Skip to Main Content

2019 Best School Districts in North CarolinaAbout this List

The 2019 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 118
Best Districts
118 results

  1. Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools

    • School District
    • Chapel Hill, NC
    • 34
    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 34 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 20 Total Schools
    • 11,982 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  2. Watauga County Schools

    • School District
    • Boone, NC
    • 5
    2 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: The Watauga County school system assures that your child is learning in a safe and judgement free environment. The teachers are unbelievably dedicated to providing their knowledge in their everyday lessons. I, personally, would recommend this district to anybody!
    Read 5 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 10 Total Schools
    • 4,402 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  3. Union County Public Schools

    • School District
    • Monroe, NC
    • 101
    3 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: Students here get a fantastic education by teachers who genuinely care about the children they teach. This area is a family oriented county, with great parks, and excellent communities. It also has lower property taxes, better school ratings, and there is a better student-to-teacher ratio. UCPS is also a safe environment for the kids to grow. This county of schools also has fantastic extra curricular activities and opportunities for students, referring to preparations for college.
    Read 101 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 52 Total Schools
    • 42,147 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  4. Sponsored

    Winterville Charter Academy

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

  5. Polk County Schools

    • School District
    • Columbus, NC
    • 6
    4 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
    • 2,287 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  6. Wake County Schools

    • School District
    • Cary, NC
    • 263
    5 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: I like the fact that it was much better than schools overseas. Wake county schools have dedicated teachers that are nice and willing to help. In my previous school teachers hit students and not as many were dedicated to helping and working with students. Wake county schools also has more tech advancements than the other schools I've been to overseas. The other schools I've been to barely have any computers, air conditioning, or sanitation. Wake county schools are great places to learn. The best of all is that it's free to attend!
    Read 263 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 181 Total Schools
    • 157,761 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  7. Asheville City Schools

    • School District
    • Asheville, NC
    • 13
    6 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Junior: My overall experience attending schools in the Asheville City Schools district was/is great! I feel as though I'm respected by my peers and educators, and, as a Junior, I really love the opportunities that we have to take classes at the college across the street.
    Read 13 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 4,423 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  10. Elkin City Schools

    • School District
    • Elkin, NC
    • 6
    7 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
    • 1,221 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  11. Mooresville City Schools

    • School District
    • Mooresville, NC
    • 13
    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 13 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 8 Total Schools
    • 6,130 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  12. Henderson County Schools

    • School District
    • Hendersonville, NC
    • 20
    9 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 20 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 23 Total Schools
    • 13,668 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  14. Dare County Schools

    • School District
    • Nags Head, NC
    • 11
    10 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

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 11 Total Schools
    • 5,092 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  15. Orange County Schools

    • School District
    • Hillsborough, NC
    • 24
    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 24 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 13 Total Schools
    • 7,627 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  16. Newton Conover City Schools

    • School District
    • Newton, NC
    • 13
    12 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 13 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 7 Total Schools
    • 3,159 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  19. Cabarrus County Schools

    • School District
    • Concord, NC
    • 64
    13 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: The teachers are very supportive, and there are many opportunities for community service available through Cabarrus County Schools! However, I would like to see a greater emphasis on diversity and a decrease in bullying among students.
    Read 64 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 39 Total Schools
    • 31,404 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  20. Burke County Schools

    • School District
    • Morganton, NC
    • 15
    14 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: In the Burke County school system, parents are encouraged to be hands-on during the child's education. The family involvement is great and they even have nights dedicated to it. Many times throughout the school year, the parents are invited to school functions, to meet with teachers and more. Burke County prides itself on its family involvement. The administration aspect could be improved. Before attending the school that I do now, the administration office was very relaxed and you had to reach out to them for everything. Once they knew of the problem, they fixed it or dealt with it very fast, but that initial reach towards them was difficult.
    Read 15 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 27 Total Schools
    • 12,780 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  21. Davie County Schools

    • School District
    • Mocksville, NC
    • 22
    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 22 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 12 Total Schools
    • 6,317 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  22. Graham County Schools

    • School District
    • Robbinsville, NC
    • 2
    16 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: The teachers and faculty at Graham County Schools give 100% to their students and always put them first. They are continually improving and I would not change one thing about them.
    Read 2 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 3 Total Schools
    • 1,225 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  23. Mount Airy City Schools

    • School District
    • Mount Airy, NC
    • 4
    17 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Alum: Totally prepared for college! College was a breeze because I was so well prepared in my middle school and high school years at Mount Airy.
    Read 4 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 4 Total Schools
    • 1,633 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  26. Carteret County Public Schools

    • School District
    • Beaufort, NC
    • 15
    18 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 15 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 17 Total Schools
    • 8,472 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  27. Chatham County Schools

    • School District
    • Pittsboro, NC
    • 18
    19 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 18 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 18 Total Schools
    • 8,690 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  28. Caldwell County Schools

    • School District
    • Lenoir, NC
    • 23
    20 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: Being a student in Caldwell County has been a great experience. The close-knit environment is always welcoming and everyone you pass greets you nicely. Considering everyone knows everyone, it makes the schools more in tune with the students and their ability to teach in a great manner is on a whole different level than other places. Kids want to learn and what to do great in schools, I wouldn't change a thing!
    Read 23 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 26 Total Schools
    • 12,124 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  29. Buncombe County Schools

    • School District
    • Asheville, NC
    • 29
    21 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 29 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 44 Total Schools
    • 24,522 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  30. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

    • School District
    • Charlotte, NC
    • 288
    22 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Senior: Every teacher I have had while attending public schools in this district have been very nice, caring, and involved in each students education. Not only the teachers, but the school staff on these campuses in which they are also very caring towards student success and their future. Tutoring is offered weekly and other various programs to help students who need it so they can excel in classes they are having difficulty in. Overall, I have enjoyed attending school in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district!
    Read 288 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 170 Total Schools
    • 146,211 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  31. Review Your School

  32. Forsyth County Schools

    • School District
    • Winston Salem, NC
    • 86
    23 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 86 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 80 Total Schools
    • 54,984 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  33. Macon County Schools

    • School District
    • Franklin, NC
    • 8
    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
    • 4,397 Students
    View Nearby Homes

  34. Catawba County Schools

    • School District
    • Newton, NC
    • 24
    25 Best School Districts in North Carolina

    Parent: Academics are great! Good curriculum. Counselors need to be more involved with students and communications need to be open with parents regarding students grades. Should meet with seniors monthly.
    Read 24 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 28 Total Schools
    • 16,641 Students
    View Nearby Homes
  35. Sponsored

    BASIS Independent McLean

    • Private School
    • McLean, VA
    • PK, K-12
    • 9

    Parent: Our son is currently in the 2nd grade. He has been at the school for two years, and it has been a wonderful experience. The enthusiasm of the teachers, who are truly experts in the subjects they teach, is infectious. They consistently set high standards for all students at every stage of their academic career. This is a school that prioritizes academics and the students themselves; it is targeted to students with intellectual curiosity and a strong work ethic. We are very happy here!
    Read 9 Reviews

    • NG
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 375 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  36. Sponsored

    Norfolk Academy

    • Private School
    • Norfolk, VA
    • 1-12
    • 128

    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 128 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,203 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
    View Nearby Homes
  • 1 of 5