2023 Best Schools for the Arts in North Carolina

• Winston-salem, NC•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  7 reviews

Sophomore: At the University of North Carolina School of the Arts we receive intensive training in our areas of discipline in the arts. As a dance student, we perform professional level works and train upwards of seven hours each day dancing. The faculty care tenderly for their students' wellbeing, and personal progress report meetings allow each student to develop an excellent professional relationship with their professors, and they can receive individual feedback for their performance in class. The campus environment is a diverse and welcoming place for all students. Artists from around the world create together here and create meaningful bonds with each other during our creative processes. I feel like UNCSA has prepared me well for my career, and I am so appreciative to be a fighting pickle.... Read 7 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 275

• Student-teacher ratio 2:1

• Guilford County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  161 reviews

Junior: I love it here! there are great opportunities that are offered, that you won't find at a "normal" public high school you are district to. There are incredible artists here with amazing talents. The students are very well mannered and there are little disruptions in class if any. There are not as many class options as it is a small school, therefore not many AP class options. I've had really amazing teacher experiences and have also had teachers who I think are not so good at their job.... Read 161 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 335

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Asheville, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.85 out of 5  33 reviews

Senior: I liked the teachers, subjects, and administration at Odyssey Community School. They could definitely create more diversity within clubs and sports and there are a few negatives with this school. Some include the professionalism within some administration and the college readiness teacher. But overall it is a great school that offers so many opportunities. Additionally, one of the executives, Carly Penny, makes school activities so much fun! It is a safe haven and I feel comfortable and happy when going to school.... Read 33 reviews

• grade A

• Students 161

• Student-teacher ratio 6:1

• 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

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.3 out of 5  20 reviews

Parent: As a mainstream teacher, I sought for something other than public school for my own child. Her experience at EWS has put her right on track for college. The arts are integrated across the curriculum, and there is rigorous work in the High School akin to AP level coursework elsewhere. The faculty works together to help foster independent thinking and social responsibility, and they are perpetual learners themselves. As with any other method, Waldorf Education is not right for everyone, but it's worth checking out!... Read 20 reviews

• grade A

• Students 273

• Student-teacher ratio 8:1

• Durham Public Schools, NC•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  258 reviews

Senior: Durham School of the Arts is a school that encourages creative endeavors. I have taken a 3D art class, and two separate music classes during my time there. Many of the DSA staff are very friendly, and they help me out when I need help. I would appreciate cleaner bathrooms that are better maintained, along with more experienced substitute teachers and counselors.... Read 258 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,869

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Asheville, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  27 reviews

Parent: Our child is dyslexic. The Key School at Carolina Day changed our child’s life forever. The teachers, the tailored instruction, and pace of learning was everything our child desperately needed. She realized there are brilliant, dyslexic minds and she was surrounded by many other dyslexic children, just like herself. She wasn’t alone anymore. The teachers equipped my child with the tools she needed for academic success, but also social and emotional success. The Key School’s kinesthetic and auditory/visual learning techiniques coupled with their intentionally small class sizes and warm, nurturing environment was the exact prescription my child needed to heal, learn and grow. I’ve had multiple parents tell me recently that my child seems so “confident”. Seeing the day to day changes in my child’s growth in addition to hearing other’s observations confirm that sending her to the Key School was the best school-related decision I’ve ever made.... Read 27 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 600

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Guilford County Schools, NC•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4 out of 5  99 reviews

Middle School Student: Amazing school! Its so cultured and they have so many amazing opportunities for the students who go there, specifically in high school. It's very put together but falls a bit short when it comes to infrastructure.... Read 99 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 539

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Public School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  23 reviews

Senior: Longleaf School of the Arts is an amazing college preparatory school that has a large emphasis on the arts. The school is very diverse and accepting, teachers are great, and the people that attend are super nice. One of the main things I enjoy about the school is the EC program. I have a learning disability, and this school has had the best EC program out of the many schools I have attended over the years. This is such a good school and I would not want to go anywhere else.... Read 23 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 373

