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2019 Best Public High Schools in North CarolinaAbout this List

The 2019 Best Public High Schools ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include state test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, and high school ratings. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 635
Best Schools
635 results

  1. Raleigh Charter High School

    • Public School
    • Raleigh, NC
    • 9-12
    • 168
    1 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Freshman: Raleigh Charter High School is really a great school. I started out not wanting to come here, but everyone was so welcoming! The older class students are extremely helpful, and the teachers are very qualified in the subject they teach. There is also a wide variety of clubs! You can even make your own, if you like.
    I am so thankful that I have gotten to experience such an amazing place. For anyone doubting going here or not, definitely try it out! I’m almost sure you won’t regret it.
    Read 168 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 561 Students
    • 13:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. The Early College at Guilford

    • Guilford County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 90
    2 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: I have greatly enjoyed my time at ECG, and I will surely be sad to leave it! ECG is a tight knit community of like-minded individuals invested in academics, and this creates a competitive yet quite engaging and encouraging environment for students. The academics are a great deal of work, but nothing that the average ECG student cannot handle. I have especially appreciated my experiences with freshman and sophomore English, History, and Calculus classes.
    Read 90 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 200 Students
    • 25:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. East Chapel Hill High School

    • Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 215
    3 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: East is pretty good. Most teachers really prepare students for college, future academics, etc. Most kids are very academically oriented, so there is less school spirit than average. People complain about the food but it's actually really good, with long lines at the beginning of each lunch and a variety to choose from everyday. The school has a very liberal atmosphere, and is pretty accepting also. THere are a variety of extracurriculars to choose from and many classes (ie. APs, PLTW, Biomed .etc) that many students can take/elect to start. Overall, it's a pretty nice school!
    Read 215 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,360 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Sponsored

    Our Lady of Mercy School

    • Private School
    • Potomac, MD
    • PK, K-8
    • 1

    High School Senior: The teachers allow for growth and nourishment.
    Read 1 Review

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 226 Students
    • 9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Green Hope High School

    • Wake County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 355
    4 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Freshman: This year I am a freshmen at Green Hope High school! The people are so friendly and are always at your best interest. The teachers there are amazing and even though I've only been attending the school for around a month, it feels like home! The principal keeps the school together in a friendly environment. Everyday day is a new adventure and the possibilities for growth are tremendous! I wake up everyday excited to go to school and learn something new. I really feel like I have learnt a lot every since my first day. Really looking forward to my whole high school experience!
    Read 355 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,637 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Carrboro High School

    • Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 179
    5 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Alum: Love the school! It was super inclusive due to the small size and most teachers really care about their students. Any bad teacher is quickly run off by angry students who make their voice heard. There are many opportunities given for students to achieve the future they want.

    However, the administration, specifically the principal, undermines some of the values of the school. She is not involved with the students and often ignores their opinion. Many teachers also, in secret, dislike her aggressive and off-putting style. Instead of fostering the amazing Carrboro community she is working to destroy it and has no trust in any students, despite most never having done anything wrong.
    Read 179 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 813 Students
    • 14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  7. Panther Creek High School

    • Wake County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 418
    6 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: My experience at Panther Creek High School was phenomenal; just like any rising freshmen, I had mixed feelings about high school in general. Would I make new friends? Would the classes be extremely difficult? Would it be safe for a reserved student like me? However, the diversity and the teachers made high school a very enjoyable experience that I will never forget. Most of the teachers are people that care to connect with their students outside the classroom, and all of them are very optimistic, which makes each day all the better. The diversity of the school too allowed me to be open to a variety of demographic and ideological groups; I now have a better understanding of what the outside world really looks like. One thing I would change is to have more committed counselors that want to connect with their students. Otherwise, I truly enjoyed my academic and social life at the high school!
    Read 418 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,791 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. William G. Enloe High School

    • Wake County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 604
    7 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Overall I would say I've received a great education here. The majority of the staff here are very helpful and understanding. Amazing arts program! The only thing I would like to see a change here at Enloe is the divide between the standard and AP/Honors students, we are supposed to be a magnet school, there should be an equal amount of opportunity for all students.
    Read 604 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,501 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Ardrey Kell High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 516
    8 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Ardrey Kell is a very good school. I love the people there. Their always so kind and helpful. They offer tons of extracurricular activities. Some examples are Track, DECA, and KEY club. It's a great environment to be in too. The classes are challenging but fun. However, they are strict. They have a lockout policy, which means that if you're late to a class you won't be allowed to go back in. Which if you think about it, it's technically not a bad thing. It's all just about safety. I had an amazing experience. If you enroll in this school, you won't be disappointed!
    Read 516 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,876 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. Chapel Hill High School

    • Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 199
    9 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: I enjoyed the math and science teachers. The sports are amazing! The english department could be improved especially reading and sentence structure for writing. Having a seminar course to illustrate varied college majors would be helpful. With all the varied professions in the triangle, parents allowing students to visit and learn about their place of work would help students decide on their college majors. The high school buildings need to be renovated but that is planned for next year!
    Read 199 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,463 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. Philip J. Weaver Education Center

