2023 Best Magnet Schools in the Charlotte Area

• Charlotte, NC•

• Public School•

• K-8

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  15 reviews

Parent: Having been at the school since its inception and assisting in many ways from start-up fundraising, marketing, assisting in the classroom and coaching, I can tell you that the Scholars’ Academy is a gifted school like no other. With my three children attending (one having had AWEFUL experiences in public school before being identified as twice gifted), they were able to freely explore their intellectual abilities and create solid lifelong friendships. All organizations have growing pains and our school may not be perfect for your student… that is an opportunity for the parent to find the right place where their student flourishes! The Scholars’ Academy lets kids be kids, have fun and learn at their speed. Being at SA is like a trip to the United Nations of Children. Our diversity is broad. Moving into high school is always an adjustment, but for 9 years my children were able to feel good in their skin and have fun learning!... Read 15 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 390

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Gaston County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  237 reviews

Sophomore: I love being a part of the Rams family. HST has a wide range of sports, clubs, and social outings. They give every opportunity for students to get involved on and off campus. The staff is wonderful, every teacher I’ve had goes to great lengths to make sure the whole class can understand and apply the concepts that they teach. They usually offer after/before school tutoring and plenty of extra credit opportunities. Everything about my experience at Highland Tech has been wonderful. Currently, I’m a part of 7 extracurriculars and loving every single one. The classes are definitely more challenging, and typically have a heavier work load, so if you have difficulty with time management, HST may not be for you. It would also be beneficial to you to get involved. I didn’t realize what a difference it would make in my freshman year. Going to HST rather than my feeder school was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my academic career, and I recommend you do the same. Go Rams!... Read 237 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 555

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Union County Public Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  169 reviews

Senior: I’ve attended CATA for 3 years now and I am currently a senior. Everything about this school is great. Everyone feels welcome and there’s one thing this school has that others don’t. A chance to peruse specific career oriented class such as engineering, auto tech, computer science, and medical. All of which prepare you for a future in each career path. The teachers are great as well and are some of the nicest teachers I’ve ever met. Another thing CATA has those most public don’t have is zero bullies. In all my time at CATA I’ve never seen any sign of bullying unlike other public schools. This is what makes this school great!... Read 169 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 843

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  25 reviews

Senior: I want to start off by saying that Charlotte Engineering Early College, also known as CEEC, has given me an amazing opportunity that I will forever cherish. The teachers and faculty are all so invested in the students. CEEC has allowed many students, such as myself, to earn various kinds of college credits through UNC Charlotte. That being said, I would love for the CEEC teachers to have a more thorough conversation about potential pathways. One such example would be informing students that many engineering classes will not be offered until they actually enroll in UNC Charlotte. Being more realistic with students would help them immensely in the long run. Even though CEEC could better prepare students, the opportunity handed to them is such a blessing. Students who go there with the intention to succeed will be given such an opportunity. CEEC is not your typical high school experience, but it offers an opportunity like no other.... Read 25 reviews

• grade A

• Students 318

• Student-teacher ratio 21:1

• Cabarrus County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  99 reviews

Junior: I had applied and made the decision to come to Early College due to the education opportunities that came with it. No doubt, having the opportunity to achieve an associate degree by the time I graduate high school is phenomenal. On the down side, I had to work through the most academic-related stress I have ever been through (and hopefully ever will). I endured dark thoughts and poor mental health for the sake of my school. In turn, I received outstanding opportunities and a lack of student loans. Now that I moved past my sophomore year (the most challenging bit), I think that every tear, every ounce of frustration I had was completely worth it. Early College is not for everybody but if you are up for the challenge, I urge anyone to give it their best shot!... Read 99 reviews

• grade A

• Students 239

• Student-teacher ratio 27:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  2 reviews

Parent: I've had three kids attend Irwin. We love this school. There are great opportunities for the children and the classrooms are amazing. Even though it is an older building, there are many upgrades including a renovated (in the 90's - but the building itself is much, much older) interior and filtered water bottle filling stations. We've had much success with the teachers and admin at this school. I can't imagine sending my kids elsewhere. Next year will be my youngest child's last year at Irwin and I'll be sad to see him move on.... Read 2 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 373