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Cumberland County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  128 reviews

Senior: I love Massey Hill Classical! I have been a student for four years and every single faculty member made me feel welcome right from the start. I would recommend this school to anyone who wants something different with their education. Massey Hill has smaller class sizes so you are able to get more individualized attention from your teachers than you would if you went to a standard high school. Massey is the home of the Pirates, and while we do not have our own sports teams with the exception of the basketball and volleyball teams who compete yearly against Reid Ross Classical in the "Classical Challenge", you are still able to participate in sports of your choice at the school whose district you live in. Very few people are unhappy at Massey because of the variety of programs, clubs, and classes that are offered each year. If you go to Massey, you will always be proud to be a Pirate.... Read 128 reviews

• grade A

• Students 247

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Winston Salem, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.76 out of 5  21 reviews

Works Here: Winston-Salem Christian School is a wonderful community of people who love the Lord and people. It is an excellent school that focuses on academics, diversity, sports, and relationship. It is a family of people who come together to uplift students and further their education through dedication, prayer, and support. On top of it, students are receiving a biblical-based foundation. Proverbs 22:6 says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This is exactly what we do here! Everyone at Winston-Salem Christian truly cares about you! WSCS is exactly what I prayed for and needed. Becoming a part of the community and family here is the best decision I made! The staff, teachers, administration, and students are all incredible. I couldn't have asked to join a better team!... Read 21 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 376

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Winston Salem/Forsyth County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  383 reviews

Senior: Reynolds High School has a diverse community and student body. I transferred schools mid-year, however, the process of integrating into a new environment and with the curriculum was moderately easy! I had the support of my counselor and my teachers... Read 383 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 1,638

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Hickory City Schools, NC•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  24 reviews

Parent: My experience at Hickory Career and Arts Magnet High School is that it has been a fairly enjoyable experience, and I've been subjected and introduced to many great opportunities and people both teacher and student wise. Due to this school providing the opportunity to take college level classes with its academy programs, I've been able to look into specific careers that peak my interest and learn first hand what those careers entail. I was intrigued by their graphic design and photography academy which is what essentially led to my application to the school, and I'm currently enrolled into two photography classes this semester that will give me college credit. These classes have really prepared me for college life and allow me to know what to expect. I've also had amazing teachers that are invested in my future and have done as much possible to ensure I am successful. The friends I've made here will last a lifetime as well and I wouldn't have asked for a better high school experience.... Read 24 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 206

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Wilmington, NC•

• Public School•

• 6-11

• •
  Rating 4.75 out of 5  4 reviews

Parent: The ratings really don't give you a full picture of this school unfortunately. The faculty at this school is fully committed to making a significant change in girls' lives from how they are educated, their self-esteem and health. Our society's girls face so many challenges these days. The faculty is creating an environment where young ladies are confidant, opinionated and believe that they will make a positive impact on their communities and the world. I would truly recommend you visit the school.... Read 4 reviews

• grade B

• Students 296

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Raleigh, NC•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.88 out of 5  17 reviews

Parent: Our family is impressed with the way this school program is uniquely tailored to meet the educational needs of young men. They offer a comprehensive program that fosters their natural curiosity as a focal point of learning, this creates student-led learning and interest in the subjects being taught. They also provide for physical activity throughout the day, improving the mental alertness and readiness of the students. The teachers are highly engaged with the students and go above and beyond to meet each student's needs and make the material interesting. Importantly, each aspect of the school is effectively tied in with the honor code and results in very well rounded student growth to prepare these young men to be successful men when they graduate and move on to the next phase of their life. We feel that the school is in a caring partnership with our family to prepare our son for each step in this important time in his life (high school).... Read 17 reviews

• grade B

• Students 62

• Student-teacher ratio 5:1

• Dare County Schools, NC•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  12 reviews

