Good schools are the foundation on which great communities thrive and prosper.

High-performing schools can help weave neighborhoods together, spur economic development and even attract professionals to a community, creating jobs. Schools can serve as social centers, bringing families together.

Most of all, good elementary and middle schools can give students a solid toehold in the education arena, setting them up for lifelong success.

To that end, we spotlight the three highest-rated elementary and middle schools in Billings, according to GreatSchools.org.

The GreatSchools rating is a tool for parents to compare schools based on test scores, Schools are ranked on a point system of one to 10, with 10 being the highest.

Billings is home to 22 elementary schools and four middle schools. Only three of those 26 schools earned a score of eight or higher.

The rating tool compares schools across the state, where the highest rated schools in the state are designated as “Above Average” and the lowest “Below Average," according to the website.

The tool is designed to be a starting point to help parents make baseline comparisons.

Below are the three highest-rated elementary and middle schools -- and a chance for you to vote for your favorite school.

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    1

    Arrowhead Elementary School

    Arrowhead Elementary School, which is located at 2510 38th St. W., earned nine points out of 10.

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    2

    Will James Middle School

    Will James Middle School, located at 1200 30th St. W., earned nine points out of 10.

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    3

    Poly Drive Elementary School

    Poly Drive Elementary School, located at 2410 Poly Drive, earned eight out of 10 points.

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