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• PK, K-6

• •
  Rating 4.2 out of 5  5 reviews

Alum: I attended Highland MIll Montessori from 2006-12. I really enjoyed my time there. Everybody was cool and knew each other well and I got a lot of one on one time with my teachers. Of course being in elementary school your going to run across other students who you don't really get along with, but other than that everything was fine. Now, everyone has a different experience and from what I have heard the school has changed drastically. Don't base your decision off of my words though because, like I said, things have changed. They got a new principle, a lot of new teachers, it may not be the same experience for you (or your child) as it was for me. I would suggest that you just do your research, attend as many open houses or family orientations as you can and ASK QUESTIONS.... Read 5 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 313

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 11-12

• •
  Rating 4.55 out of 5  42 reviews

Junior: Levine Middle College High School has provided me the advantage of receiving a high-leveled education in a short amount of time. I have the opportunity of getting a head start with my desired major while obtaining access to several resources. The teachers and staff create a very welcoming environment that makes me excited to learn on a daily basis. This school provides a successful plan for college readiness by giving students the opportunity of taking classes at a community college. Students receive an early experience of college classes while they are able to obtain college credits that are transferrable to other colleges and universities in North Carolina. I have personally enjoyed my time at Levine Middle College High School by becoming involved in school clubs and activities that are hosted by other students. The teachers, staff, and administration are easily accessible and make a great effort in assisting each and every student.... Read 42 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 241

• Student-teacher ratio 40:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• K-8

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  14 reviews

Parent: Love this school and staff! Dedicated Principal who takes a proactive approach. our daughters have blossomed and grown in their language learning skills. My older daughter now speaks, reads and writes French fluently and we can already see this starting to take shape with our younger daughter in the German Language Immersion program.... Read 14 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,296

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Gaston County Schools, NC•

• K-5

• grade A minus

• Students 308

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 4.37 out of 5  19 reviews

Parent: Our academically able child often struggles to make good choices. The staff at Piedmont sees this as the developmental hurdle it is, and fully support AND challenge her to use her energies for the greater good, rather than the personal, and maybe entitled, satisfaction many teens seek. She is held accountable for her work, AND nurtured. Teachers learned her style and passed their knowledge of her needs, desires, and challenges on to the next year’s team. The staff never waiver in treating her with respect, while making clear respect is expected in return. EVERY child is held to the highest expectations, academically, and in community. I firmly believe their is no better middle school in the state. We are so grateful to this extraordinary team.... Read 19 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,123

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 11-12

• •
  Rating 4.82 out of 5  38 reviews

Senior: Harper is an amazing school for ambitious and independent students looking to learn about and advance in their desired careers, while still attending high school. Most of the students are amazing and friendly, and the teachers I've had are great and understanding! The only complaint I have is that administration can be slow to reply to emails. The school’s location is a small part of the Harper Campus, but it's very cozy, clean, and welcoming. I have matured a lot since enrolling there, and I've sort of been forced to become more responsible. I'm very grateful for this, and I think it's great to be exposed to college material/workload and learn to adapt to a fast-paced environment. I have a variety of classes to choose from, and a lot more freedom compared to a traditional high school. I appreciate this since it has helped guide me towards my dream career. If you want a transformative experience, I encourage you to apply to Harper.... Read 38 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 174

• Student-teacher ratio 44:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• PK, K-6

• grade A minus

• Students 515

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• PK, K-6

• grade A minus

• Students 316

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• K-5

• grade A minus

• Students 638

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Cabarrus County Schools, NC•

• K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Alum: Coltrane-Webb was an amazing school. The AIG and STEM programs are amazing. The teachers have to work way too hard, and try to be just as good as the rest of the schools in the district without much funding. The administration tries, but could do better. There are giant fences around the school, for safety reasons, and transport the students safely to hub stops around the county.... Read 1 review

• grade A minus

• Students 382

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Lancaster County School District, SC•

