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2020 Best School Districts in North CarolinaAbout this List

The 2020 Best School Districts 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, public school district ratings, and more. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 116
Best Districts
116 results

  1. Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools

    • School District
    • Chapel Hill, NC
    • 41 reviews
    #1 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: They are very prideful in their education! They also have a lot of cultural activities, including many opportunities for students to travel abroad.
    Read 41 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 20 Total Schools
    • 12,115 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Polk County Schools

    • School District
    • Columbus, NC
    • 6 reviews
    #2 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: Polk County Schools is an amazing place for students to learn what the want to do for the rest of their life. Personally speaking I am impressed with the construction program at Polk County High School. The students are building houses and gaining money for the program so students can build more than just a small bird house. The students are learning what its like to be an actual carpenter. The carpentry teacher started a summer program where the students can work and get paid by learning on the job.
    Read 6 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7 Total Schools
    • 2,254 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Union County Public Schools

    • School District
    • Monroe, NC
    • 114 reviews
    #3 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: I moved here 4 years ago going on my 5th year and it has been well. The difference from living in a bigger city to living in more of a rural area has been a jump especially in the lack of diversity. The school system has been great and I've definitely been set up for success here with numerous opportunities to be the best possible student I could be. Some schools in the county aren't as nice or are a lot older compared to the wealthier schools who have brand new everything creating a definite gap between them.
    Read 114 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 52 Total Schools
    • 41,741 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  4. Elkin City Schools

    • School District
    • Elkin, NC
    • 6 reviews
    #4 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Junior: Elkin City School connects with Surry Community College and gives students an opportunity to attend college courses while attending high school courses, they also provide very excellent teachers. However, there is very little clubs and sports offered at this school.
    Read 6 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3 Total Schools
    • 1,193 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  5. Asheville City Schools

    • School District
    • Asheville, NC
    • 18 reviews
    #5 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: Asheville city schools is the probably one of the better schools districts in the county. I wasn't living in the district and had to pay to be able to go to Asheville High. But I knew that that school was much better than the high school I was suppose to go to. I got a much better education, was able to stay with the students I had gone to middle school with, and overall a better high school experience. There are clubs for everyone, they give students the option to explore trade courses and college courses, and were good with handling all students. They made sure everyone got a fair shot and trying what they wanted and making sure everyone had the resources they needed. Overall would recommend.
    Read 18 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 4,558 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Dare County Schools

    • School District
    • Nags Head, NC
    • 11 reviews
    #6 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: The school system is very good about making everybody feel comfortable and safe. They constantly find ways to compromise with the needs of each student, parent and staff member. I moved into this school system my sophomore year after attending the same school system for almost 10 years and the staff and administration made me feel so welcomed. Coming from such a different environment I was overwhelmed and they definitely made it a little easier. Teacher generally push students to exceed to their fullest potential and be successful.
    Read 11 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 11 Total Schools
    • 5,124 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  9. Carteret County Public Schools

    • School District
    • Beaufort, NC
    • 17 reviews
    #7 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Junior: I have had excellent experiences at every level of schooling with Carteret County Schools. Now in my Junior year of high school, I feel that my education has been and continues to be academically rigorous and socially satisfying. There are numerous opportunities to become involved outside of academics that enhance my overall experience. I know that I am ready for a successful college experience and career because of my foundation with Carteret County Schools.
    Read 17 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 17 Total Schools
    • 8,404 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Mooresville Graded School District

    • School District
    • Mooresville, NC
    • 21 reviews
    #8 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: We moved here in 2010 from the west coast. I was in the 3rd grade at the time. The change was difficult at first, but the teachers made me feel welcome. I made friends quickly, and started to get involved in baseball and basketball though the Mooresville Rec.

    I feel very confident that the schools and the positive environment they provide have helped me become who I am today. I have always struggled with self confidence/worth, from a young age. Now as I go through my senior year I feel that I know who I am and what I’m capable of.

    The teachers at Mooresville High School especially have always been very supportive, and great at helping me reach my full potential.
    I just received my acceptance letter to Liberty University a couple days ago! I would have never thought this was possible if not for my teachers.

    I’ll always be greatful for all they have helped me accomplish.
    Read 21 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 6,101 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  11. Wake County Schools

    • School District
    • Cary, NC
    • 344 reviews
    #9 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: Wake County Public School System is a great county that prepares students for college readiness, as well as our future career. Resources come at an abundance in Wake County Schools, providing a diverse amount of clubs that represent culture, nationality, personality, academics, and interest. My personal experience in this school system has been great as I feel more than prepared for college and its challenges. I feel that everyone has an opportunity to get the right exposure through their classes, as well as through clubs and community service. Being a county that is heavily involved in its community helps to encourage all students to develop a caring, loving, and giving traits to help those in and outside of the community.
    Read 344 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 177 Total Schools
    • 160,367 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Watauga County Schools