    • Guilford County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 122
    10 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Alum: Weaver Academy is the most amazing school and I am so lucky to have attended it! My home school is Grimsley, but I was allowed to attend Weaver full-time as a CTE student. In my years at Weaver, I was able to take 14 computer science classes! I feel like I am very prepared to attend college as well as I have an insight into what I want to study at college. The classes were small and the teachers very knowledgeable! The teachers clearly enjoy what they teach as well as working with students. The principle runs a tight ship that allows students and teachers to blend well together.
    Read 122 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 254 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Marvin Ridge High School

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 341
    11 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Alum: I am a MR alum and I loved being a Maverick! The education I received was top notch but you have to be willing to challenge yourself in honors, AP, or even IB classes. The faculty and staff are some of the greatest people you will ever encounter. I played a varsity sport all four years I attended and it was a great experience. The whole school really has a way of making such a new school feel like they have roots and traditions. And most importantly- I was definitely college ready after graduating from Marvin!
    Read 341 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,630 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. Central Academy of Technology & Arts

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 95
    12 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Central Academy is an academically focused school. Our test scores are the highest in the county and we rank in the state. Teachers are supportive of the students and go out of their way to ensure student success. Central Academy is an academy based school, meaning that we are divided into groups based on our career path and take specialized classes in that area. There is medical, theatre arts, engineering, automotive technology and more. These classes have put our students ahead of others by giving them a foundational knowledge for their future career. Central Academy is an amazing school and is a stepping stone into college for students by helping them excel early in their career path. This school is diverse, culturally and through the division of students into academies. It is centered on helping students succeed and grow throughout highschool and into their college career.
    Read 95 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 793 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Weddington High School

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 324
    13 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Junior: Weddington High School excels in almost all areas. The administration--although it has changed hands many times during my period here--maintains a strong hand over the school, but still ensures that students are involved in decision making. Principle Dr. Jones treats his position similar to how you may view a presidency, guidance counselors and fellow assistant principles as the legislative and judicial branches, and the students play citizens. Guidance counselors have began to promise preparedness for our futures, and assistant principles are active in their roles by keeping the school running smoothly with their designated students. Although we do not elect our staff and administration, there is common support and pride in being a Warrior.
    Read 324 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,337 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  20. Wayne Early Middle College High School

    • Wayne County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 66
    14 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Niche User: Wayne Early Middle College High School is an excellent school for upcoming high school students to have a smooth transition into a college experience. Aside from a school sports team, students are provided with everything one could expect from a regular high school experience, as well as the opportunity to get their Associate's degree and get used to the qualitative expectations of your average college professor. The only drawbacks I'd consider the school to have would rely on the individual students themselves. Specifically, for students who aren't very determined to do well in their college courses, especially in their junior year, their GPA will suffer accordingly. Ultimately, what one aims for from their experience at WEMCHS will determine what they'll get out of it, both good and bad. The combination of taking all high school honors courses, obtaining a free Associate's degree, and having access to an abundance of four-year university knowledge should not be wasted.
    Read 66 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 239 Students
    • 20:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  21. Durham School of the Arts

    • Durham Public Schools, NC
    • 6-12
    • 211
    15 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Alum: Durham School of the Arts is arguably the best school in the Durham Public School District because of its dedication to academics, diversity, and college preparation. The academics are incredibly rigorous which prepares students for college in the sense that the first semesters of college are typically reported to be easier than a semester of AP classes at DSA. The campus itself is historic and has been a part of Durham's rich history and culture. It is surrounded by local restaurants and art venues which contributes to the student's dedication to the community and the art culture of downtown Durham. The school's enrollment is smaller than neighboring high schools which allows more one-on-one contact with professors and faculty members. Overall, there is not a better school for students who want to excel both in academic excellence and artistic ability.
    Read 211 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,639 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Early College of Forsyth

    • Forsyth County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 109
    16 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Early College of Forsyth has been an amazing school. I wouldn't change a thing. No, we did not get that "high school" experience, instead we got the "ECF" experience! The "ECF" experience is beyond amazing.
    Read 109 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 219 Students
    • 23:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Myers Park High School

    • Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 370
    17 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: I like the opportunities available to all students at Myers Park. Their motto is "make the park your own" and with everything they offer it's very easy to do that. Academically, you can push yourself however you see fit as they offer IB, AP, honors, and standard level classes. They also have lots of opportunities outside of academics. Myers Park allows you to customize your high school experience and are continually bettering the resources available to students. One thing I would like the change is the faculty and staff getting to know the students better. Being in a such a big school you have to seek out special attention from teachers and administration. Overall, I have had a good experience at Myers Park and I was able to meet so many different people and participate in lots of varying activities making my time at Myers Park very enjoyable.
    Read 370 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,859 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. The STEM Early College at N.C. A&T

