Choosing the right school is a crucial decision that can shape your future. For those considering options near North Carolina, there are several top-notch institutions that offer excellent education with lots of opportunities.
This article highlights the top 10 best schools near North Carolina, focusing on what makes each one stand out. We’ll discuss key points such as the school’s location, a brief overview with general information, the notable programs, rankings and strengths, key facilities in the school and their extracurriculars like clubs, organizations or community engagement, so that whether you’re looking for strong academics, vibrant campus life, or specialized programs, you can find schools that have something to offer.
Schools in North Carolina are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college.
Read on to discover the best choices for your educational journey if you plan to choose a school near North Carolina.
Top 10 Best Schools Near North Carolina
1. The Early College at Guilford
The Early College at Guilfords is one of the top 10 best schools near North Carolina. The school is located at 5608 West Friendly Avenue, Greensboro, North Carolina.
Guilfords is ranked as the top public high school in North Carolina and #16 in national high schools, with approximately 200 students in grades 9–12 and a student-teacher ratio of 23:1.
It was the first early college high school in North Carolina where high school students could graduate with two years of college credit from Guilford College.
In terms of academics, Guilford students in the 9th and 10th grades take honors and advanced placement courses, while students in the 11th and 12th grades take college courses with undergraduates taught by college professors.
For extracurriculars, students at Guilford are encouraged to take service learning and can start
Clubs, organizations, and community engagement. Though the school does not have athletic teams, students can join teams in their attendance zone or other competition clubs like Chess, Code, Economic Challenge, Math, Quiz Bowl, Robotics Competition and Science Olympiad; Interest clubs like Data Analytics and Cybersecurity, Mental Health Advocacy, Publishing and Theater; and service clubs like ECG Active, Environmental, Interact, Red Cross, Student Human Relations Coalition and Campus Life.
2. STEM Early College at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University
STEM Early College at N.C. is located at 402 Laurel Street, Greensboro, North Carolina.
STEM Early College at N.C. A&T is one of the top schools near North Carolina, ranked second within North Carolina and #77 in the national ranking.
It has 192 students in grades 9–12, with a student-teacher ratio of 21 to 1. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams that promote completion of North Carolina high school graduation requirements in two years, followed by two full years of college courses. Their courses for college classes are focused on science, technology, Engineering and mathematics, as well as extracurriculars.
3. Onslow Early College
Onslow Early College is one of the top 10 best schools near North Carolina. The school is located at 444 Western Blvd., Jacksonville, North Carolina.
Onslow has approximately 186 students in grades 9–13, with a student-teacher ratio of 29:1.
In terms of academics, the school maintains a strong academic rate, focusing on preparing students for college through rigorous coursework and supportive learning environments. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. Though statistics show that 29% of students are economically disadvantaged, Onslow Early College is 1 of 9 high schools in Onslow County Schools.
It also offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students to participate in, which can include clubs, sports, and community service opportunities.
4. Raleigh Charter High School
Raleigh Charter High School is located at 1307 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, North Carolina
The school is ranked fourth within North Carolina. Raleigh has about 564 students in grades 9–12 with a student-teacher ratio of 13:1.
Raleigh Charter High School is known for its strong academic programs that emphasize critical thinking and a deep understanding of subjects. Students are encouraged to engage in Advanced Placement Coursework and exams that prepare them for college and future careers. The AP participation rate at Raleigh Charter High School is 92%.
The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, and arts programs, which help students explore their interests and develop a well-rounded skill set outside the classroom.
5. Woods Charter School
Woods Charter is one of the top 10 best schools near North Carolina, ranked fifth within North Carolina. Wood Charter is located at 160 Woodland Grove Ln., Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
It admits students from K–12 and consistently achieves high academic standards, often excelling in state and national assessments. However, students from grade 9 to 12 have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate at Woods Charter is 96%.
In terms of extracurriculars, Woods Charter offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests. Students can get involved in sports, arts, and various clubs, which give them opportunities to explore their passions and develop new skills.
6. Wake NCSU STEM Early College High School
Wake NCSU STEM Early College High School is located at 2205 Walnut Street, Cary, North Carolina. As one of the top 10 best schools near North Carolina, it is ranked as the sixth best school in North Carolina.
Wake NCSU STEM Early College High School focuses on preparing students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The school offers a rigorous academic program that emphasizes Advanced Placement coursework and exams in these subjects, often including college-level classes, to give students a head start in their higher education and future careers. The AP participation rate at Wake NCSU STEM Early College High School is 100%.
Outside the classroom, students have various opportunities to engage in activities related to STEM and beyond. These extracurriculars help students apply what they learn in class to build valuable skills for their future.
7. Philip J. Weaver Ed Center
Philip J. Weaver Ed Center is one of the top 10 best schools near North Carolina. It is located at 300 South Spring Street, Greensboro, North Carolina and ranked seventh within North Carolina.
The school runs classes from grades 9–12 with a student-teacher ratio of 8:1.
Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate at Philip J. Weaver Ed Center is 90%. They also promote extracurriculars that focus on student’s areas of interest and give them a well-rounded learning experience.
8. Discovery High School
Discovery High School is located at 301 West 18th St., Newton, North Carolina and is ranked eighth as one of the top 10 best schools near North Carolina and first in Hickory, NC, Metro Area High.
Classes start at grades 9–12, with the student-teacher ratio at 22:1. It is one of the two high schools in the district, Newton Conover City Schools, offering a college preparatory 9–12 education through a project-based curriculum. It is a 1:1 school where all students are expected to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate at Discovery High School is 100%.
8. Green Level High School
Green Level High is the ninth school on the list of top 10 best schools near North Carolina. The school is located at 7600 Roberts Rd., Cary, North Carolina. It is also ranked third in Raleigh, NC Metro Area High.
Classes at Green Level High are from Grades 9–12, with Student-Teacher Ratio of 20:1. They are dedicated to cultivating an equitable, inclusive, and culturally responsive environment that promotes self-discovery and participation.
Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate at Green Level High is 87% and 6% of students are economically disadvantaged.
For extracurriculars, Green Level High has several co-ed sports teams, clubs and organizations, including a choral group and a school publication.
10. Highland School of Technology
Highland School of Technology is ranked tenth among the top 10 best schools near North Carolina. The school is located at 1600 N Morris Street, Gastonia, North Carolina.
Classes are from grades 9–12, with a student-teacher ratio of 13:1. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. They complete courses in one of three academies: Health Sciences, Business, Legal, and Information Sciences, Manufacturing/Engineering Technology and Graphics. They are also challenged to think critically so they are ready for success beyond graduation in college, high-demand careers, and life. The AP participation rate at Highland School of Technology is 70%.
The school also offers extracurriculars such as sports, social clubs and vocational training.
Conclusion
In conclusion, North Carolina boasts a range of outstanding schools, each offering unique strengths and opportunities. Whether you’re seeking academic excellence, a strong extracurricular program, or a supportive community, these top 10 schools provide excellent options. Choosing the right school can make a significant difference in a child’s future, so consider these top picks when making your decision.