    • School District
    • Boone, NC
    • 9 reviews
    #10 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: During my three year attendance at Watuaga High School, I found a true family. This was something that I had not know prior to moving into this school system. During my time I was apart of the drama, music, and art programs all of which are amazing and lets the students grow as individuals and as a team. At Watauga High school athletics do play a major role, like most other high schools, however, Watuaga always seemed to be going in the right directions, and teacher coaches never showed favoritism to those playing sports versus those who didn't. Everyday I am grateful for my experience at Watauga, especially from the teachers and faculty at the school; all of which our outstanding and really try their hardest to engage students to help them move forward in their educational pursuits.
    Read 9 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10 Total Schools
    • 4,495 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  13. Orange County Schools

    • School District
    • Hillsborough, NC
    • 27 reviews
    #11 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: I went to Orange High School & graduated in 2012. I am now going to one of the top art colleges in the country in L.A., CA and excel in the writing programs here, unlike many of my peers here. I know this is largely because of my teachers from OHS who were patient with my learning disability and accommodating and took the time to help me succeed. At OHS, I had a high school experience that did NOT include the classic cliches of high school social experience. I am within an ethnic minority group in the U.S. and experienced acceptance and tolerance from nearly everyone in the school, and to me, that is a great thing to experience in the south. I know that the administration of this school has changed hands and that there are many new teachers, but my experience was one of nearly all of the teachers investing in their students and ethnic and cultural tolerance, acceptance, and diversity that stood out in a rural southern small town.
    Read 27 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13 Total Schools
    • 7,557 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Mount Airy City Schools

    • School District
    • Mount Airy, NC
    • 6 reviews
    #12 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Parent: Positive hometown feel and friendly staff at each school. There is a strong academic culture at each school with schools collaborating with each other to ensure student learning. There is a wide selection of extra-curricular activities and athletics that can meet the needs of every student.
    Read 6 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,624 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Newton Conover City Schools

    • School District
    • Newton, NC
    • 16 reviews
    #13 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Sophomore: I have had the best years of my life attending Newton-Conover High School. Now that I'm here, I couldn't imagine myself attending any other school. My teachers are great, I have many friends from all different backgrounds and have the opportunity to join many clubs. I know that I'm on the right path for college when I step through the doors every morning. I feel safe at my high school, knowing my peers and teachers have my back. Newton-Conover has Chromebooks in every room, which makes online learning super convenient. Not only does Newton-Conover provide a great academic environment, but also extracirrulars that build strong qualities to better individuals. I have made countless unforgettable memories playing soccer under the lights with friends by my side and my family in the stands. At Newton-Conover club members are expected to serve others in the community before we serve ourselves. Newton-Conover High School is where dreams can become a reality.
    Read 16 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7 Total Schools
    • 3,079 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Henderson County Schools

    • School District
    • Hendersonville, NC
    • 24 reviews
    #14 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Sophomore: When it comes to Henderson County schools, I would describe them as, well-maintained, high-achiving, and extremely diverse. I love almost all of the teachers! All of the teachers are extremely well educated, and very motivated to seeing the success and prosperity of their students! The only thing that I would change about this unique school system, is the amount of "life" education. It would be nice to learn how to fill out a check, balance a check book, apply for scholarships, buy a house, get a job, or fill out an important application. Otherwise, the Henderson County school system is extremely well organized, and extremely successful in all aspects of school (sociality, academics, athletics, etc...).
    Read 24 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 23 Total Schools
    • 13,487 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  17. Davie County Schools

    • School District
    • Mocksville, NC
    • 28 reviews
    #15 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: Overall, my experience with Davie County Schools has been a positive one. Most of the teachers are friendly and have interesting and engaging classes. The teachers, students, and staff are all welcoming. The cafeteria food is sub-par, but other amenities are available at the high school. The high school is lacking in academic clubs. However, there are community service clubs. Even though the arts department gets limited funding, the choral, musical theater, dance, and band programs are all very good. I would recommend going to Davie County Schools because the academics are above average with opportunities to take classes at the community college, take AP classes, and take classes online, the teachers want each and every one of their students to succeed, there are extracurricular activities available for students and athletes, and the overall atmosphere is welcoming.
    Read 28 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 12 Total Schools
    • 6,238 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  18. Yancey County Schools

    • School District
    • Burnsville, NC
    • 1 review
    #16 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Junior: I like Yancey County Schools because most of the teachers in the school system are highly devoted to there students well being. ALL of the teachers in Yancey County School want the kids to succeed. I love how the teachers and staff are so kind and they are willing to help me to the best of their ability.
    Read 1 Review

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 9 Total Schools
    • 2,215 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Chatham County Schools

    • School District
    • Pittsboro, NC
    • 19 reviews
    #17 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: My experience attending a Chatham County school has been great. I would like to see more diversity within the schools, and I believe some of the food should be changed but overall I can't complain about my schools!
    Read 19 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 18 Total Schools
    • 8,887 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  22. New Hanover County Schools

    • School District
    • Wilmington, NC
    • 47 reviews
    #18 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Parent: New Hanover County Schools have provided a great education for both of my daughters. There are many opportunities to participate in a variety of clubs, sports, and academic programs/clubs. The teachers and administrators have always been helpful and accommodating and great communicators. Teachers have been great providing any extra assistance academically with weekly hours for study groups and/or extra support. The school and district provide emails and phone calls to share information regarding our specific high school as well as local/regional school board information. We were thankfully able to attend our neighborhood school that we were not districted for by applying for an open choice placement. We have been very happy with New Hanover County Schools.
    Read 47 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 42 Total Schools
    • 26,391 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Lincoln County Schools