• 6-8

• •
  Rating 3.5 out of 5  4 reviews

Freshman: As a former student at Indian land middle, I can attest that the learning environment is adequate. The teachers I was gifted with having for my eighth grade year are people who have influenced my life, and helped me flourish. As a student with adhd, and a learning disability, I definitely can say that the resources I needed to have in order to learn were provided.... Read 4 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,279

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• PK, K-6

• grade B+

• Students 208

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• K-8

• grade B+

• Students 814

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  226 reviews

Senior: The only thing about Northwest School of the Arts that made my experience somewhat worth the horrifying stress was the people I met. Not even speaking on race but just the difference in all personalities that don't normally go together but under tense circumstances, we stand together BECAUSE of our differences. I've grown to love and respect the affluent gender identifications and roles multiplied times 10 because of the wonderful people I've met and will remember forever. I've not been a fan of every teacher but the ones I am, have taught me so much more beyond book smarts. I have life lessons and adult support to last me 9 lives. I can't account for how much I've learned intellectually considering my recall isn't good at all but I've got the mental capacity to handle just about anything life throws my way. And for that, my Northwest Family will always be remembered.... Read 226 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,083

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Rock Hill Schools, SC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  442 reviews

Junior: I love north western as a student there I know for a fact their student’s safety is their top priority. And they have amazing staff northwestern is always looking for ways to improve their school and staff members.our academics are great and we barely have any students failing due to our amazing teachers. The teachers and students bond so well that when the child graduates it becomes difficult for them to leave such an amazing place. Northwestern also has many electives to help get ready for any career in mind. We are teamed up with atc where they give you lots of choices between introduction to teaching, welding, calinary and many more. Also there are many other things for students to do we have language classes and theatre for all the actors out there and many other classes our teachers and students work so hard as a collective to make northwestern grow we try our best to all make our school amazing and to make amazing memories. The teachers have never cared so much about the stud... Read 442 reviews

• grade B

• Students 1,738

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Rock Hill Schools, SC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  416 reviews

Junior: I have had an EXCELLENT 3 years at Rock Hill High School RHHS)! I have been able to build lasting relationships with my peers and teachers. RHHS has allowed me to excel as a percussionist with the Marching, concert, and indoor band programs. I am an IB student and although these courses are challenging, my teachers are very supportive.... Read 416 reviews

• grade B

• Students 1,885

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 11-12

• •
  Rating 4.91 out of 5  11 reviews

Senior: Merancas Middle College High is a wonderful school with a great campus. It shares a campus with CPCC as it is middle college. The opportunity to take college classes an graduate with an associates has been invaluable for me and my family. I made so many friends here, all of whom plan to keep in touch as we go our separate ways for college and other plans after we graduate. I met my boyfriend at this school, and we started a Gay Straight Alliance club, which is starting to get off it's feet. The community and support at the school is strong, everyone here really cares about everyone else, and everyone is really supportive; The faculty are wonderful people, all of whom work extra hard to make sure there is a lasting impact on students lives, and to help really build community and connection between the students and faculty of the school. AS excited as I am to go to college, I know I'm going to miss Merancas.... Read 11 reviews

• grade B

• Students 154

• Student-teacher ratio 51:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• K-5

• •
  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Parent: My daughter LOVES DJV! She is challenged, the lessons are engaging, the teacheres are creative in how they instruct. The administration is nothing short of amazing! There is a tagible family atmosphere here. I love how diverse the school is. My daughter is always excited to go to school. I am very pleased with the responsiveness of the teachers, staff and administration. It truly is a wonderful environment for children to learn and grow!... Read 1 review

• grade B

• Students 371

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  44 reviews

Senior: My four years in Hawthorne have been the best of my life. I've had the pleasure of working with a number of outstanding teachers. The school's name says it all: it's a health science school, so if you're interested in medicine, here is the place to go. Classes are smaller than at a typical high school. Instead of athletics, medical programs and college credit classes are offered. I've made some wonderful friends, and I'm excited to announce that I'll be graduating in 2022.... Read 44 reviews

• grade B

• Students 312

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1