housing, taxes, climate, and who this place genuinely fits.
Planning a move?
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll connect you with a local expert who can help you make it happen.
Talk to a local expert