For the 2026-27 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 1,091 students in Nicholas County, KY.
The top-ranked public schools in Nicholas County, KY are Nicholas County High School and Nicholas County Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Nicholas County, KY public schools have an average math proficiency score of 31% (versus the Kentucky public school average of 39%), and reading proficiency score of 37% (versus the 45% statewide average). Schools in Nicholas County have an average ranking of 2/10, which is in the bottom 50% of Kentucky public schools.
Minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Kentucky public school average of 29% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Nicholas County (2026-27)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Nicholas County High School
(Math: 36% | Reading: 39%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
103 School Dr
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3780
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3780
Gr: 7-12 | 435 students Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 7%
Rank: #22.
Nicholas County Elementary School
(Math: 26% | Reading: 35%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
133 School Drive
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3785
Carlisle, KY 40311
(859) 289-3785
Gr: PK-6 | 645 students Student-teacher ratio: 18:1 Minority enrollment: 8%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Nicholas County, KY?
The top-ranked public schools in Nicholas County, KY include Nicholas County High School and Nicholas County Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in Nicholas County?
2 public schools are located in Nicholas County.
What is the racial composition of students in Nicholas County?
Nicholas County public schools minority enrollment is 7% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Kentucky public schools average of 29% (majority Black and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
How to Evaluate School Safety Beyond Headlines
Learn how to evaluate school safety beyond headlines by examining reliable data, school climate, emergency planning, bullying prevention, communication, student experiences, and everyday security practices before choosing a school.
Choosing a Public School for Executive Function Needs
Learn how to choose a public school for a child with executive function challenges by evaluating routines, classroom support, organization, accommodations, communication, transitions, and special education services before enrollment.
What School Climate Surveys Tell You Before Enrolling
Learn how school climate surveys reveal student safety, belonging, relationships, engagement, and support, and how families can interpret results carefully before choosing a public school for their child today.