Senior: Cape Hatteras Secondary School has more opportunities than expected for its students considering its small size, but still falls short in preparing those enrolled for college. While there is a guidance counselor and two employees specifically for student to reference if they have questions about anything during the application process, these advisors are shared with the two other high schools in Dare County. There is a bit of pressure for students to shoot low and to stay instate. However, dual enrollment classes through the College of the Albermarle are avalaoble to CHSS students in the junior or senior years of high school. In addition to COA classes, students may take online courses via North Carolina Virtual Public Schools and Apex Learning, which thankfully bridges the gap between this rural institution and more urban ones for many classes.... Read 12 reviews

• grade B

• Students 345

• Student-teacher ratio 10:1

• Matthews, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.19 out of 5  47 reviews

Alum: Arborbrook Christian Academy changed my life. Before attending Arborbrook, I went to public school where I struggled with reading and writing. Teachers did not seem to care and my grades started to plummet. That is when my parents decided to send me to Arborbrook. The small classroom sizes and incredible teachers helped me to understand what I was struggling with so that my grades could excel! After graduating, I can say full heartedly that I am prepared for college. Arborbrook has an outstanding faculty and staff and I have made friendships here that will last forever.... Read 47 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 261

• Student-teacher ratio 7:1

• Saxapahaw, NC•

• Public School•

• 4-12

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  73 reviews

Senior: Hawbridge has outstanding teachers that provide a unique, engaging curriculum for their students. ¨Place-based education¨ allows the natural areas and businesses surrounding the school to be used as a learning resource. Things like sports, electives, and clubs continue to improve each year. This school is not for everyone -- some students thrive better in the traditional public school setting-- but I personally have had a very positive experience as a Hawbridge student. I look forward to seeing how the school grows with the addition of a new building.... Read 73 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 321

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Huntersville, NC•

• Private School•

• K-12

• •
  Rating 4.82 out of 5  17 reviews

Parent: Lake Norman Christian School gives its kids a quality, faith-based education in a caring and encouraging environment. The staff and teachers are wonderful. Our daughter's teacher is absolutely amazing and truly loves her students. The level of caring projects from everyone we encounter there. Equally important is the rigor of their curriculum and the ability to provide smaller class sizes for its students. A great environment all the way around!... Read 17 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 191

• Student-teacher ratio 12:1

• Polk County Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.52 out of 5  21 reviews

Senior: I love it at Polk County Early College. You get to work at your own pace for many things and everyone here is very friendly. Many classes you take will be online through Isothermal and that is a challenge for some people. However, the teachers always welcome one on one help if you need it. It is a tight group and you become close to almost everyone at this school. One thing that deters people away from here is that there are no school sports available to students here.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 54

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Durham Public Schools, NC•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  34 reviews

Senior: SCS is the best place to learn. As a parent you want your child to be in an environment where the are allowed the room to blossom into whatever flower or plant they like, and I would say that SCS does the best and on target point of not only enhancing the educational growth of students but the mental growth as well and the teachers here come with a different agenda. They make themselves available to students through zoom and in-person office hours. If I had children there would be no doubt in my mind that SCS would be my #1 pick. The class sizes are smaller to create an intimate learning setting. I loved every experience Ive had at SCS and even though were a small school were a big community and I wouldn't trade any of them for the world.... Read 34 reviews

• grade B minus

• Students 655

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Winterville, NC•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  13 reviews

Parent: Great school that provides an amazing education. CCS has a very close nit student body. Athletics has improved with state champions in cross country and swimming. I do like for other sports like basketball, soccer and volleyball kids do get a chance to play! It is a wonderful school and so glad to be a part of CCS.... Read 13 reviews

• grade B+

• Students 380

• Student-teacher ratio 11:1

• Asheville City Schools, NC•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  67 reviews

Senior: SILSA is a wonderful school in many ways. I have met some of my closest friends, engaged in deep, thought-provoking education, and explored various aspects of my identity. I would highly recommend this school to everyone who is curious, open-minded, and kind. The only negative side is that the administration, especially the Asheville City Schools administration in general, is not responsive to the needs of the students and families.... Read 67 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 338

• Student-teacher ratio 24:1