    • School District
    • Lincolnton, NC
    • 21 reviews
    #19 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: The teachers really care about the students, though the diversity throughout the school is lacking. The sports teams are also lacking, though the football team has dramatically improved.
    Read 21 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 24 Total Schools
    • 11,509 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  24. Buncombe County Schools

    • School District
    • Asheville, NC
    • 33 reviews
    #20 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Freshman: Buncombe County Schools is the most amazing county in North Carolina. I attend North Buncombe High School currently. I've been through all of the schools for North Buncombe, and every single one has made me feel so loved, wanted and appreciated. The teachers and staff make you feel protected and mkae sure you have everything you need. You are taught in serveral different ways, depending on what you need and they are willing to work with what you need. Here, you are taught more than just academics. You are taught to love and care for one another. To protect, and serve. To be the best person you can be. Socially, academically, and mentally. I love North Buncombe and Buncombe County, so much. We are like family here . <3
    Read 33 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 44 Total Schools
    • 24,321 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  25. Surry County Schools

    • School District
    • Dobson, NC
    • 20 reviews
    #21 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: Surry County Schools is outstanding when it comes to student-teacher relationships; that is, teachers are almost always available to help students who are willing to communicate. However, the county administration is very hands off, and should be more involved with the body of students. Those who attend Surry County Schools have a right to know those who operate their school system!
    Read 20 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 19 Total Schools
    • 8,121 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Burke County Schools

    • School District
    • Morganton, NC
    • 21 reviews
    #22 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: I had a wonderful elementary experience. Caring, helpful teachers made me a successful student. I always felt nurtured and pushed to meet my potential. Middle school was a challenge for me. Being a student with an auditory processing disorder made things more difficult. As if middle school isn’t hard enough. Many teachers in middle school were not bought in to my modifications on my 504 plan. Therefore, I struggled with academics. Then, I began to give up and shut down. High school has been much better. Most teachers do what they can to help meet my modifications. My counselor has been supportive and more helpful than I could ever have hoped for. I am looking forward to graduation as a successful student.
    Read 21 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 27 Total Schools
    • 12,584 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Moore County Schools

    • School District
    • Carthage, NC
    • 11 reviews
    #23 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: Moore County Schools are amazing! I had the chance to interact with fellow classmates from other schools via club activities, sports, and more!
    Read 11 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 23 Total Schools
    • 12,764 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Macon County Schools

    • School District
    • Franklin, NC
    • 8 reviews
    #24 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: I wish we could have better clubs and activities, and instead of spending all of the budget on football maybe giving more to the academic clubs or foundations. Also, more funding for the other schools instead of just the high school would be greatly appreciated. Overall, very nice teachers and staff.
    Read 8 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 11 Total Schools
    • 4,358 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  29. Winston Salem/Forsyth County Schools

    • School District
    • Winston Salem, NC
    • 109 reviews
    #25 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: What I liked the most about Forsyth County Schools was the environment. School has always been a positive experience for me and I think part of the reason I enjoyed it so much has been because of how welcoming, accepting, and dedicated all my instructors have been. They always offered extra help if needed and taught with passion and a positive attitude. I believe what I would like to see changed if anything would be promoting more clubs and after school activities that get students equipped for college. Overall I really enjoyed attending Forsyth County schools and would recommend to everyone!
    Read 109 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 80 Total Schools
    • 55,228 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  30. Sponsored

    Duke School

    • Private School
    • Durham, NC
    • PK, K-8
    • 5 reviews

    Parent: My son attended Duke School from K-8. Kindergarten was the best, of course, but 1-5 was the elementary school I so wish I could have attended as a child. The project-based curriculum, and also the "special"s teachers, helped our child to flourish in ways I didn't think were possible. In middle school we began worrying about the lack of a GPA, but the children do not mind and apparently neither do some highly competitive high schools.

    Beware, openings can be scarce. Our son was wait-listed for Kindergarten (!). Fortunately they relented before we had to accept elsewhere. We should have applied earlier, for pre-K.
    Read 5 Reviews

    • 489 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  34. Review Your School 
  35. Sponsored

    Winterville Charter Academy

    • Public School
    • Winterville, NC
    • K-8
    • C+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 556 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  36. Sponsored

    British International School of Charlotte

    • Private School
    • Charlotte, NC
    • PK, K-12
    • 2 reviews

    Parent: My daughter joined BISC in the beginning of 3rd grade, she has gotten to know all of the students in the school in the past 5 years and loves the teachers and staff. They have helped her improve in her reading and writing, knowing just how to motivate her and they truly individualize their instruction to best fit the learning styles of each student. She gets to learn about the entire world and how to make an impact, even now as a student, she gets to make an impact through school organized activities. Wonderful exposure to the world around her and great experience for life!
    Read 2 Reviews

    • 125 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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