    • Guilford County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 23
    18 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: The STEM Early College at N.C. A&T is a school that you will certainly need to be ready for! The advantages of going to an Early College is amazing with two years of college experience as well. Due to the limited number of students per grade, the bonds created between students are exceptional and lasting. The diversity in the school is amazing with a majority of the school being traditionally a minority. This school really feels like home and through thick and thin, you'll gain support.
    Read 23 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 190 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. Atkins Academic & Technology High School

    • Forsyth County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 59
    19 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Atkins High School is the best high school in the state of North Carolina. It is a STEM school; everything from engineering to biomedical tech is offered. Students at this school get internships easily because of the connections the staff have with professionals around the community. It is also located in Winston Salem, one of the cities doing the most innovative research in the health sciences and biotechnology. Atkins is not a school to attend if you plan to be mediocre and fulfill basic requirements of high school. The teachers at Atkins conduct how they grade, their assignments, and the atmosphere of their classes based on their college experience. Most students who graduated from Atkins and did well come back and say college is much easier than what they thought it would be. The principle works to eliminate any external distractions such as bullying and that is why we have SMOD. Our motto is "where its cool to be smart," and it definitely lives on!
    Read 59 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 718 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Cuthbertson High School

    • Union County Public Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 290
    20 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Alum: It was a very neat tidy and clean school and well prepares you for going to college! The facility is nice, the teachers are excellent and its overall was just a very nice school to be in. I really learned a lot in my four years at Cuthbertson that I definitely apply to college now. It was such a benefit and it helped me prepare and get ready for college. It is a very safe and comfortable environment to learn freely and express yourself accordingly. I would for sure recommend this school to anyone looking for a place to move and attend a new high school!
    Read 290 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,526 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Grimsley High School

    • Guilford County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 372
    21 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Sophomore: Not only do I think that Grimsley High is one of the best schools in the county, I believe students who go to this school will find many opportunities. There are so many course options; among them, my favorite is marching band/wind ensemble! The campus’s policies are pretty reasonable in my opinion though they could probably improve the bathrooms.
    Read 372 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,720 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  30. Community School of Davidson

    • Public School
    • Davidson, NC
    • K-12
    • 48
    22 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Great environment, teachers really care and want to see students be successful. Huge advantages over public schools!
    Read 48 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,342 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
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  32. Lake Norman Charter School

    • Public School
    • Huntersville, NC
    • 5-12
    • 217
    23 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: I loved Lake Norman Charter because it truly follows the school motto of "learn, lead, and serve." As a fifth grader I enjoyed our school beautification day that taught us the fun and importance of giving back at a young age. We prioritize service so much that 10 hours of community service is required each year to graduate. However, there are so many students that are in key club that exceed that expectation. The class sizes are small enough to develop a true relationship with each teacher. The teachers have always been generous with their time. Many are willing to stay after every single day just to make sure you understand. There are countless ways to lead at LNC. Each year more and more clubs are created that makes school more enjoyable and gives more opportunities to others to lead.
    Read 217 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,606 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  33. Thomas Jefferson Class Academy

    • Public School
    • Mooresboro, NC
    • K-12
    • 125
    24 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Our classical curriculum, based on the Trivium, which consists of Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric, imparts valuable and priceless knowledge to the students of Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy. This Trivium teaches the students how to think. While most schools teach the students how to memorize and regurgitate words, Thomas Jefferson teaches the students how to reason and speak intelligently. The school's mission is to cultivate thoughtful, articulate young adults, and it thoroughly completes this mission while still preparing us amply for college. If I had to change one thing about the school, it would be to increase the say that the students have in decision-making processes on campus. I started the TJCA Student Union this year to reach that goal, and we have made progress, but I hope it continues once I am gone, and that the administration does not forget how much a classical education means to a struggling teenager living in a confusing time.
    Read 125 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,301 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  34. Woods Charter School

    • Public School
    • Chapel Hill, NC
    • K-12
    • 28
    25 Best Public High Schools in North Carolina

    Senior: Woods Charter School is a very academically rigorous school. It requires a lot of dedication to homework and studying. However, it definitely pays off and in the end, prepares you for college level work. In terms of extracurricular activities, the academically focused activities are very successful and positive. Athletics and other activities are not as strong or well supported by the school community. In general, however, the sense of community is very strong and you end up graduating with a class where you know everyone.
    Read 28 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 503 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  35. Sponsored

    Norfolk Academy

    • Private School
    • Norfolk, VA
    • 1-12
    • 127

    Parent: Norfolk Academy provided an extraordinary educational journey for my two children, fueling their curiosity and inspiring them to explore new avenues that they might not have discovered without the incredible teachers and coaches at this school. My oldest child, who came in sixth grade, now studies engineering at an Ivy League university; he particularly loved the robotics team, as well as soccer, swimming, and crew teams. My youngest child, who is a senior at NA, came in first grade, and she has developed a passion for medicine and health, largely through the school's Global Health Fellows program and the Medical Scholars program.
    Read 127 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,203 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  36. Sponsored

    Winterville Charter Academy

    • Public School
    • Winterville, NC
    • K-5
    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 487 Students
    • 22:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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